At just 13 years old, Alena Pitts already has quite the resume as a model, actress (War Room), and published author. She and her mother Wynter (founder of the ministry For Girls Like You) co-wrote the Lena in the Spotlight series, part of Zondervan’s Faithgirlz line. In this exclusive interview, Alena reveals the inspiration behind the popular series, why it was fun to work with Mom, and what she hopes readers will take away from book three, Day Dreams & Movie Screens.
What inspired you to start writing stories at such a young age?
I’ve always loved to inspire and encourage, specifically young people my age. I have a great imagination and make up stories all the time. So after praying about it with my family for a couple months, I got an offer to write a trilogy! It really was just a huge example of how God hears your prayers and knows your wildest dreams. He often has a much bigger plan than you can ever imagine!
Where did you get the idea for the Lena in the Spotlight series?
I got the idea for the Lena in the Spotlight series from my life. The series is really just a fictionalized version of my life.
What do you hope readers will get out of your book Day Dreams & Movie Screens?
What I hope readers will retain from reading Day Dreams & Movie Screens is: Allow God to take control! He’s got you in his hands. Sometimes that means you have to adjust and step out of your comfort zone, but in the end it is all worth it. God knows exactly what He’s doing and just asks you to trust him. All He needs is your obedience!
What is the best thing about co-writing the series with your mom?
I really feel like I got to learn more about my mom while writing this series with her. My mom is a published author also, so I got to see what she does day in and day out and how she comes up with ideas to write about. I got to see how much hard work it takes but how amazing it turns out in the end. She is a big role model for me, for sure.
How do you manage to juggle being a published author, a model and an actress with school and a regular life?
I get this question a lot and lately I’ve really realized … I don’t! I have amazing parents who guide me through it. It definitely gets really busy, but I rely on God. I want to follow his will for me—no matter where that leads me!