This Oregon-based author and journalist specializes in creating resources that help young Christians navigate spiritual growth through engagement with the natural world. Her work across devotionals, curricula, and novels establishes her as a leading voice in faith-based children's literature.
Susan Maas has cultivated a unique niche at the intersection of faith formation and youth education over her three-decade career. Her journey began with nature-inspired childhood essays in Oregon, evolving into professional devotionals for publications like The Upper Room before establishing herself as a middle-grade novelist specializing in Christian coming-of-age stories.
In this 2016 guest post for Cynthia Leitich Smith's writing blog, Maas articulates her philosophy of subtle spiritual messaging in children's literature. Through analysis of her novel Picture Imperfect, she demonstrates how mentor characters can model Christian values through actions rather than sermons. The piece became required reading in six Christian writing programs, praised for its balance of craft advice and theological sensitivity.
"Faith themes can work in both the religious and general markets, although emphasis will differ. Even nonreligious books can add diversity by including children of different faiths, whose religion is a normal part of their lives."
Maas's devotional series for The Upper Room reimagined spiritual reflection for homeschool families. Each installment paired nature observations with practical faith applications, like comparing mycelium networks to church communities. The 2012-2014 series saw 83% reader retention rates according to publisher surveys.
Her 2021 novel integrates ornithology with ethical dilemmas when protagonist Abbie confronts habitat destruction. The Oregon Christian Writers Conference highlighted its innovative use of field journal entries as chapter epigraphs, creating what one reviewer called "a field guide to faithful stewardship."
Maas prioritizes stories where environmental awareness and spiritual growth intertwine organically. Successful pitches reference her use of specific ecosystems as characters - like the Douglas fir stands in Abbie's Woods. Avoid allegorical approaches favoring literal connections between creation care and Christian duty.
Her work consistently features knowledge exchange between youth and elders outside traditional classroom settings. Pitch ideas showcasing mentorship through shared outdoor activities or intergenerational projects, mirroring the fishing scenes in Picture Imperfect where practical skills convey spiritual truths.
With 12 years' experience homeschooling her sons, Maas seeks reporting on alternative education models that foster both academic rigor and spiritual development. Highlight programs integrating STEM learning with service projects or outdoor worship practices.
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