Calla Press Publishing is delighted to announce that Clara’s Quilt, written by Madeleine Corbett and illustrated by Caroline Greb, is now open for preorders. This beautifully crafted board book for young readers was written to spark imaginative play in children, especially in a competing world of tech and screens. As Corbett so eloquently puts it, we are in an “imagination-crisis”; with a Spring 2026 release, this enchanting story invites children into a world of wonder sparked by a simple, handmade quilt—reminding them that imagination can transform the ordinary into something extraordinary. With lyrical, rhyming storytelling and timeless themes, Clara’s Quilt encourages children to explore the beauty of creative play and the limitless possibilities found in their own dreams.

At the heart of the story is Clara, whose journey unfolds through moments of quiet imagination and curiosity. As she discovers what can happen when she closes her eyes and dreams, young readers are gently prompted to do the same—envisioning their own adventures and wonders. The book offers a meaningful nudge toward creative play, inviting families to slow down and rediscover the magic woven into everyday life.

This keepsake-quality board book is as visually stunning as it is meaningful. Featuring elegant gold foil detailing on the cover, spine, and back, Clara’s Quilt is designed to be treasured for years to come. The combination of durable craftsmanship and thoughtful design makes it an ideal gift for young children and a timeless addition to any home library.

Written by Madeleine Corbett, affectionately known as Miss Madeleine, the book reflects her lifelong passion for inspiring children. A former ballerina turned educator, she brings warmth, creativity, and purpose to her storytelling. Whether in the classroom or on the page, her mission remains the same: to encourage children to use their imaginations, lead with kindness, and reflect God’s love in the world around them.

Illustrated by Caroline Greb, whose artistic journey also began in ballet, the book is brought to life with tender, nostalgic imagery. Drawing inspiration from the beauty of everyday moments, Greb’s work highlights themes of curiosity, care, and grace. Together, Corbett and Greb have created a heartfelt and visually captivating story that will resonate with children and families alike. Readers are encouraged to follow both the author and illustrator on Instagram for a closer look at the creative process behind this special release.

Perfect for babies through preschoolers (ages 0–4), Clara’s Quilt is a keepsake board book created to be treasured during the earliest years of childhood.

For more information, please visit: www.callapresspublishing.com

NASHVILLE, TN (April 29, 2026) — HarperCollins Christian Publishing (HCCP) announced today that three of its titles were named winners at the Christian Book Awards. Presented annually by the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association (ECPA) since 1978, the Christian Book Awards recognize the best titles of the year across 12 categories and are widely considered among the highest distinctions in religious publishing.

The winning HCCP titles are:

• The Girl on the Bathroom Floor by Amber Emily Smith; narrated by Amber Emily Smith and Granger Smith, produced by Sydney Mathieu for HarperAudio in the Audio category
• NIV Application Bible (Zondervan) in the Bible category
• Spurgeon and the Gospels by Charles Spurgeon (Thomas Nelson) in the Devotion and Gift category

“We are honored to see our authors and publishing teams recognized at this year’s Christian Book Awards,” said Mark Schoenwald, President and CEO of HCCP. “These awards affirm our commitment to publishing books that shape faith, spark meaningful conversation, and make a lasting impact around the world. We are deeply grateful for our talented authors, exceptional narrators, and dedicated teams who bring these works to life.”

In addition to the award winners, 12 HarperCollins Christian Publishing titles were named finalists:

• Tame Your Thoughts written and narrated by Max Lucado, produced by Sydney Mathieu for HarperAudio in the Audio category
• NKJV Student Study Bible (Thomas Nelson Bibles) in the Bible category
• Colossians (Word Biblical Commentary) by Clinton E. Arnold (Zondervan Academic) in the Bible Reference Works category
• 30 Days of Prayer by Proverbs 31 Ministries (HarperChristian Resources) in the Bible Study category
• 52 Weeks Through the Bible by John MacArthur (HarperChristian Resources) in the Bible Study category
• Jesus, Our True Friend by Sally Lloyd-Jones; illustrated by Jago (Zonderkidz) in the Children category
• The Wonders of the First Christmas written and illustrated by Andy McGuire (Zonderkidz) in the Children category
• Tame Your Thoughts by Max Lucado (Thomas Nelson Publishers) in the Christian Living category
• The Way of the Wildflower by Ruth Chou Simons (Thomas Nelson Gift) in the Devotion and Gift category
• Van Gogh Has a Broken Heart by Russ Ramsey (Zondervan Reflective) in the Faith and Culture category
• Old Soul, New Creation by Jake Weidman (Thomas Nelson) in the New Author category
• Room for Good Things to Run Wild by Josh Nadeau (W Publishing) in the New Author category

About HarperCollins Christian Publishing
HarperCollins Christian Publishing (HCCP) is the world’s leading Christian publisher and home to renowned brands Thomas Nelson and Zondervan. It also operates various digital platforms, including FaithGateway, ChurchSource, and Bible Gateway—the world’s largest Christian website. HCCP specializes in bestselling Bibles, inspirational books, children’s books, academic resources, curriculum, gift books, audio, and digital content crafted for the Christian market. Headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, with an office in Grand Rapids, Michigan, HCCP is part of HarperCollins Publishers. For more information, visit HarperCollinsChristian.com.

Contact:  Erin Crum, HarperCollins Publishers, erin.crum@harpercollins.com 

 

CLC International is pleased to announce the appointment of Hervé Lessous of France as International Director. The appointment was unanimously confirmed by the CLC International Council following a three month period of prayer, deliberation, and voting.

Hervé served as National Director of CLC France from 2008 to 2022, during which time the ministry was strengthened and experienced sustained growth through his faithful leadership and reliance on the Lord. He currently serves as Regional Director for Europe (since 2023) and Regional Director for French-speaking Africa (since 2024). Prior to his service within CLC, Hervé held senior management responsibility in the private sector, serving as General Manager in France for Welser Profile (1995–2008).

Hervé brings to this role a deep commitment to Christ, a spirit of humility, and significant experience within the global CLC fellowship. He will serve CLC International in its mission of making Christian literature available worldwide.

Hervé and his wife, Marie-Christine, have been married since 1994 and have two adult children, Anne-Charlotte and Louis.

Speaking about his new role, Hervé said: “I desire to serve Christ and the CLC mission with a humble heart, seeking His guidance for our global and local ministry. I am committed to strengthening fellowship, unity, and prayer across the CLC family, and to helping develop a sustainable and faithful structure for the future. My desire is to serve in faith and obedience, so that Christian literature may be made available to all nations, helping people come to faith in Christ and grow in Him, while safeguarding the vision, mission, and core values of CLC. I seek to walk this path together with my wife, Marie.”

Hervé will assume his role on 1 July and succeeds Gary Chamberlin, who has served CLC for 31 years, including as International Director since October 2021. Gary will continue to support the CLC International Office during his final year of service before retiring in June 2027.

CLC International is currently active in 42 countries, operating extensive retail and wholesale ministries alongside a growing global publishing presence, serving to make Christian literature accessible worldwide.

CLC International invites continued prayer for Hervé as he assumes this responsibility, that he may be strengthened and guided as he leads this global mission.

Tara-Leigh Cobble’s The Bible Recap for Kids named Christian Book of the Year®; titles from Brazos Press and Baker Books also recognized

ADA, Mich., April 30, 2026 — Baker Publishing Group is celebrating three wins at the 2026 Evangelical Christian Publishers Association (ECPA) Christian Book Award® program, including the program’s highest honor, Christian Book of the Year®, awarded to The Bible Recap for Kids: A 365-Day Guide through the Bible for Young Readers by Tara-Leigh Cobble (Bethany House).

The awards were presented April 28 at the ECPA Awards Celebration, held at the Chicago Marriott Schaumburg during the ECPA Leadership Summit. The Christian Book Award® program, established in 1978, recognizes excellence in Christian publishing across content, literary quality, design, and impact.

“We are grateful for the recognition this year at the Christian Book Awards for all three of our titles,” said Jesse Myers, president of Baker Publishing Group, who accepted the awards at the event. “We are privileged to work with authors of the highest caliber and to have a part to play in bringing their message to the world. We are especially proud to see The Bible Recap for Kids recognized with the book of the year award. Tara-Leigh’s joyful and welcoming ministry is bringing people all over the world closer to the Bible. It’s a tremendous privilege to have a part to play in bringing that message to the world.”

The Bible Recap for Kids: A 365-Day Guide through the Bible for Young Readers is a kid-friendly adaptation of the bestselling The Bible Recap, this 365-day guide helps young readers build a lasting rhythm of Bible reading. The win comes amid continued momentum in Bible publishing and reflects strong national and global demand for accessible, habit-forming resources that help readers engage Scripture daily.

The title builds on a highly successful franchise: The Bible Recap earned the Platinum Milestone Sales Award in 2025, while the kids’ edition and companion devotional received a 2026 Bronze Award. Cobble also hosts a daily podcast that has had more than 500 million downloads.

In the Christian Living category, Karen Swallow Prior won for You Have a Calling: Finding Your Vocation in the True, Good, and Beautiful (Brazos Press)

In You Have a Calling, acclaimed author and literary scholar Prior invites readers to consider vocation as more than career, drawing on the classical pursuit of the true, the good, and the beautiful to help readers discern how God has uniquely formed them and what that formation is for. The recognition affirms Prior’s growing influence as a leading voice for thoughtful Christian engagement with calling, work, and culture.

Pastoral Confessions: The Healing Path to Faithful Ministry, by Jamin Goggin (Baker Books) won the Ministry Resources category.

Pastoral Confessions speaks honestly to the hidden weight pastors carry, offering a healing path forward for ministry leaders navigating burnout, isolation, and the pressures of vocational ministry. With pastoral wisdom shaped by his own experience, Jamin Goggin provides a resource that meets a pressing need within the church and reflects Baker Books’s longstanding commitment to publishing trusted tools that strengthen those who serve.

For more information about the 2026 Christian Book Award® program, visit ChristianBookAwards.com.

Baker Publishing Group publishes high-quality writings that represent historic Christianity and serve the diverse interests and concerns of evangelical readers.

NEWS FROM PENGUIN RANDOM HOUSE CHRISTIAN PUBLISHING GROUP

Kyle Idleman, bestselling author and senior pastor of Southeast Christian Church, has signed a multi-format, four-title deal with WaterBrook, including two trade books and two accompanying streaming curricula with participant study guides.

The deal is anchored by the Fall 2027 release of The Jesus Filter, a trade book that speaks to a defining struggle of modern life: we are drowning in options. Our calendars are full, our minds are crowded, and our souls are stretched thin by an endless stream of decisions.

Through 14 key moments in the Gospel of Mark when Jesus said “no”—and in doing so said “yes” to something else—Idleman offers readers a biblical framework for discerning what to embrace and what to resist. Rather than another book on boundaries, balance, or productivity, The Jesus Filter shows readers how to make decisions the way Jesus did: with clarity, purpose, and peace.

World rights were acquired by Will Parker Anderson, Senior Editor at WaterBrook and Multnomah, in an exclusive submission from Don Gates at The Gates Group.

For rights and inquiries, please contact Denise Cronin, decronin@penguinrandomhouse.com.

ADA, Mich. (May 1, 2026) —  Baker Publishing Group is thrilled to announce The Jesus Discoveries by Dr. Jeremiah Johnston (Bethany House, March 2026) has landed at #1 on the New York Times bestseller list, and has also been named to the Publishers Weekly and USA Today bestseller lists this week—a triple-list achievement that signals broad cultural interest in the book’s exploration of the Shroud of Turin and what cutting-edge research reveals about the historical Jesus.

Drawing on recent scientific findings, archaeological discoveries, and decades of New Testament scholarship, The Jesus Discoveries invites readers into the conversations researchers, skeptics, and believers are having right now. Rather than leading with technical evidence, Johnston frames the material through the human stories behind the discoveries—the questions ordinary people are asking and the answers history continues to reveal.

About The Jesus Discoveries
In The Jesus Discoveries, Dr. Johnston brings readers face to face with the most compelling evidence emerging today about the historical Jesus—including new analysis surrounding the Shroud of Turin, recent archaeological finds across Israel, and developments in New Testament scholarship. Written for skeptics and believers alike, the book threads scientific findings together with the human stories of the researchers, witnesses, and seekers who have shaped and been shaped by these discoveries.

About the Author
Dr. Johnston is a New Testament scholar, speaker, and host whose work bridges rigorous academic research and broad public conversation about Christian origins. He is the author of multiple books and a frequent guest across major media platforms

Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group, seeks to uplift readers’ faith, families, and free time with our library of books that emphasize living in alignment with God’s Word.

Baker Publishing Group publishes high-quality writings that represent historic Christianity and serve the diverse interests and concerns of evangelical readers.

Contacts:
Kelli Smith and John J. Mudgett, (616) 676-9185
ksmith@bakerpublishinggroup.com
jmudgett@bakerpublishinggroup.com

April 29, 2026, WHEATON, Ill.—  Crossway is pleased to announce that both He Always Hears: A Story of Loss and the Hope of Things Made New (Crossway, September 2025) by Alyson Punzi and The Story of Corrie ten Boom: The Watchmaker Who Forgave Her Enemies (Crossway, September 2025) have won 2026 Evangelical Christian Publishers Association (ECPA) Christian Book Awards in their respective categories.

Justin Taylor, Crossway’s executive vice president of book publishing, writes, “It is a joy and an honor to see these two books recognized by the ECPA. Alyson Punzi’s illustrated book for children, He Always Hears, is a powerful reminder of God’s presence and grace in the midst of loss, heartache, and pain. Jennifer T. Kelley’s The Story of Corrie ten Boom, in our Lives of Faith and Grace series, brings to life a story of profound faith and courage that continues to inspire. We thank God for these books and trust that they will continue to find their way into the hands of many readers of the next generation.”

He Always Hears, winner of the New Author category and written by Alyson Punzi, encourages young readers to pray to the Lord in times of sorrow, reminding them that he hears his children’s cries. This beautifully illustrated book equips parents to address the difficult topics of grief and disappointment while pointing children to the God who cares and his redemptive promises.

Jennifer T. Kelley’s The Story of Corrie ten Boom won the award in the Young People’s Literature category. This short and lively biography takes middle-grade readers on an engaging journey through ten Boom’s life, highlighting her upbringing, her family’s covert efforts to save hundreds of Jews during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands, and, most remarkably, her courage to forgive those who persecuted her. The Story of Corrie ten Boom shows young readers the power of mercy and the importance of sharing the message of God’s love, regardless of their circumstances.

According to the ECPA’s website, the Christian Book Award® program recognizes the highest quality in Christian books and Bibles in twelve categories, and is the oldest and among the most prestigious awards programs in the religious publishing industry.

Founded in 1938, Crossway is a not-for-profit global Christian publishing ministry that publishes gospel-centered, Bible-based content to honor our Savior and serve his church. Crossway seeks to help people understand the all-encompassing implications of the gospel and the truth of God’s word—for all of life, for all eternity, and for the glory of God alone. Crossway is the global publisher of the ESV® (English Standard Version®) Bible, more than 1,000 Christian books, and an extensive list of gospel literature. For additional information, visit crossway.org.

Contact: Sarah DeRosa, lsusanto@crossway.org, 1 (630) 682-4300, ext. 6012, crossway.org

B&H named ‘Publisher of the Year’ for the 7th time

BRENTWOOD, Tenn. — The Spanish Evangelical Publishers Association (SEPA) and the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association (ECPA) awarded Lifeway Christian Resources and B&H Publishing Group various awards this month in recent ceremonies.

B&H named Publisher of the Year

SEPA named B&H the 2026 Publisher of the Year for the seventh time, along with other honors.

This award recognizes the publisher for its outstanding and innovative contribution to the Christian publishing industry and its commitment to evangelical literature, highlighting the care taken in its content, along with the quality of its design and printing.

“Awarded by distributors of Spanish-language resources across the Americas, this recognition underscores the strength of our publishing program and the way we support and serve our commercial partners,” said César R. Custodio, global strategy director. “We are deeply honored to be named Publisher of the Year for the second consecutive year. All glory belongs to God, and we remain committed to serving Him, His Church and our customers with excellence.”

Two book covers were chosen as winners for their cover art, “Te Quiero Para Siempre,” a 2025 children’s book published by B&H Espanol, and “Hermenéutica,” which is part of a reference series titled, “Fundamentos.” 

Lifeway and B&H Publishing Group were also honored with a SEPA award for the “Best Social Network.”

Two titles also received the Silver Award for over 100,000 copies sold: RVR 1960 Holy Lane Bible and RVR 1960 Gift and Reward Bible, Pink.

SEPA announced the winners April 23 during a ceremony held at the Hilton Blue Lagoon Hotel in Miami. The event took place during the 2026 SEPA Conference, which brings together booksellers, distributors and the most prominent Hispanic publishers within the Christian literature sector across Ibero-America.

ECPA Christian Book Award®

The ECPA named “God of the Ordinary: A Study in the Book of Ruth” by Alistair Begg, released by Lifeway Christian Resources, as the 2026 Bible Study category winner of the Christian Book Awards program.

“This beautiful study reminds us how God is always at work to accomplish His purpose,” said Becky Loyd, vice president at Lifeway. “It was a privilege to partner with such a faithful servant Alistair Begg to provide this resource for churches. I hope this recognition encourages more groups to dig into Scripture together to discover God’s faithfulness, even in the ordinary days of life.”

Another Lifeway Bible Study, “Esther” by Kelly Minter, was honored as a finalist in this category.

The Christian Book Awards were presented April 28 at the ECPA Awards Celebration, held at the Chicago Marriott Schaumburg during the ECPA Leadership Summit. The annual gathering brought together Christian publishing executives and industry leaders for an evening of recognition, including a special honor for Robert Wolgemuth.

“The Christian Book Awards represent the very best of our industry each year,” said ECPA president Jeff Crosby.

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In operation since 1891, Lifeway Christian Resources is one of the leading providers of Christian resources, including Bibles, books, Bible studies, group curriculum, Christian music and movies, Vacation Bible School and church supplies, as well as camps and events for all ages. Lifeway is the world’s largest provider of Spanish Bibles. Based in Brentwood, Tennessee, Lifeway operates as a self-supporting nonprofit. For more information, visit Lifeway.com.

B&H Publishing Group, an imprint of Lifeway Christian Resources, is a team that believes Every Word Matters®. We seek to provide intentional, biblical content that positively impacts the hearts and minds of people, cultivating lifelong relationships with Jesus Christ. We publish (print and digital) in the trade, church and academic markets, as well as the CSB translation. For more information, visit BHPublishingGroup.com.

Media Contact:  Aaron Earls, Aaron.earls@lifeway.com

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Written by Jill Waggoner, a writer for Lifeway Christian Resources.

As our country prepares to celebrate a great milestone—250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence—many of us will be thinking about the founding of this nation, the astonishing beauty of the land we get to call home, and the undeniable grace of God that has led us here.

This 50-day devotional will remind readers of what makes our nation great and help readers turn their hearts toward the God who has blessed us richly. Each day’s entry will include a short devotion that touches on some element of our nation’s history, natural beauty, or culture, as well as a scripture verse and a prayer for our country and its leaders. Though the book will be released in advance of the anniversary celebrations, the collection is timeless and will not be officially linked to the semiquincentennial.

This book– created by our editors–will honor the Christian elements of our nation’s heritage and provide prayers and hope to lead us forward. God Shed His Grace on Thee celebrates and honors what makes our nation great, and it also, ultimately, reminds readers that the God of All Nations is the one responsible for it all.

FaithWords is a leading publisher of Christian non-fiction and Bibles. For more information, visit faithwords.com.

With the announcement of the passing of Marilyn Hickey, Whitaker Corporation recalls and celebrates the author’s impactful life—one spent devoted to teaching others and spreading the Word of God.

(Pittsburgh, PA – April 30, 2026) — Beloved evangelist and minister Marilyn Hickey passed away at 94 on Saturday, April 25, 2026. With over five decades in ministry, the founder of Marilyn Hickey Ministries and host of Today with Marilyn & Sarah reached billions of people around the world. Her influential work was formally recognized with a Lifetime Global Achievement Award from Oral Roberts University, the International Lifetime Peace Award from the Grand Imam and President of Pakistan, and the Pillar of Faith and the Smith Wigglesworth awards from the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary.

“With the passing of Marilyn Hickey, we mourn the loss of a truly remarkable servant of God,” says Bob Whitaker Jr., president of Whitaker Corporation. “Her life was a testament to the love of God’s Word and exemplified integrity.

“I recall hearing her preach many years ago about Balaam and his attempts to curse the people of Israel. One quote that has resonated with me for nearly two decades is, ‘You can’t curse what God has blessed.’ Marilyn lived her life as a devoted servant, continually embracing and sharing the blessings of God.”

Whitaker Corporation worked with Marilyn Hickey for over thirty-five years, initially helping distribute her products through Marilyn Hickey Ministries. In 2009, Whitaker House published her best-selling title Names of God, which continues to impact readers worldwide to this day.

Whitaker House Publisher Christine Whitaker says, “Marilyn Hickey lived and breathed the Word of God. She committed to memorize Scripture throughout her life and powerfully taught the Bible in Spirit and truth. Her love of God radiated to all those around her.”

Marilyn’s impact worldwide—through teaching, missions, and TV ministries—will continue to live on through her many publications, recordings, and the countless people she inspired.

The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Whitaker Corporation are with her daughter, pastor Sarah Bowling, and the rest of Marilyn Hickey’s family.

Media Contact: Kate MacGregor, Kate.macgregor@whitakerhouse.com