Jonathan Strasner - Author, "Would God Use Someone Like Me?"
Jonathan was attending a men's breakfast at church when the pastor leading the service stressed to the group how important it is for children to be uplifted in the world because of all of the negative messaging aimed at them. As he sat there listening, Jonathan felt the Holy Spirit tell him to do something about it. Thus was born the idea of Jonathan's book "Would God Use Someone Like Me?"
Jonathan had never written a book before and began to research ways to have a book published. The options in the market now range from the big name publishers (who almost exclusively publish celebrities' books), hybrid publishers (that charge you to publish your book and then make money off of it), or going the self-publishing route. Jonathan chose the latter, and formed His Purpose Publishing to publish his book and provide a platform to other independent Christian authors to publish their work.
Jonathan's background is in Finance, Risk Management, and Operations. He has learned a lot in the past few years and prays that regardless of where HPP leads, God would be glorified and He would use the books published to draw His children (young and old) closer to Him.
Jonathan is married to Sharon and they have four children.
Jonathan can be reached through email [email protected] or on the His Purpose Publishing facebook page.
Havilah Racette - Author and Illustrator, "Love Is..." and Illustrator, "Would God Use Someone Like Me?"
Havilah Racette is an illustrator through and through. She enjoys the simplicity of holding a creative tool and putting images onto paper, as well as the ability to communicate meaningful messages through drawing. From making a homemade birthday card for a family member to being commissioned to paint on a large canvas, Havilah cherishes the vision and process of being an artist.
Havilah began illustrating from a young age, her love for animals driving her to sketch little characters on the corner of any piece of paper within reach. Her desire to draw continued into adulthood, culminating in her pursuing and receiving a bachelor’s degree in Illustration from Framingham State University.
Havilah finds joy in helping others bring their ideas to life through beautiful pictures. A mother of six, she continues to pursue as many illustrative avenues as possible. These include illustrating coloring books, designing puzzles, painting murals, contributing to educational textbooks, and, her personal favorite, illustrating four published children’s books (including one she wrote)!
Much of Havilah’s inspiration to be creative comes from a desire to mirror the Lord Jesus who is the Master Creator. Additionally, Havilah loves to be outdoors, exploring the New England forests with her husband Aaron and their growing family of six children. The sights and smells of children playing in beautiful settings and landscapes provide new inspiration for her artwork.
As she continues to illustrate, Havilah hopes that all her work is used to glorify Christ Jesus and to show His love to others.