🏕️ Second Chances, Shoal Creek, and the Still Small Voice: A New Book from My Heart

🏕️ This story speaks of Jesus!

by Jennifer Greene-Sullivan

There’s something sacred about stories that come quietly—those whispered by the Holy Spirit in the stillness of a Wednesday night or scribbled in the margins of a well-loved Bible Study notebook. My newest children’s book, Second Chances at Shoal Creek, is one of those stories.

📖 The Inspiration Behind the Book

The idea for Cooper’s Campground first came to me in 2021, as a tribute to Chris’ grandfather Bob. His middle name was Cooper, and I remember thinking how sweet it would be to create a peaceful, loving place in his honor—a fictional campground where children could experience fun, friendship, and the love of Jesus.

Fast forward to a family visit to Creekside Campground on Shoal Creek in North West Alabama. That place stirred something deep in me.

It was serene and beautiful, nestled by the creek and surrounded by God’s creation. I found myself dreaming again—wondering if Cooper’s Campground needed a new home along the banks of Shoal Creek. Creekside was such a holy place to visit that I knew I had to let it adapt my ideas for Cooper’s Campground.

✍️ A Nudge from the Holy Spirit

One Wednesday night, after a powerful Bible study on Nehemiah and the rebuilding of the wall, I lingered in the sanctuary, notebook in hand. That night, something shifted. I wasn’t thinking about plot or pacing—I was simply listening.

And that’s when it happened.

The entire synopsis for this book flowed onto the page. A boy named Paul, brokenhearted and in foster care. A friend named Cooper, ready to share the hope of Jesus. And a creek—clear and cool—where a beautiful salvation and baptism would unfold.

It wasn’t just a book idea. It was a spiritual assignment.

❤️ Why This Story Matters

Second Chances at Shoal Creek is about healing. It’s about the power of kindness, friendship, and a Savior who still changes hearts today. It’s for every child who has ever felt lost, and for every family who needs a reminder that Jesus makes all things brand new.

I believe in this story because I didn’t write it alone. The Holy Spirit gave me the words. I just said yes.

📚 Coming Soon

I’ll be sharing more soon—illustrations, read-aloud previews, and ways you can use this book in your home or ministry. Until then, I hope you’ll pray with me that Second Chances at Shoal Creek finds its way into the hands and hearts of children who need to know that Jesus is still in the business of giving second chances.

📖Scripture References for the Book

2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV)

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
– Used as the central theme of the book, highlighting transformation and new beginnings.

Psalm 147:3 (NIV)

“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”
– Quoted by Cooper when comforting Paul, emphasizing God’s care for emotional pain.

John 15:13 (Implied in the Reader’s Guide)

“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”
– Referenced in the Reader’s Guide under Scripture Reflections to draw a parallel between Cooper’s loving friendship and Jesus’ sacrificial love.

Stay tuned, friends. This one’s special.

With love and gratitude,
Jennifer Greene-Sullivan

🙏 Prayer for Young Readers

Dear Jesus,
Thank You for every precious child who will hold this book in his or her hands.
May they see themselves in Cooper’s kindness, in Paul’s questions, and in the promise of Your love. When their hearts feel heavy, remind them that You are near—healing, listening, and loving without end. Plant seeds of faith as they read. Let joy rise up in the quiet moments, and may the pages whisper truth:
You give second chances.
You are the friend who never leaves.
You make all things brand new.
Jesus, in Your holy name we pray, Amen.

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