Hi, I’m Ruth Clemence.
I am a writer, blogger, home educator, wife and mum based in Cardiff, Wales. Since 2011, I have kept a blog about my Christian faith, cancer diagnoses, motherhood, additional needs parenting, and more. It has been a story all of its own. It has also been a space to find my voice and rest in the greatest true story of all time - God’s story. The story arc found in the Bible is one of compelling, hopeful good news. It is the story of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration. Our individual stories are part of this great, overarching narrative.
Jesus Christ told stories to bring lifegiving truth to everyday situations. In Him, we find the truth about good and evil, hope and despair, joy and sorrow, and of the ultimate rescue through His love and grace. He is the Author of all of our stories.
The story of Noah’s Ark in the Bible was a pinnacle point in the biblical story arc pointing forward to a greater rescue - salvation in Jesus. Whether you have faith or not, the books included here are written by people from across generations, who may or may not have faith, but who have written something that reflects truth, goodness, and beauty in some form.
As we embark on reading a well-written story, it gives an opportunity to contemplate what is true, good, and beautiful. It lifts our gaze. Good stories leave us longing for more. Ultimately, I believe that longing is found in and satisfied by Christ alone.
All aboard the story ark!
With that as my backstory, I have embarked on this new venture called The Story Ark. It is a world of stories that seek to warm the heart, ignite the imagination, and cultivate connection between children and those who read to them.
It is my hope that you will be taken on a journey which will uplift, encourage, inspire, and even challenge you as you embark on this voyage. Whilst on board, you will also find out some of the reasons why I love a particular book or series. Plus I will occasionally share the thoughts on particular stories from my two children who are coming on this journey with me! I just LOVE seeing their reactions to a good story!
I am enthralled by how stories can transform, inspire, and shape us from generation to generation. They bring us to new places, spark glorious ideas, and bring us together as we share them with one another.
It’s also an aim of mine to keep the conversation going on the importance and power of literacy, and for more people of all ages and abilities to access good stories. It’s so great for our wellbeing, for enjoyment, for learning, and for a shared sense of belonging. That is also why I am cheering for writers to write beautiful stories, too!
And who knows… maybe these stories will make you stop and consider your own story in light of the greatest story of all.
I hope you will enjoy your time on board The Story Ark!
(Read below for the extended edition!)
The Story of the story ark
Once Upon A Time…
I remember being given an activity to do in school where I could build a fantasy story from a template of different choices. The only limit was the imagination and mine seemed limitless. Choosing the main characters, the trouble they would encounter, the locations they would travel through, and what they were on a quest to seek was thrilling for this 10 year old. I still have that crumpled, well-loved piece of paper.
Somewhere between being young and carefree, and growing up with the world opening up before me, I believed a lie that writing was something I couldn’t pursue as a ‘real job’. Not a serious one, anyways. So I buried this treasure of creativity bubbling within me and followed that notion. I have been on quite the adventure since, but I never forgot where I buried this treasure.
…There Was A Budding Writer…
Every so often, I would dig a little deeper, find that creativity once again, peep inside, and open the chest wider. It was often during the darkest moments of my life where stories have comforted me, and I have written from the depths of struggle to process pain and suffering. I have written poetry, blog posts, newspaper and magazine articles, website copy, and short stories. But then, I would close the chest once more. Whether it was fear, lack of confidence, disappointment, disillusionment, or a combination, I would turn the lock with the key, and try something else.
…Who Never Gave Up…
The Story Ark is the opening of the treasure chest permanently because stories are a good gift. It brings the riches of imagination, storytelling, and storytellers into the light. The world can be a dark, difficult place, and stories can provide a refuge and help us make sense of the darkness by pointing to that which is true, good, and beautiful. It can shine a ray of light, offering a glimpse of hope and a moment of refreshment. Creating a good story is a blessing to be celebrated and pursued, not something to be shunned and silenced. Books should be opened. Writers should write them. Children should be encouraged to use their imaginations, and never let the wonder of storytelling go, but hold onto it with both hands.
Join me as we explore the wonderful world of wholesome stories. A bounty of treasure awaits!
(And yes, I am starting to create my own stories again, too. To be continued…)