Question 1

What age is this series for?

Accepted Answer

This series is written for ages 8-12. Each book is between a 4.1 and 4.9 reading level.

Question 2

Do you have to read the books in order?

Accepted Answer

While the books are written in a way where they can be read out of order, as the author, I recommend reading them in order because of the intention behind the series. Andie, her Sonshine Sisters, and even her family members grow and change as the series continues. As Jesus changes their hearts, their decisions, attitudes, words, and more change. It's to model how changes don't often happen overnight, but over time. It shows grace, growth, and love in "real time".

In Book 1, you meet Andie at her worst. She has a grouchy attitude and has a low moment with her brother where she calls him a "jerk". One of my favorite parts of writing this series has been writing the growth and change in the relationships between the characters as they've learned along the way. Many readers have emphasized how much they have loved seeing Andie and Levi's sibling relationship become better through the books.

So, while you can read them out of order, you'll miss something special about the series, and that's seeing the growth over time!

Question 3

Is this series complete?

Accepted Answer

No, it's not finished yet. I began writing these at the end of 2023 with The Sonshine Sisters beginning their 5th grade year. I intend to write through their 8th grade year with this series eventually having 20+ books. I try to release a book each "quarter", sometimes ahead or behind that schedule. Make sure you are signed up for e-mails for notification of when new books are coming!

Question 4

How are these books written as far as a Biblical viewpoint?

Accepted Answer

I write from a Biblical worldview. These are lessons I want my own children to learn from my own writing--how to navigate the world through the Word of God.

For this age range, I keep the lessons as simple as possible while breaking down a few harder lessons.

My only agenda is writing these is to help young readers learn that no mistake or mess can keep them from Jesus. That they can continually go to Him with everything in their life, talk to Him, and let Jesus change their heart.

I am self-published so that I can keep control of the narratives in my books.

Question 5

I want to order from you, but shipping is a lot. Is there a way to make that more affordable?

Accepted Answer

Shipping rates continue to increase and is a hardship on most small businesses. I do the best I can to ensure that shipping is the lowest price possible. We now ship USPS Ground Advantage and I try to make the Sonshine shipping process as fun as possible. I include bookmarks, stickers, and all books are signed by me, Shelbey Kendall!

If none of the extras interest you. My books are available on Amazon!(https://amzn.to/42jg6eO)

Also, I do offer free shipping on orders over $75. I know that's a larger amount, but it's the best I can do as a small business and small author. :)

Question 6

Shipping is taking forever. Is my package lost?

Accepted Answer

It's most likely not lost.

I ship packages within 1-2 business days, however USPS can experience some delays in their service.

We have upgraded our system so we are now shipping USPS Ground Advantage instead of Media Mail, which does take less days.

If you do have a problem and have your tracking number, please first take that tracking number to your local post office to inquire on its status. They usually have more information in their system than I have. :)

Question 7

I noticed there is a book about a Secret Admirer. Is there "crush talk" in these books?

Accepted Answer

These books feature a diverse group of five girls that are 10 and 11 when the series starts. When the series ends they'll be 14-years-old.

With that being said, yes. There is talk of crushes because the girls are all different. You have one character, Caroline, that is "boy crazy" and you have the main character, Andie, that is not. I try to write these books as realistic as possible, and the reality is...some girls have crushes and some don't.

I've had some "push back" from some Christian moms about including any crushes in the books, but I, myself, was a "boy crazy" young girl at one point and if books or adults would have told me that having a crush in second grade on my next-door neighbor was not very "Christian" of me, I can't imagine the trauma I'd be unpacking from that.

I don't think there is anything inherently wrong with having a crush. I think it's a very real aspect of life that shouldn't be shamed, but instead, that we should talk about, especially as Christians.

While "romance" isn't a main focus in the entire series, it is talked about in the way that relates to different girls. These books are meant to be relatable so that young readers can learn how to grow closer to Jesus and become the best version of themselves in all aspects of life.

Question 8

Can I buy these books anywhere else?

Accepted Answer

Amazon is the only other place these books are currently available. I am an indie author (independent) author. If you are a literary agent and want to see this series in the hands of someone that can make it a lot bigger...feel free to message me! ;)

The Sonshine Sister Club

Questions and Answers