For years, I dreamed of turning one of my children’s songs into a book. It’s something I’ve wanted to do for as long as I can remember—but I wasn’t convinced I had the right song.
When I wrote the song A Broken Crayon, something was different. It wasn’t just a catchy melody or a clever idea—it was personal. The message hit home for me: Even when we feel broken, God isn’t finished with us. In fact, some of His most beautiful work comes because of our brokenness, not in spite of it.
That truth is at the very heart of the gospel.
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’”
—2 Corinthians 12:9 (ESV)
After the song was released, I started getting invitations to speak at parenting conferences, children’s ministry events, and church gatherings. I began sharing my own story—burnout, isolation, and the cost of pretending everything’s fine when it’s not. And I kept thinking: What if this message could become a story for kids?
That’s when I finally got serious about writing the book I had always dreamed of creating. And honestly? It was a lot harder than I thought it would be. Creating something impactful in a way that feels simple is tricky! It took a while, but I am absolutely thrilled with how everything turned out.
Working with illustrator Jan Dolby was such a gift. Her artwork brings the story to life in ways I never could’ve imagined. We even created a little surprise hidden on every page—a tiny character named Grace for kids to find. I remember how much my boys loved books with hidden pictures when they were little, so it was important to me to add that fun little element!
To take it a step further, we’ve created what may be our most visually powerful music video yet, releasing this September alongside the book. Whether you’re watching the video, reading the story, or hearing it live at an event, each piece was designed to work together to share one thing: the beautiful, life-giving grace of God.
This project is vulnerable. Honest. Hope-filled. And it’s for anyone—child or adult—who’s ever felt like they’re not enough.
My prayer is that this book becomes a trusted tool for parents, teachers, and counselors to open up meaningful conversations about identity, value, and hope in Christ—even when the world says otherwise.
You can preorder A Broken Crayon now right here, and I’ll be signing every copy myself. I’d be honored if you’d share it with someone who needs to be reminded: a broken crayon still colors. And if you’d like to bring this message to your church, school, or event, I’d love to come share it in person. You can learn more at GoFishResources.com/jamie.
