I’m delighted to welcome acclaimed author Mary DeMuth to Story Matters today. Mary is a multi-faceted writer with several novels, a memoir, and many non-fiction books to her name. She’s also just released Around the Word in 60 Seconds, a devotional for teens, which she wrote in partnership with the influential youth ministry iShine. You can visit Mary online at MaryDeMuth.com.

Mary, tell us a bit about yourself: your family, your writer’s journey, other interests.

I’m a wife of one (thankfully!) of 22 years and the mom of three teens, one in college. I’m training for my first half marathon in December. I blog and write a lot of books, which doesn’t leave a lot of extra time, though when I can I take photos and do some graphic design. I also love to cook, garden and redecorate with what I already have.

How do you balance writing with your responsibilities as a mother?

I try to keep a schedule and a routine. I work while my kids are in school and try to take time off when they’re home. I set goals. I work hard. But I try to keep weekends free for them.

You already have multiple novels, non-fiction books and a memoir to your name. Why was it important for you to write this book, a devotional for tweens?

When my kids were in their tween years, there really wasn’t a lot out there for kids straddling the border between kid and teen. This is my answer to that. I’m grateful for iShine for inviting me along.

Sounds good. Tell us more!