About me

Secret of success

Born and raised in the Philippines, Vanesa T. Chua now calls picturesque Oxnard, California, her home. It was the grace of God that brought Vanesa and her tightly knit family to these pristine golden beaches near the Channel Islands National Park.

Her deep love of books and learning led her to become a librarian as well as writer. Driftwood Lanterns combines all of Vanesa’s passions, aimed at elementary readers of all ages.

About Book

Book Blurb

“I’m so sorry to be the bearer of bad news.”

Felvin felt a pit in his stomach as the voice on the other end of the phone continued.

“Don Roste’s mom has died, and your name is the only one listed in her emergency contacts…the boy has nowhere else to go.” Middle-aged Felvin Gorchuv faced a decision that would change his life forever. Don Roste, a recently orphaned ten-year-old boy, stood at the same crossroads.

Will unlikely friendships be the start of a new family? And can a few pieces of forgotten driftwood be transformed into valuable works of art, reminding us all that our faithful Creator has a purpose in life for all things? The answers lie in the uniquely creative and tenderly written story for young readers, Driftwood Lanterns.

Melodie Fox, author of the My Name Is Also Freedom: Young Readers’ Version