Asbury Director Writes Parenting Guide Book

November 8, 2023

Over the summer, Director of Conference Services Christine Kiel Endicott self-published a book to help parents build trust and healthy relationships with their children. With the book cover designed by Paulette Black ’22, “Be a Parent: Bonding and Building for a Lifetime” is a “simple yet inspiring self-help parenting guide for bonding with your children, building productive citizens and learning how to be consistent, intentional, constructive, involved, present and honest as you navigate the world of parenthood.” The book is available on Amazon and at Fitch’s IGA in Wilmore: https://www.amazon.com/Be-Parent-Bonding-Building-Lifetime/dp/B0CDNF59H1.

“My kids asked me to write this book,” Endicott said. “For four years, I gathered and wrote information that I wanted to share. When my son moved to Colorado, I knew that it was time to write it, so I started the outline.”

As a mother of three and grandmother of one, Endicott has been married for 30 years and lives in Wilmore with her husband, Jay. She wrote her book for young parents who are starting families.

“Consistency is one of the most important things to parents of any age,” she said. “It is calming to know expectations, which can give children a sense of security. Teaching children when they are young builds for the future.”

Readers praise Endicott’s book, with one saying: “This was like a field guide intertwined with nuggets of wisdom. It encouraged me on the years of parenting that I have under my belt… and then to anticipate the ones to come.” Another reader said: “I love how these chapters are practical! I don’t feel overwhelmed by the advice because it isn’t too lengthy, and it gives a great overview of helpful parenting strategies and ideas.”

“What has surprised me most is the incredible feedback from parents (who already have raised their children) who read my book,” she said. “One couple read it aloud as they traveled and talked about their experience raising their kids. They said my book helped to affirm their parenting.”

The book offers supportive approaches for audiences of various backgrounds.

“Although I mention the positive integration of faith within families, my book remains relevant and helpful for those who practice faith and those who do not,” Endicott said.

Upcoming projects for Endicott include an audiobook version (to be recorded this winter) and a plan to implement workshops that cover topics such as chores, discipline, faith, and personality types.

“The Lord inspired so much of the content in this book, a lot of which still surprises me,” she said. “I am thankful to have sold 120 copies so far, and I’m excited to see what the Lord has in store for the future.”