Grumpy the Gator

Grumpy the Gator
Friday, October 16, 2026 by Melissa Henderson

Categories: Friday's Fiction / GUEST AUTHORS

PLEASE WELCOME

MELISSA HENDERSON

FICTION FRIDAY

THE AUTHOR’S STORY

CONVERSATIONS WITH READERS

Writing stories for children has always been one of my favorite activities. Using my imagination to create colorful scenes and fascinating characters brings my thoughts to life. Sharing those stories with believers and non-believers has taught me the importance of engaging in conversations with readers.

Whether I’m participating in local vendor events, reading to children at pre-schools, or sharing my writing with adults, I have many opportunities to share God’s message. I greet each person with a smile and a friendly hello. That simple act of caring can open the door to meaningful chats and new friendships.

At one event, a young girl about age seven walked to my table. She glanced at copies of “Licky the Lizard” and “Grumpy the Gator”. Asking if she could touch the books, I handed her a copy of each one. She flipped through the pages and then began reading from the first page.

After she finished each book, she said, “Those have God in them.”

I answered, “Yes, God created the lizards, and God created the alligators.”

Her response surprised me. “I don’t believe in God.” Looking down, she shifted from one foot to the other.

I wondered how I should respond. There were no adults with her. This sweet girl stood alone as she waited for my response.

“I’m sorry you don’t believe in God. I know He believes in you. God created you, and He loves you very much.” The words poured out as I felt the Holy Spirit guide my thoughts and what I should share.

“God loves me? Does God really love me?” She whispered.

“Yes, God loves you. I know He loves you.”

Those words brought a smile as she ran her fingers over the book covers.

Her parents reached my table and asked what she had found. I waited for her to speak.

“I want to buy both of these books.

There is God in these stories. He loves me, ya know?”

The parents looked at each other. Her Dad reached into his wallet and pulled out money to purchase the books. I considered donating the books to her, but this was an important purchase for this young girl.

With the two copies in her hands, she smiled and said good-bye. As she walked away with her parents, the girl turned and looked back at me. She smiled a smile that warmed my heart.

This story reminds me that although I’ve been writing stories since I was a young girl, there is always something new to learn. God has been working through my writing. Sometimes I see results, and I hear from readers. Other times, I don’t know how someone may have been affected by what I have written.

Either way, God knows. The two stories I wrote for our grandchildren have allowed me to share the message of God’s love.

I write for various magazines, too. I’m always thrilled when an email or snail mail arrives telling me that my writing brightened the reader’s day.

People ask where the ideas and stories come from. I have a note taped to my computer that reads “PRAY FIRST”. Praying before writing allows me to hand the process over to God. I’m amazed at how my everyday life becomes part of my stories. Our family motto is “It’s Always A Story with The Hendersons.” Many of my blog posts contain funny situations that have happened to my family.

Each message that I share, whether it’s serious or hilarious, is covered in God’s love and glory.

Another children’s book is in process. The publisher, editors, and illustrator are working every day to make a meaningful and beautiful book.

Yes, God is in this story, too.

As I created the new book, I knew God was guiding the words and the illustrations for His glory. The concept came from a true experience with my family. Most of my stories, articles, and devotions are based on my personal life. I’m thankful that God allows me to share.

I write fiction and non-fiction. My prayer is that people will draw closer to God when they read my writing. To God be the glory.

The written and spoken word can bring tears, laughter, compassion, understanding, forgiveness, and much more. The Bible can have a profound impact on the reader. When we pause to pray, share conversation with God, and share His message with others, there is always a possibility for faith to strengthen.

I look forward to writing and reading more stories.

Blessings,

Melissa Henderson

ABOUT GRUMPY THE GATOR

Living in the Lowcountry gives opportunity to see many kinds of wildlife.

While playing outside, friends notice an alligator swimming in the pond across the street. Deciding not to get close to the water, the friends run home to alert the adults. Parents see the alligator and remind everyone to stay away from the pond.

The children decide to name the gator “Grumpy the Gator” because of the grouchy look he gives them when he swims away.

God created alligators, too. We need to be safe and stay away from the gators. They want to be left alone.
In Grumpy the Gator, we are reminded to be careful around alligators. Always tell an adult when we see a gator.

MORE ABOUT MELISSA HENDERSON

Award-winning author Melissa Henderson writes inspirational messages sometimes humming with humor. Melissa is the author of “Licky the Lizard” and “Grumpy the Gator”. She is a contributor to many publications. Melissa is an Elder, Deacon and Stephen Minister. Follow Melissa on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, Goodreads, Bookbub, Youtube, Linkedin, and at http://www.melissaghenderson.com

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Comments

Jennifer E. Tirrell From Ocean Isle Beach At 10/16/2026 2:12:01 PM

Melissa's work is so cute, and living near gators, I especially love this book!

Karen Friday From Tennessee At 10/16/2026 12:29:30 PM

Melissa, I love this so much. Your reply to the little girl was indeed led by the Holy Spirit. A divine appointment. Love the idea of Grumpy the Gator. Thanks for sharing.