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The Good Book Company launches Easter video series for kids

March 10, 2025 by Sheri Toomb

MARCH 2025 | CHARLOTTE, NC – The Good Book Company is excited to announce the upcoming release of videos for kids telling the true story of Easter based on God’s Big Promises Bible Storybook, written by Carl Laferton and illustrated by Jennifer Davison (The Good Book Company, September 2023).

Narrated by Andrew Wilson, there is a series of 8 short, 2-minute videos that begins with Jesus entering Jerusalem on a donkey and ends with Thomas rejoicing with his risen Lord. The video series uses animations based on God’s Big Promises Bible Storybook as an engaging way to share the Easter story in all-age church services, in kids’ groups, and as a family. Just like the Bible storybook, the videos are biblically faithful resources for kids ages 2+ through 8. A shorter compilation video version also shares the Easter story more succinctly.

James Burstow, President and Chief Commercial Officer of The Good Book Company, says, “A passion for God’s word is at the heart of everything we do at The Good Book Company and so we are thrilled to be launching this new Easter video series for younger children. We hope it will share with kids everywhere the amazing news that King Jesus is alive again!”

Download of these videos includes permission to play them for family, classroom, or the whole church.

ABOUT THE GOOD BOOK COMPANY
Founded in 1991, The Good Book Company (TGBC) is an international Christian publisher. Their Bible studies, books, devotionals, videos, tracts, evangelistic courses, and training materials are used throughout the English-speaking world, and in translation in over 35 languages worldwide. Everyone at TGBC is passionate about the Lord Jesus, His word, His church, and His gospel of grace. They create and publish biblical, relevant, and accessible resources that will encourage Christians to keep going, keep growing, and keep sharing their faith.

 

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Five IVP titles named finalists for 2024 INDIES Book of the Year Awards

March 10, 2025 by Sheri Toomb

March 2025 | LISLE, IL— InterVarsity Press (IVP) is honored to announce that five of its books have been named finalists for the 2024 Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Awards. The titles include The Adoptee’s Journey by Cameron Lee Small, Swing Low by Walter R. Strickland II, Beyond Ethnic Loneliness by Prasanta Verma, Our Church Speaks by Ben Lansing and D. J. Marotta, and The New Testament in Color edited by Esau McCaulley, Janette H. Ok, Osvaldo Padilla, and Amy L. B. Peeler.

As part of its mission to discover, review, and share the best books from university and independent publishers, Foreword Magazine hosts an annual awards program each year. Finalists represent the best books published in 2024. The finalists were determined by Foreword’s editorial team, and winners are now being decided by teams of librarian and bookseller judges from across the country. Winners in each genre, along with Editor’s Choice Prize winners and Foreword’s Indie Publisher of the Year, will be announced in June 2025.

IVP books were chosen as finalists in the following categories:


Family & Relationships (Adult Nonfiction)

The Adoptee’s Journey: From Loss and Trauma to Healing and Empowerment

Adoptee and counselor Cameron Lee Small names the realities of the adoptee’s journey, narrating his own and other adoptees’ stories in all their complexity. He unpacks the history of how adoption has worked and names how the church influenced adoption practices with unintended negative impacts on adoptees’ faith. Small’s own tumultuous search for and reunion with his mother in Korea inspired him to help other adoptees navigate what it means to carry multiple stories. His adoptee-centered advocacy helps adoptees regain their agency and identity on a journey of integration and healing, with meaningful relationships in all their family systems.

Haley Radke, creator and host of the Adoptees On podcast, said, “Adopted people have complex origin stories, and Cameron Small diligently walks us through with compassionate lenses to see the intimate inner workings of the adoptee experience. The church has worked hard to sugarcoat the adoption experience, and normally we only get the adoptive parents’ lens; this book is the nurturing table-overturning we need from an adoptee.”


History (Adult Nonfiction)

Swing Low, volume 1: A History of Black Christianity in the United States

The dynamic witness of the Black church in the United States is an essential part of Christian history that must be heard and dependably retold. In this groundbreaking two-volume work, Walter R. Strickland II does just that through a theological-intellectual history highlighting the ways theology has formed and motivated Black Christianity across the centuries. Through his original research he has identified five theological anchors grounding African Americans in Christian orthodoxy: Big God, Jesus, Conversion and walking in the Spirit, the Good Book, and Deliverance. The finalist for the INDIES award, volume 1 tells the story of these themes from the 1600s to the present. Volume 2, a companion anthology, covers the breadth of these historical developments by presenting primary-source documents so we can listen to Black Christianity in its own words.

Mark Noll, author of America’s Book and C. S. Lewis in America, said, “With its focus on Black Protestants, these books are landmarks for the exploration of the nation’s past and its perennial struggles over race. Most of all they record a story that has been regularly neglected in accounts of American Christianity. It is the often unexpected, sometimes contentious, but enduring impact of the Christian gospel throughout African American history.” 


Multicultural (Adult Nonfiction)

Beyond Ethnic Loneliness: The Pain of Marginalization and the Path to Belonging

An Indian American immigrant who grew up in white Southern culture, Prasanta Verma names and sheds light on the realities of ethnic loneliness. She unpacks the exhausting effects of cultural isolation, the dynamics of marginalization, and the weight of being other. In the midst of disconnection and erasure, she points to the longing to belong, the need to share our stories, and the hope of finding safe friendships and community.

“Beyond Ethnic Loneliness is a moving read for any person of color who has silently carried the burden of isolation, invisibility, and marginalization in a society that has ‘devalued, attacked, beaten, shot, lynched, enslaved, exiled, killed’ those who do not conform to a ‘white-majority culture,’” said Terence Lester, founder of Love Beyond Walls and author of From Dropout to Doctorate. “Prasanta Verma’s words provide the embrace I never received in spaces where I felt unseen and unheard when discrimination and racism disregarded my racial identity.”


Religion (Adult Nonfiction)

Our Church Speaks: An Illustrated Devotional of Saints from Every Era and Place

This illustrated devotional vividly depicts the lives and words of great women and men of faith. Artist Ben Lansing and Anglican priest D. J. Marotta offer fifty-two profound images and reflections on Christians, from Polycarp in the first century to the martyrs of Sudan in the twenty-first century. These saints, from every continent and century of church history, demonstrate the historic church’s relevance for Christians today and reveals God’s faithfulness in all times and circumstances.

“In a world captivated and mesmerized by the cult of celebrity, this book helps us to reorient our hearts to experience the saints as ones that not only speak to our past but also shine the light and guide the path to our future,” said J.R. Briggs, founder of Kairos Partnerships and author of The Art of Asking Better Questions. “We stand on the shoulders of brothers and sisters in the faith who’ve faithfully shown us the way—and this resource helps make them accessible and relevant to our everyday lives. Our Church Speaks is a useful tool full of stunning artwork and meaningful prayers to help us to sit at the feet of saints young and old and learn from those who are a part of the great cloud of witnesses. For the past few years, I’ve been shaped and formed by these visuals online. I’m thrilled this collection has been published into a book we can now hold in our hands!”


Reference (Adult Nonfiction)

The New Testament in Color: A Multiethnic Bible Commentary

Edited by Esau McCaulley, Janette Ok, Osvaldo Padilla, and Amy Peeler, this one-volume commentary on the New Testament is written by a multiethnic team of scholars holding orthodox Christian beliefs. Each scholar brings exegetical expertise coupled with a unique interpretive lens to illuminate the ways social location and biblical interpretation work together. Theologically orthodox and multiethnically contextual, The New Testament in Color fills a gap in biblical understanding for both the academy and the church.

“In my own theological education, I was pressured to suppress my ethnic perspective and experiences, to conform to some sort of disembodied neutrality,” said Nijay Gupta, author of Tell Her Story and professor of New Testament at Northern Seminary. “Since then I have come to learn that my background, culture, and reading lens can actually enhance my ability to understand Scripture. I am thrilled to recommend The New Testament in Color because this ‘library-in-a-book’ reflects the beautiful mosaic of a many-colored hermeneutic. I wish someone had handed this book to me twenty-five years ago, and I hope many will read it now.”


For a complete list of IVP award winners visit ivpress.com/award-winners.


Founded in 1947, InterVarsity Press (IVP) focuses on publishing Christian books that discuss influential cultural moments, provide tools for mental growth through a Christian framework, and equip pastors, professors, and ministry leaders in their work. IVP is a subsidiary of InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.


Contact:  Krista Clayton | kclayton@ivpress.com

 

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IVP Kids titles win 2025 Illumination Book Awards

March 3, 2025 by Sheri Toomb

2025 | LISLE, IL—InterVarsity Press (IVP) is thrilled to announce that three IVP Kids titles have received 2025 Illumination Book Awards. The honored titles include Birth of the Chosen One, Penny Preaches, and Saint Valentine the Kindhearted.

The Illumination Christian Book Awards celebrate the best new Christian books from both independent and traditional publishers. The awards recognize outstanding works that thoughtfully explore faith, Scripture, and spiritual themes in today’s world. Titles are submitted in over twenty-five categories, including Devotionals, Bible Studies, and Children’s Picture Books.

Winner of the gold medal in the Children’s Picture Book category, Penny Preaches: God Gives Good Gifts to Everyone! is written by Amy Dixon and Rob Dixon and illustrated by Jennifer Davison. Penny loves Sunday sermons and dreams of preaching. But when preaching from the front porch to her friends doesn’t turn out quite as she expected, Penny wonders if she was wrong to want to teach others about God. Penny’s story celebrates the gifts God has given to all His children and invites children into a vision of a church where everyone’s gifts can shine.

Gold medal winner in the Holiday category is Birth of the Chosen One: A First Nations Retelling of the Christmas Story. This unique adaptation by Terry M. Wildman is an Indigenous translation of the Creator’ Story told in the tradition of Native oral storytellers. With text from the bestselling First Nations Version and stunning illustrations by Native artists Hannah and Holly Buchanan, Birth of the Chosen One is a powerful picture book that illuminates the Christmas story in a fresh and new way.

Silver medal winner in the Holiday category is Saint Valentine the Kindhearted: The History and Legends of God’s Brave and Loving Servant by Ned Bustard. Told in rhyme and delightfully illustrated with Ned Bustard’s signature linocut artwork, this is the story of Saint Valentine’s life and legacy. Young readers will learn about the inspiration behind Valentine’s Day celebrations. Ned Bustard’s other award-winning IVP Kids titles include Saint Nicholas the Giftgiver and Saint Patrick the Forgiver.

IVP Kids offers resources that reflect and celebrate diverse voices, equipping and encouraging children to follow Jesus in every area of their lives. “Working with these talented authors and illustrators has been an absolute delight,” says Elissa Schauer, Executive Editor and IVP Kids editor. “I am so thrilled that these wonderful books are being honored and celebrated with this award!”

For a complete list of IVP Kids award winners visit ivpress.com/award-winners.

Contact:  Anna Tjernstrom | atjernstrom@ivpress.com

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Authors team up with Lifeway Christian Resources for discipleship program

March 3, 2025 by Sheri Toomb

‘Deep Discipleship’ aims to bolster theological foundations within the local church

BRENTWOOD, Tenn. – For almost a decade, authors J.T. English, Jen Wilkin and Kyle Worley have made it their mission to make theological education accessible to laypeople in the church.

They have also helped train church leaders to guide their people toward knowing the essential foundations of the Christian faith through Training the Church ministry cohorts, podcasts like “Knowing Faith” and other resources that have been useful for providing laypeople with tools for knowing and understanding Scripture.

On April 1, these authors are teaming up with Lifeway Christian Resources to launch “Deep Discipleship,” a 24-week program (two 12-week semesters) that equips and empowers participants to grow deeply in their faith within the context of the local church, allowing believers to engage with God’s Word in a meaningful and comprehensive way.

The “Deep Discipleship” curriculum offers an in-depth approach to discipleship that fosters both small group and individual Bible study on the essential foundations and doctrines of the Christian faith rooted and revealed in Scripture. “We believe theology is for everyone,” said Worley, pastor of Mosaic Church in Richardson, Texas. “The goal of this program is and has always been to make the deep things of God accessible to all the people in our churches — not just to a select few.”

“Deep Discipleship” is based on three core tenets that tie the curriculum together:

  • Christian story: understanding the grand narrative of Scripture
  • Christian belief: the essential doctrines of the Christian faith
  • Christian formation: how story and belief shape worship, mission and obedience to Christ

Unlike programs that require minimal engagement, “Deep Discipleship” will challenge participants to go deep by learning and growing in their biblical literacy, theological knowledge and practice of spiritual disciplines. The program includes a Group Starter Kit, which contains five “Deep Discipleship” journals, video-based teaching sessions, a digital leader guide, group discussion questions and weekly individual assignments.

Each Group Starter Kit includes five journals with the option to add more, depending on the size of each group. Participants will also receive digital access to three books, including “You Are a Theologian” by Wilkin and English, “Formed for Fellowship” by Kyle Worley (May 2025) and “Remember and Rehearse” by English (May 2025).

“One of the primary reasons we are facing a discipleship crisis is because local churches have lost a vision for discipleship in the local church,” said English, pastor of Storyline Church in Arvada, Colorado. “As the family of God, local churches are absolutely indispensable to shaping and forming deep disciples. In this program, every local church can expose their people to three indispensable elements for every disciple: the story of Scripture, the basics of the faith, and spiritual disciplines. Every single church and every disciple should have access to this program.”

According to Lifeway Research and Ligonier’s 2022 State of Theology report, many of the core tenants of Scripture are not strongly believed among evangelicals, revealing a crack in the church’s discipleship framework and methodology. For example, 43% of evangelicals agree Jesus was a great teacher but not God.

Additionally, a 2019 Discipleship Pathway Assessment study from Lifeway Research found that while 78% of Protestant churchgoers said they had developed significant relationships with people at their church, only 48% intentionally spent time with other believers to help them grow in their faith.

“Many church leaders have been told they must continually lower the bar to attract participants,” said Wilkin. “The opposite is true: people rise to a challenge and rally to a compelling vision. And in an age of rampant theological and biblical illiteracy, the time has never been better to call them to that vision through deep discipleship.”

Additionally, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary has partnered with Lifeway to offer participants their first seminary class free upon completion of the Deep Discipleship program. More information can be found at MBTS.edu/deepdiscipleship.

For more information about the “Deep Discipleship” program, visit lifeway.com/deepdiscipleship.=

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.

MEDIA CONTACT:  Aaron Earls, aaron.earls@lifeway.com

by Lauren Pratt, a contracted publicist for Lifeway Christian Resources.

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CLC Publications announces the release of “The Ordinary Church” by John MacArthur

March 3, 2025 by Sheri Toomb

March 3, 2025 – In his newest book, The Ordinary Church: Restoring the Biblical Model, Pastor John MacArthur invites us to walk the old paths, where the timeless truths of Scripture guide us in discerning what truly constitutes a faithful congregation. Prepare to embark on a journey that cuts through the distractions of modern culture and leads us to the heart of genuine, enduring fellowship.

In today’s landscape, not everything claiming the title of a church embodies health or truth. The Ordinary Church becomes a vital tool for believers, providing a lens to scrutinize the ordinary church and to serve as a guide to adopting a God-honoring approach in establishing and defining a faithful congregation amid the challenges of a sin-perverted world.

“This book has come at a key moment in church history. Society today has infiltrated many churches in ways that lead to confusion among leaders and discontentment among members. John MacArthur provides much-needed clarity and insight into how an ‘ordinary church’ is truly extraordinary.”  – Brian Biedebach, Dean of Students and Associate Professor of Pastoral Ministry, The Master’s Seminary

John MacArthur is the chancellor of The Master’s University and Seminary, a pastor-teacher at Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California, and chairman and featured teacher of Grace to You, a nonprofit radio and television program. He and his wife, Patricia, live in Southern California and have four married children, and fifteen grandchildren.

The Ordinary Church is available from CLC Publications (www.clcpublications.com) and other major distributors.

CLC Publications is the English language publishing house for CLC Ministries International. Headquartered in Fort Washington, PA, CLC has published books for the Deeper Christian Life for over 50 years.

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WaterBrook acquires Wild Faith devotional

March 3, 2025 by Sheri Toomb

WaterBrook, an imprint of PRH Christian Publishing Group, has acquired speaker and founder of Our Everyday Parables Valerie Ellis’s WILD FAITH DEVOTIONAL FOR KIDS: 52 AMAZING ANIMALS THAT POINT TO ONE GREAT GOD, a nonfiction anthology of well-known animals such as flamingos, snakes, dogs, and cats along with lesser-known creatures like the capybara, glass frog, and rock-climbing goby — to help kids ages 7 and up celebrate God’s creativity and rest in His great love. The devotional is illustrated by Jennifer Bricking and is slated for Fall 2025 publication.

Acquisition went to Bunmi Ishola, Senior Editor, at PRH Christian Publishing Group for WaterBrook, by Annette Bourland at Bourland Strategic Advisors for the author and Tamara Shannon at Shannon Associates for the illustrator (world). For rights inquiries, contact Denise Cronin dcronin@penguinrandomhouse.com

WaterBrook is an imprint of PRH Christian Publishing Group, a division of Penguin Random House, LLC.

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Nelson Books celebrates “Fighting Shadows” as Outreach Resource of the Year in Counseling and Relationships

March 3, 2025 by Sheri Toomb

February 28, 2025 — Nelson Books, an imprint of Thomas Nelson, is thrilled to announce that Fighting Shadows: Overcoming 7 Lies That Keep Men From Becoming Fully Alive by Jefferson Bethke and Jon Tyson has been named Outreach Resource of the Year in the Counseling and Relationships category. This honor recognizes the book’s profound impact in addressing critical issues men face today and equipping them with tools to live with unwavering faith, courage, and purpose.

Fighting Shadows has resonated deeply with readers by confronting the false narratives—or “shadows”—that threaten to derail identity, relationships, and spiritual growth. Through a combination of raw storytelling, biblical truth, and actionable advice, Bethke and Tyson have created a guide that inspires men to break free from cultural pressures and step into their God-given potential.

“Jefferson and Jon’s work has been a source of transformation for countless readers and their families. This award further solidifies its place as an essential resource for personal and spiritual growth.”  said Andrew Stoddard, VP and Publisher of Nelson Books.

With topics ranging from vulnerability and emotional health to authentic leadership and spiritual depth, Fighting Shadows challenges men to redefine masculinity through the lens of their faith. It offers a bold roadmap for leading lives that are courageous, purposeful, and full of integrity.

Nelson Books is proud to celebrate this achievement and invites readers to discover why Fighting Shadows continues to inspire and empower men across the globe.

Contact:  Devin Duke, Sr. Publicity Manager, Devin.Duke@HarperCollins.com

 

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Five Baker Publishing Group titles named Outreach Magazine Resources of the Year

March 3, 2025 by Sheri Toomb

Ada, Mich. (March 3, 2025)—Outreach Magazine recently announced the winners of their Resources of the Year. Baker Academic titles received three top honors. Brazos Press received one top honor and one recommended title. Bethany House also received one top honor.

Heading up the Baker Academic list was Crossing Cultures with the Gospel by Darrell L. Whiteman in the Missions and Cross-Cultural category. Healthy Leadership for Thriving Organizations by Justin A. Irving has been named one of two Outreach Resources of the Year in the Leadership category. A Short Guide to Spiritual Formation by Alex Sosler was named one of two winners of Resource of the Year in the Spiritual Growth category.

Brazos Press also had one title included and one recommended. Gratitude by Cornelius Plantinga was named Resource of the Year winner in the Christian Living category. Strange Religion by Nijay K. Gupta was also recommended in the Culture category.

Bethany House also had one title included. The 100 Most Asked Questions about Heaven, Hell, and the Afterlife by S. Michael Houdmann was named Resource of the Year in the Apologetics category.

Crossing Cultures with the Gospel by Darrell L. Whiteman
(Baker Academic, ISBN 9781540960467, Ebook ISBN 9781493429547, $27.99p)

Healthy Leadership for Thriving Organizations by Justin A. Irving
(Baker Academic, ISBN 9781540964809, Ebook ISBN 9781493442829, $26.99p)

A Short Guide to Spiritual Formation by Alex Sosler
(Baker Academic, ISBN 9781540966612, Ebook ISBN 9781493446353, $21.99p)

Gratitude by Cornelius Plantinga
(Brazos Press, ISBN 9781587436222, Ebook ISBN 9781493444946, $22.99c)

Strange Religion by Nijay K. Gupta
(Brazos Press, ISBN 9781587435171, Ebook ISBN 9781493444922, $18.99p)

The 100 Most Asked Questions about Heaven, Hell, and the Afterlife by S. Michael Houdmann
(Bethany House, ISBN 9780764245794, Ebook ISBN 9781493452392, $17.99p)

Outreach Magazine announced winners in a range of categories, including Evangelism, Social Justice, Spiritual Growth, Counseling, Biblical Studies, and Apologetics. The complete list of recognized resources can be found here.

“We congratulate these authors on this recognition of their important works,” notes Jim Kinney, Executive Vice President of Academic Publishing. “Christians must engage a wide array of issues as they bring the gospel to bear on life in the twenty-first century. It is a privilege for us to publish these books that will help us do just that.”

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

Contact:  Shelly MacNaughton, (616) 450-5560, smacnaughton@bakerpublishinggroup.com

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Melanie Shankle’s HERE BE DRAGONS debuts on NYT Bestseller List

March 3, 2025 by Sheri Toomb

COLORADO SPRINGS, CO, March 3, 2025—WaterBrook, an imprint of PRH Christian Publishing Group, is delighted to share that Here Be Dragons: Treading the Deep Waters of Motherhood, Mean Girls, and Generational Trauma (Feb. 18, 2025) by Melanie Shankle, author and co-host of the Big Boo Cast, debuted at #5 on The New York Times Hardcover Nonfiction Bestseller list and at #8 on the Nonfiction Print and E-book Combined Bestseller List.

In Here Be Dragons, Shankle—now a four-time New York Times bestselling author—presents a poignant, deeply personal story about trusting God to heal generational wounds so you can be a strong, loving presence for your teenage daughter.

Like a lot of moms, Shankle found herself in need of a parenting map when her teenage daughter, Caroline, entered her sophomore year of high school where she encountered relentless mean girls and brutal heartache. While trying to equip her daughter to deal with the toxic social dynamics of high school, Melanie was hit with a cruel realization: The shame, criticism, and verbal abuse she had endured throughout her own life was wrought by one particular mean girl—her own mother.

“Amazingly, this is not the book Melanie set out to write . . . yet it’s the message that poured out of her. It’s even better than what any of us—including Melanie—were expecting!” said Susan Tjaden, WaterBrook VP/Executive Editor. “We are thrilled it is resonating with readers in the way we had hoped.”

Reader reviews showcase their enthusiasm calling Here Be Dragons Shankle’s best book yet. With more than 120 reviews on Goodreads and a 4.86 rating, readers are saying  “I devoured it,” “I love this book from start to finish,” and  “there is so much truth, wisdom and encouragement to be found here.”

In celebration of Here Be Dragons, Shankle is doing  a nine-city book tour visiting stores across her home state of Texas, as well as in the South. Upcoming events include Monday, March 3, at Little Professor Bookshop in Birmingham, AL, with her podcast co-host Sophie Hudson; Tuesday, March 4, at Books-A-Million in Nashville, TN, with Sissy Goff and David Thomas; and on Thursday, March 6, at Blue Willow Bookshop at St. Thomas Presbyterian Church in Houston, TX, with Beth Moore.

Melanie Shankle is a four-time New York Times bestselling author of Here Be Dragons, Sparkly Green Earrings, The Antelope in the Living Room, and Nobody’s Cuter Than You. She speaks at events nationwide and co-hosts the wildly popular podcast, The Big Boo Cast. Melanie and her husband, Perry, live in San Antonio, Texas, and are the parents of Caroline. www.melanieshankle.com

WaterBrook is an imprint of PRH Christian Publishing Group, a division of Penguin Random House, LLC.

Contact:  Beverly Rykerd, VP/Publicity Director, brykerd@penguinrandomhouse.com

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Professor, scholar, and author Paul L. Maier dies at 94

March 3, 2025 by Sheri Toomb

GRAND RAPIDS, MI—Paul L. Maier, beloved professor emeritus at Western Michigan University, ancient history scholar, and author of the #1 national best-seller A Skeleton in God’s Closet, passed away February 27. He was 94.

As the former Russell H. Seibert professor of ancient history at Western Michigan University, Dr. Maier taught on campus for fifty-two years and spent thirty-nine of those years as the campus chaplain. After his retirement in 2011, he retained the professor emeritus title. In 2018, he was honored for his legacy at the school with the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award from Marquis Who’s Who, an award that recognizes individuals’ achievements of greatness in their industries.

Dr. Maier was a staunch, vigorous, and engaging defender of the faith, considered an expert in apologetics. He was noted for using both secular and non-secular sources to confirm the authenticity of the Bible. He led countless tours to the Holy Land and other biblical sites. As a world-renowned author and international speaker, Maier wrote endless articles and books, both fiction and nonfiction. His books with Kregel include the nonfiction titles, Eusebius; Josephus: The Essential Works; Josephus: The Essential Writings; In the Fullness of Time later updated and retitled The Genuine Jesus; and The First Christmas; and two novels, Pontius Pilate and The Flames of Rome.

Dr. Maier wasn’t just a scholar and best-selling author, he was also Paul, a genuine friend to others. Longstanding Kregel employees remember his visits to Kregel to pick up books. He’d leave with his Triumph Spitfire so weighed down by cartons that the muffler would scrape along the driveway as he left.

“Dr. Maier has been one of our most significant and best-selling authors in our 75-year publishing history,” president Jerry Kregel said. “We first published Josephus: The Essential Writings back in 1988, and that was later released as the updated full-color Josephus: The Essential Works. Those and most of his other titles published with us, including some published in Spanish by our Spanish division Editorial Portavoz, are still in print after so many years. Combined, his books have sold well over half a million copies and continue to provide valuable historical context for readers worldwide. As a professor, chaplain, speaker, and author, he has left a tremendous legacy.”

Publisher Catherine DeVries said, “I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Paul Maier at the Kregel home office a few times and witnessed his passion, dedication, motivation, incredible knowledge, and sense of humor with a sparkle in his eye, which I enjoyed most of all. He will be missed. I am grateful that his scholarship lives on through his books.”

Paul is survived by four daughters, ten grandchildren, two nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews. His daughters shared, “Our precious papa is now in glory with our mom, his parents, his brother, his friends, and most importantly with our beautiful Savior, welcoming him home.”

With his investment in the students at WMU, his expertise in his writing, and his relationships with family and friends, Dr. Maier has left a legacy that points directly to the love and salvation that comes from Jesus Christ.

Kregel Publications is an evangelical Christian publisher that aims to develop and distribute—with integrity and excellence—trusted, biblically based resources that lead individuals to know and serve Jesus Christ.

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6 HINDS' FEET ON HIGH PLACES
HANNAH HURNARD
7 A LINEAGE OF GRACE
FRANCINE RIVERS
8 HINDS' FEET ON HIGH PLACES: AN ENGAGING VISUAL JOURNEY
HANNAH HURNARD
9 THE KEEPER
CHARLES MARTIN
10 THE SHACK
WILLIAM PAUL YOUNG
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AMIR TSARFATI
2 LET THE JOURNEY BEGIN
MAX LUCADO
3 PRACTICING THE WAY
JOHN MARK COMER
4 THE 5 LOVE LANGUAGES
GARY CHAPMAN
5 JESUS CALLING
SARAH YOUNG
6 NEW MORNING MERCIES
PAUL DAVID TRIPP
7 JESUS CALLING FOR GRADUATES WITH SCRIPTURE REFERENCES
SARAH YOUNG
8 FORGIVING WHAT YOU CAN'T FORGET
LYSA TERKEURST
9 THE CASE FOR CHRIST
LEE STROBEL
10 JESUS CALLING FOR MOMS
SARAH YOUNG
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1 THE ACTION BIBLE
SERGIO CARIELLO
2 THE BEGINNER'S BIBLE
THE BEGINNER'S BIBLE
3 THE JESUS STORYBOOK BIBLE
SALLY LLOYD-JONES
4 THE WORLD NEEDS WHO YOU WERE MADE TO BE
JOANNA GAINES
5 WHEREVER YOU GO, I WANT YOU TO KNOW...
MELISSA B. KRUGER
6 GREAT AND SMALL PRAYERS FOR BABIES
PAMELA KENNEDY
7 MOSTLY WHAT GOD DOES IS LOVE YOU
SAVANNAH GUTHRIE
8 THE COMPLETE ILLUSTRATED CHILDREN'S BIBLE
JANICE EMMERSON
9 THE WORLD NEEDS THE WONDER YOU SEE
JOANNA GAINES
10 BEDTIME PRAYERS FOR LITTLE ONES
MAX LUCADO AND DENALYN LUCADO
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1 LIVE ON PURPOSE
SADIE ROBERTSON HUFF WITH BETH CLARK AND TAMA FORTNER
2 WELCOME TO ADULTING
JONATHAN POKLUDA AND KEVIN MCCONAGHY
3 SINGLE, DATING, ENGAGED, MARRIED
BEN STUART
4 THE PURPOSE DRIVEN LIFE SELECTED THOUGHTS AND SCRIPTURES FOR THE GRADUATE
RICK WARREN
5 THE 5-MINUTE BIBLE STUDY FOR TEEN GIRLS
CAREY SCOTT
6 POCKET PRAYERS FOR GRADUATES
MAX LUCADO
7 YOURS, NOT HERS
KARI KAMPAKIS
8 DO HARD THINGS
ALEX HARRIS AND BRETT HARRIS
9 GOD IS WITH YOU EVERY DAY
MAX LUCADO
10 THE PRAYER MAP FOR TEENS
COMPILED BY BARBOUR STAFF
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1 BIBLE PROMISES FOR MOMS
HEIDI ST JOHN
2 ONE-MINUTE INSIGHTS FOR MEN
JIM GEORGE
3 ONE-MINUTE INSPIRATIONS FOR WOMEN
ELIZABETH GEORGE
4 THE GOSPEL STORY
MARY WILEY
5 365 READ-ALOUD BEDTIME BIBLE STORIES
DANIEL PARTNER
6 KNOW YOUR BIBLE
PAUL KENT
7 MINI DEVOTIONS GRACE FOR TODAY
SOLLY OZROVECH
8 BIBLE PROMISE BOOK - KJV
BARBOUR PUBLISHING
9 199 PROMISES OF GOD
BARBOUR PUBLISHING
10 HEAVEN
RANDY ALCORN
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1 KJV BIBLE GIANT PRINT FULL SIZE BIBLE
CHRISTIAN ART PUBLISHERS
2 ESV CHURCH BIBLE
CROSSWAY
3 ESV STUDY BIBLE
PACKER, J. I.
4 CSB SHE READS TRUTH BIBLE, Grey
MYERS, RAECHEL
5 KJV PERSONAL SIZE LARGE PRINT REFERENCE BIBLE
HOLMAN BIBLE PUBLISHERS
6 ESV STUDENT STUDY BIBLE
CROSSWAY
7 NKJV PERSONAL SIZE LARGE PRINT REFERENCE BIBLE
THOMAS NELSON
8 NIV ADVENTURE BIBLE
ZONDERVAN
9 NIV THE WOMAN'S STUDY BIBLE
THOMAS NELSON
10 NIV LARGE PRINT VALUE THINLINE BIBLE
ZONDERVAN
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1 ESV ECONOMY BIBLE
CROSSWAY
2 ESV ECONOMY HOLY BIBLE FOR KIDS
CROSSWAY
3 ESV ECONOMY LARGE PRINT BIBLE
CROSSWAY
4 KJV ECONOMY BIBLE
THOMAS NELSON
5 NIV LARGER PRINT HOLY BIBLE, ECONOMY EDITION
ZONDERVAN
6 KJV GIFT & AWARD BIBLE, Black
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7 NIV ECONOMY BIBLE
ZONDERVAN
8 NLT LARGE PRINT ECONOMY HOLY BIBLE, OUTREACH EDITION
TYNDALE
9 NLT ECONOMY TEXT BIBLE
TYNDALE
10 NIV GIFT & AWARD BIBLE, Black
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1 New International Version
2 English Standard Version
3 King James Version
4 New Living Translation
5 New King James Version
6 Christian Standard Bible
7 Reina Valera
8 New International Reader's Version
9 New Revised Standard Version
10 New American Standard Bible
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B&H ESPANOL EDITORIAL
2 PERDONA LO QUE NO PUEDES OLVIDAR
LYSA TERKEURST
3 LOS 5 LENGUAJES DEL AMOR EDICION REVISADA
GARY CHAPMAN
4 EL PODER DE LA MADRE QUE ORA
STORMIE OMARTIAN
5 UNA MUJER SABIA
WENDY BELLO
6 EL PODER DE LA MUJER QUE ORA
STORMIE OMARTIAN
7 UNA MUJER CONFORME AL CORAZON DE DIOS
ELIZABETH GEORGE
8 UNA VIDA CON PROPOSITO
RICK WARREN
9 DE MENOS A MAS
RASHEL DIAZ
10 DESTINADO AL EXITO
DANTE GEBEL
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1 RVR1960 BIBLIA PARA REGALOS Y PREMIOS, Negro tapa dura
B&H ESPANOL EDITORIAL
2 RVR1960 BIBLIA PARA REGALOS Y PREMIOS, ROSA
B&H ESPANOL EDITORIAL
3 RVR1960 BIBLIA PARA REGALOS Y PREMIOS, Negro imitacion piel
B&H ESPANOL EDITORIAL
4 RVR1960 BIBLIA DEL PESCADOR LETRA GRANDE
DIAZ-PABON, LUIS ANGEL
5 RVR60 SANTA BIBLIA LETRA SUPERGIGANTE
RVR 1960- REINA VALERA 1960
6 RVR1960 BIBLIA PARA REGALOS Y PREMIOS, TURQUESA
B&H ESPANOL EDITORIAL
7 RVR1960 BIBLIA DE APUNTES
B&H ESPANOL EDITORIAL
8 RVR1960 SANTA BIBLIA EDICION PORTATIL CON CREMALLERA
RVR 1960- REINA VALERA 1960
9 RVR1960 BIBLIA LETRA GRANDE TAMANO MANUAL EDICION TIERRA SANTA
B&H ESPANOL EDITORIAL
10 RVR60 SANTA BIBLIA TIERRA SANTA LETRA GRANDE
VIDA
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1 LA GRAN HISTORIA DEL EVANGELIO
B&H ESPANOL EDITORIAL
2 PREOCUPATE MENOS Y ORA MAS
DONNA K. MALTESE
3 365 HISTORIAS BIBLICAS PARA LA HORA DE DORMIR
COMPILED BY BARBOUR STAFF
4 EL SECRETO DE LA PAZ PERSONAL
BILLY GRAHAM
5 DEMASIADO BENDECIDA PARA ESTAR ESTRESADA
DEBORA M. COTY
6 DEVOCIONALES DE 3 MINUTOS PARA HOMBRES
COMPILED BY BARBOUR STAFF
7 UN HOMBRE CONFORME AL CORAZON DE DIOS
JIM GEORGE
8 JESUS SALVA AL MUNDO
VIDA
9 ESTUDIO BIBLICO DE 5 MINUTOS PARA MUJERES
COMPILED BY BARBOUR STAFF
10 ESCOGE EL GOZO
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