Penny's Pages Bookshelf

Redefined: A Year of Poetry

Redefined: A Year of Poetry began as a word search for one-word titles. With two exceptions: each poem is one word defined—with various trappings of double meanings, juxtaposes of synonyms and antonyms, and allusions to scripture and literature, along with bits and pieces from personal experiences—to be read one at a time on a daily basis. This collection contains 366 poems and is organized alphabetically with fourteen selections per letter and two bookend poems. While readers may read at their own pace, the hope is that this book of poetry will provide insight into well-known and uncommon vocabulary that will be enjoyed year after year.

While Bethlehem Sleeps: A Poetic Advent Devotional

In 2012, While Bethlehem Sleeps awakened readers to reflect on the Christmas story through poetry depicting character sketches, Advent themes, and seasonal musings. This expanded edition provides devotional insights with poetic highlights. Activities at the end of each daily reading assist in extending Advent throughout the week with individual, family, and community impact. The inclusion of the original poetry collection ensures intellectual, inspirational reading year after year.

Personal Parables: A 31-Day Devotional

Often going through difficult circumstances that affect every facet of well-being is when God reveals Himself the most in our personal stories. This devotional highlights scripture studied over a two-year time period and has been consolidated into a 31-day devotional. May God bless you through this narrative journey.

The Last Time We Were Children: The Tenth Anniversary Edition

Through poetry, Penny J. Johnson explores memories from childhood. But The Last Time We Were Children is more than remembering. Her poems describe descending sledding hills, climbing mountains, and playing in fields and fairgrounds. They also profoundly cast light both with humor and serious faith on the dark hours of staying up with a sick child and sitting in the ER with an aging loved one. The pages speak of joy in first kisses, last words, and hearing the words of an autistic child. Those who read this book will be reminded how childlike faith and wishes grow into adult conviction and hope.

The Forget-Me-Nots: A Novel

Katrina Wade thinks her solitary life will continue when her great-aunt Minnie moves into a nursing home after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. But, then she meets Aric Hammond, the nursing home director, and his son Gunnar, who has Autism Spectrum Disorder. Through her relationships with Aunt Minnie, Aric, and Gunnar, will Katrina overcome the amnesia brought on by a long-ago accident, and will Aric forget the past in order to remember the deeper meaning of caring for those he loves?

Where Dreams Abide

Penny J. Johnson's third collection of poetry invites readers into virtual rooms echoing with voices that developed the author’s past, consume the present, and anticipate the future. These reflections ignite poetic interest and inspire joy through sorrow. Welcome to a reading tour of family stories, kitchen conversations, camping adventures, care-giving insights, and more.

While Bethlehem Sleeps

While Bethlehem Sleeps awakens readers to reflect on the Christmas story through character sketches, Advent themes, and seasonal musings.

Ink Dreams: Stories by members of Author’s Tale

My short story, "My Life in the End," appears in this collection.

Dreams are mysterious creatures. Follow them through the pages of this book as you rediscover confidence in your abilities, pick up the pieces when things fall apart, and bring your fears to life with the flick of a pen.

In this third anthology from members of Authors’ Tale, twenty stories question what it means to dream and what truths are linked to our souls.

Each tale is a line drawn by an author daring you to cross. Accept the challenge, turn the page, and face the story that awaits within.