Meet Our Team
Anistemi Authors
These authors are the regular contributors that power much of our most visible online presence: from writing content to assistance in web maintenance and publication processes! They're enrolled in Anistemi Authors Academy and gaining experience by doing the work of authors and learning the publishing ropes—as they build a portfolio of published work, online presence, resume experience, and work on longer works for future publication. Visit our bookshop to see what is currently available, and subscribe to our newsletter to learn about updates, author events, pre-order opportunities, new releases, and more.
A.D. Merci
A.D. writes with families in mind, offering hope-filled, fun fantasy adventure, worldbuilding built for exploration, & likeable characters. Escape reality to reconnect with meaning!
Her first full-length novel becomes available for pre-order this summer! A.D. is also gaining experience in content writing, developmental editing & instruction!,
Jordan Foster
Jordan writes for YA readers who crave entertaining action, relatable characters, and enjoyment that Christian readers can guiltlessly enjoy. Indulge in engagement that uplifts!
Her first nonfiction workbook for Christian writers becomes available for pre-order this fall! Jordan is also gaining skills in content writing and editing!
Ellie Ballard
Ellie writes for YA readers who desire fiction that shows biblical principals in action, clearly, and with timeless quality. Be edified, encouraged, and uplifted through meaningful story!
Her author website recently launched, and her newsletter launch is scheduled for this fall! Ellie's also gaining experience in blog management; her support keeps A Muse going strong!
Bekah Byrk
Bekah writes for middle grade & YA readers who want beautiful stories fueled by lyrical prose, imaginative style, sincerity, and natural storytelling! Find wonder in the everyday!
Her author website recently launched, and her newsletter launch is scheduled for this fall! She's also working on her first full-length manuscript.
Addie Ballard
Addie writes for YA readers who enjoy action, adventure, and unexpected realities revealed through story. Explore challenging themes that reveal eternal truth shown through action!
Addie is currently working on her first full-length novel manuscript! Addie's also gaining experience in formatting and cover art; her work is featured throughout our Open Access Library.
Ruth Partridge
Ruth writes for young readers Her engaging stories take inspiration from scripture, and her impressively mature style has been honed by oral storytelling for her younger siblings!
Ruth is currently writing her first short work of fiction about Agent A's mission to secure the Armor of God!
Katherine Ballard
Katherine writes for YA and adult readers who want worthy content that doesn't avoid life's challenges. Boldly introspective, honest, & imaginative, her voice invites readers to linger and reflect on inner life!
Katherine not only an author but is also the powerhouse that keeps our Open Access Library running smoothly!
Anistemi Admin, Mentors, & Collaborators
These members of the team are the professional powerhouses that produce our educational products and fill administrative roles. Though less visible to the public, they're the most visible to the authors and creators they support. They each bring needed skillsets and experiences to Anistemi Authors—strategically selected to equip our authors for creating excellent content.
Janie Barbosa
Founder & CEO
Steffanie Schweikert
Editor in Chief
Devon Kelly
Arts Program Director
Carlos Barbosa
Director of Operations
Ian Nobel
Audio Production Manager
John Partridge
Collaborator: LogosTeach
Award-Winning Short Stories & Flash Fiction
1st Place - 2025 Fall Publishing Contest
Explores the Theme of Redemption
"The Final Lap"
by Katie Klinedinst
Meet "Chevy," a Formula 1 racer with a reckless reputation that leaves him questioning his purpose—and position on his new team. Follow this high-speeds, high-stakes story to discover what Chevy will do when faced with a split-second decision: Will he fall into his old pattern of pride and recklessness?
Expect layers of complexity of theme: By layering internal and external conflict, we experience—through Chevy—how God can redeem even our worst mistakes to pull us into his ongoing redemptive work in and through us. Chevy emerges as a true everyman hero that believers can love; we glimpse his guilt, his questions, and... well, we won't give away the ending!
2nd Place - 2025 Fall Publishing Contest
Explores the Theme of Redemption
"More Than a Child"
by Ruth Partridge
Meet Nella, a humble servant girl who has been taken from her home and family to serve the enemy. Follow her unexpected journey to a moment of autonomous power: Will she choose love in the face of hatred and danger? And what does her example reveal about characters who serve as redeemers? Nella's example reminds readers that Christ, Our Redeemer, came as a humble servant child—and that his power is made perfect in our weakness.
We love the complexity of the characters, the sophisticated backstory that shines through without much retelling, and the strong agency given the main character; her voice is distinct from the author's and narrator's.
3rd Place - 2025 Fall Publishing Contest
Explores the Theme of Redemption
"Guilty"
by Kathryn Turley
"Guilty" offers a tangible picture of redemption that every reader can personally relate to. How should we respond to such an undeserved gift?
"Guilty" is a masterful example of Christian allegory presented in short story form. This level of allegory also demonstrates advanced care: every symbol remains faithful to the true gospel—acknowledging the weighty realities of guilt, dread, and judgement while delicately and deeply offering readers rest through the reality of Christ's love and sacrifice.
New: Spring 2026 Titles Coming May 1st!
Upcoming Events
OPEN NOW!
ONLINE: Enroll in Anistemi Authors Academy
Start a portfolio of published works
Creative writing with immediate purpose
Explore high-level author skills to apply
Get mentorship from experienced editors
Read with author & editor eyes
Build collaborative relationships
Grow your editorial skillsets
Design an online presence
Launch an author newsletter
Gain experience in the skills of publishing
Prepare for a career in freelancing, self-publishing, or traditional publishing—by starting the work now!
JUNE 4th
FREE ONLINE: Summer Publishing Workshop Begins June 4th!
Focus on Authoring
Delivered through our newsletter
Open to authors 8-ish & up
Two Rounds (1st in June & 2nd in July)
Get to the Heart of Storytelling
Experience Publishing with Anistemi
Be featured in our newsletter & library
LATE JULY
West Richland, WA: July Young Authors Workshop (Ages 8-11)
Full Details Coming Soon!
Watch the newsletter for information.
AUGUST 18th
ONLINE: New Student Open House
10-11am Pacific | 11am-12pm MST | 12-1pm CST | 1-2pm EST
Meet & Mingle
Practice logging in with live support
Meet your peers: Author Ice-breaker
Meet your mentor
Ask questions
Giveaway
Watch Your Email
Your mentor will make sure you're all set to start strong!
READY TO join?
Become an Anistemi Author
We'll send you a welcome series that explains how we help students strategically build professional presence and a published portfolio while still in high school. You'll also get our yearly calendar, an overview of our application process for the live cohorts, live schedule, and sneak peeks into the courses.