Christian Author Writes Alphabet Book for Children

Suzanne Stamboulieh

Christian author Suzanne Stamboulieh recently penned a fabulous alphabet book that helps children learn Bible verses.

“A to Z with the One True King” is receiving rave reviews across the USA and around the globe. That’s got to be pleasing, a real blessing, to the Mississippi College graduate.

“Christian literature for children is something I strongly believe in,” Suzanne says. The energetic Madison mom is busy raising a young daughter, while working on her third book. Her second book, the author said, “is a fantastic way for parents to teach their children the alphabet tied to a specific Bible verse. It also has colorful illustrations.”

So far, so good for her newest literary creation. It was featured with an excellent review in the “American Family Association Journal” in March. A nice write-up also appeared in “The Jerusalem Post” Christian edition in Israel.

The Mississippian pitched the alphabet book to the media in New York City, Dallas, Chicago, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C and as far away as Australia, Canada, and New England. Several schools and churches across the nation purchased copies. But she’s just as interested about reaching parents, grandparents and children back home in the Magnolia State. “Hometown Madison” magazine did a terrific piece to help boost book sales last year.

Pretty heady stuff for Suzanne Stamboulieh. Away from media interviews and writing, the homeschooling mom and her husband, Stephen, often read to their four and one-half-year-old daughter, Scarlett. Many of the literary gems are purchased for a mere quarter at Goodwill stores.

Her alma mater, Baptist-affiliated Mississippi College, played a major role in Suzanne’s spiritual and literary journey. “Academically speaking, the classes were taught from a Biblical world view that helped me see the world the way Christ intended,” she said.

“Whether it was the Christian faculty or fellow students, I was surrounded by people who not only believed in God, but encouraged me to live a better life. I am every so grateful for that.”

An MC psychology graduate, Suzanne earned her master’s on the Clinton campus in marriage and family counseling. The two MC degrees opened doors for her to work as a therapist at Summit Counseling of First Baptist Church Jackson.

But in order to spend more time with Scarlett and be a stay-at-home mom, she pursued the idea of publishing a book. To fund her publishing company, Suzanne saved, sold personal belongings and, cut corners. Garage sales were frequent and proved to be quite a money-maker. She added to profit margins by traveling around her neighborhood and picking up valuable items or “trash” on curbs.

“God has certainly provided!,” says the MC grad who lived most of her growing up years in Southaven and Brandon.

Her first book, “Scarlett Gray Joins the Parade” gave the budding author her start. Her newest book, “A Fruitful Spirit” is due to be published in late August or early Fall. Scarlett Gray Publishing, LLC is the name of her Christian publishing company.

Too often, children grow up exposed to inappropriate language and negative images in modern media outlets. It’s hard to avoid on TV commercials, on kiddie shows and PG-rated movies. There won’t be words like “stupid” or “dumb” or “hate” in any of her books. That’s for a reason.

As Christian parents, Stamboulieh said, “It is incumbent upon us to work with watchful eyes, caring hearts and discerning minds to keep our children on godly paths.”

The Memphis-born author is considering the idea of expanding her brand to include children’s toys in the future.

What about the last name Stamboulieh? It’s definitely a bit unusual in Mississippi. Her maiden name was Suzanne Shelton. “I married into a Greek family.”