Author Dr. Gloria Akinniyi recently joined host Benji Cole on People of Distinction, part of CBS Radio, for an uplifting and faith-centered conversation about children’s spiritual growth, biblical storytelling, and the importance of introducing young readers to the foundations of Christian faith at an early age. The discussion revolved around her book, Young Hearts, Kingdom Builders, a title created to help children engage with the teachings and stories of the early Church in a meaningful and accessible way.
People of Distinction, hosted by Benji Cole, provides authors with a reflective platform to discuss the inspiration and deeper purpose behind their work. During the interview, Akinniyi explained that the idea for her children’s series began from a personal desire to find faith-based bedtime stories that were both spiritually enriching and appropriate for younger audiences. As an educator, scholar, and grandmother, she wanted to create books that could nurture a child’s understanding of God while remaining gentle, engaging, and age-appropriate.
A central theme of the conversation was the belief that children are capable of understanding profound spiritual truths when those ideas are presented with care and clarity. Akinniyi discussed how Young Hearts, Kingdom Builders introduces young readers to significant moments from the Book of Acts, including Pentecost, miracles, persecution, and missionary journeys, while emphasizing faith, courage, compassion, and obedience to God. Rather than simplifying scripture into disconnected lessons, her approach encourages children to see themselves as active participants in God’s Kingdom.
Throughout the interview, Akinniyi highlighted the challenge of translating complex biblical events into stories that inspire without creating fear or confusion. She shared that her goal was not only to teach scripture, but also to cultivate curiosity and spiritual reflection in young minds. By presenting biblical narratives through warmth and encouragement, she hopes children will develop both a love for God’s Word and the confidence to ask thoughtful questions about faith.
Cole guided the conversation toward the broader impact of children’s literature within Christian households. Akinniyi reflected on how stories shared during childhood often remain with individuals throughout their lives, shaping values, identity, and spiritual understanding. She emphasized that parents and grandparents play a vital role in building a child’s spiritual foundation, and books like this bookcan become tools for meaningful family conversations about faith and purpose.
The interview also underscored the broader mission behind Akinniyi’s five-book series. Her work seeks to make biblical teachings approachable for young readers while preserving the emotional depth and spiritual significance of scripture. Through storytelling, she aims to help children recognize that faith is not reserved for adulthood, but something that can begin developing in the earliest stages of life.
By the end of the conversation, it became clear that this book is more than a children’s book—it is an invitation for young readers to grow in faith, courage, and spiritual understanding. The interview offered a reminder that children are never too young to begin learning about God’s Kingdom and discovering how their own hearts and lives can reflect His purpose.
Get to know more about the author and the work as you listen to the full interview below: