What is God? A Rusty's Neighborhood Series

A heartfelt story where a child’s simple question opens the door to faith, love, and understanding.

Meet the author

Joyce Bolton

Joyce Bolton lives in Florida, where she enjoys running, biking, golfing, and all water sports in the beautiful warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, not to mention the pleasures of wearing shorts every day of the year. Joyce graduated with a bachelor of science degree from the Colorado State University and spent the first eleven years teaching and coaching before transitioning to the business world for the last thirty years; however, she says teaching was her true calling. Her daily motto is to listen to great music, fill your day with laughter, and always do the right thing.

Joyce Bolton doesn’t just write a book; she opens a door to one of life’s most important questions. With a message rooted in love, curiosity, and discovery, “What Is God?” resonates with anyone looking for guidance on their spiritual path. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or seeker of truth, this book encourages meaningful conversations that can enrich your life and deepen your connection to the divine.

About The Book

What is God?

What is God is a question that everyone will ask themselves at some point in your lives. The answer has been there throughout the ages for everyone. Joyce has written this thought provoking story to answer that question.

“What Is God?” is a heartwarming and thought-provoking story that follows the journey of an inquisitive eight-year-old boy named Rusty. One day, after noticing how much his best friend values attending Sunday School, Rusty turns to his mother with a simple yet profound question: “What is God?” Though he has heard about God many times, he realizes he doesn’t truly understand who—or what—God is.

Touched by her son’s sincerity, Rusty’s mother joins him on a journey of discovery, as they explore this age-old question together. Through thoughtful conversation, curiosity, and quiet moments of reflection, mother and son begin to uncover a deeper understanding of faith, spirituality, and the presence of God in everyday life.

This uplifting story is perfect for readers of all ages—especially for those who are searching for answers, struggling to put their beliefs into words, or seeking a way to explain the concept of God to children or loved ones. Whether you’re asking the question yourself, think you already know the answer, or simply want to be able to articulate it more clearly, “What Is God?” offers a gentle, meaningful exploration of one of life’s biggest questions.

The book portrays Rusty’s questions and his mother’s thoughtful, sometimes searching, responses, making the narrative feel authentic and emotionally resonant. Rather than offering doctrinal answers, the story emphasizes openness, spiritual sensitivity, and personal reflection. It covers the full spectrum of human understanding about the divine and encourages readers to explore their own beliefs through guided dialogue and honest introspection. This refreshing and respectful approach makes the book ideal for families of any religious background.

“This gentle tale is extremely rewarding. Although geared to middle-grade readers, people of all ages can enjoy and take comfort in the caring ways in which Rusty and his mother pursue their project. The two are eager to hear their friends’ definitions, learn about other people’s beliefs, and discuss their thoughts. The peaceful way in which Rusty comes to a conclusion, which he then shares with his mother, comes across as realistic. The story discloses a process that is neither “preachy” nor dogmatic. Rusty’s journey is encouraged by caring, intelligent people who share their experiences, easing him into his own answer. Bolton’s book would be an excellent addition to a Christian school’s library or even a personal one.”

US Review of Books (USRB)

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