Committee of industry leaders will help direct, evaluate and advise on ECPA programs that resource members’ efforts to enhance their publishing missions through diversity and inclusion.

TEMPE, ARIZ. – APRIL 26, 2021 — With the approval and guidance of the ECPA board, a new Diversity, Equity & Inclusion standing committee has been formed within ECPA.  The new committee will be chaired by board member Tina Constable, EVP and Publisher for WaterBrook and Multnomah Publishing Group. Constable also leads the Penguin Random House imprints of Convergent, Image, and Forum.

This committee will join ECPA’s five other standing committees chaired by ECPA board members and composed of ECPA publishers and affiliates, which oversee the following ECPA programs: Bestsellers, Events, Membership, Recognition, and Research.

“ECPA committees play a strategic role in advancing the mission of our industry to make the Christian message more widely known,” said ECPA president Stan Jantz. “The new Diversity, Equity & Inclusion committee will bring fresh energy and creativity to our mission as the committee members identify crucial topics and initiatives.”

“It is an honor to be a part of this new ECPA committee and help create initiatives and practices to best support diversity, equity and inclusion in all aspects of our publishing programs,” said committee chair Tina Constable.  “I am eager to open up this dialogue and look forward to working with this esteemed group of professionals in the months ahead.”

The committee members are:

Over the course of a 30-year publishing career, Tina Constable has served a wide variety of roles within Penguin Random House, Inc.,  including her current position as Executive Vice President and Publisher of the Christian imprints WaterBrook, Multnomah, Convergent, Image as well as the conservative imprint, Forum.  Tina’s varied experience has provided her a unique ability to bring a strategic and multi-faceted approach to many #1 bestselling books across a wide range of categories. Authors include President Barack Obama, President George W. Bush,  Tim Tebow, Jennie Allen, Michael Todd, Mark Batterson, Anne Graham Lotz, Michelle Obama, Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch, Charles Krauthammer, Condoleeza Rice, Peter Thiel, Jim Gaffigan, among numerous others. 

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Best-selling editor, writer, and literary agent, Jevon Bolden is CEO of Embolden Media Group, a boutique publishing consulting firm in sunny Florida. With seventeen years’ experience in publishing, Jevon shares the best of what she knows at conferences, workshops, and in coaching sessions with passionate, creative, and influential people who desire to publish great books that make a difference. Jevon has a bachelor’s degree in English, with a minor in sociology, from the University of Alabama in Huntsville.  She is also the founder of Christian Publishing Professionals of Color.  

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Peter Cerra currently serves as the President of SEPA (Spanish Evangelical Publishers Association) as well as Senior Director of Sales and Marketing for Editorial Portavoz (Kregel). With over 30 years of experience in the Christian publishing industry in many areas including Sales Forecasting, Sales and Marketing, his passion is to grow the Spanish Christian market globally.  

 

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Joyce Dinkins is an executive editor at Our Daily Bread Ministries (ODBM). Joyce builds relationships, acquires writers, edits, and manages publications. Her passion is inclusion and equity for diverse voices, entities, and audiences. Her work involves Our Daily Bread editions, Our Daily Bread Publishing books, ODB audible and film media. Before joining ODBM in 2015, she was managing editor for New Hope Publishers (Alabama), editor for NavPress (Colorado), and editor for David C. Cook (Illinois and Colorado). Joyce contributes around diversity, equity, and inclusion through publishing industry events, including Publishing in Color, ECPA PubU, and as a board member of the Academy of Christian Editors. 

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Ed Gilbreath is an editor, journalist, and author. He has served as the executive director of communications for the Evangelical Covenant Church, an editor for numerous magazines, the founding editor of UrbanFaith.com, and an executive editor at InterVarsity Press. He is currently the vice president of strategic partnerships at Christianity Today.     

 

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Maila Kim is a second-generation Hmong American. She received a B.A. in English Language & Literature and a B.A. in Communication Studies from the University of Michigan and an M.A. in Christian Formation & Ministry from Wheaton College Graduate School. Maila is a marketing manager at InterVarsity Press. She also serves on the steering committee of The Every Voice Now Initiative and is a co-host on The Every Voice Now Podcast. Maila lives in Illinois with her husband and is co-planting a church, The Prodigal Network. 

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Edwina Perkins is the assistant director of Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference. She is also the coordinator for Mentoring Moments and the manager for Sensitivity Between the Lines, both with BRMCWC. Edwina is an acquisitions editor for Harambee Press. As a longtime member of Word Weavers International, she now serves as a member of the advisory board. Edwina is an award-winning writer, experienced teacher, speaker, freelance editor, and a sensitivity reader. She is also a freelance writer for Guideposts. One of her passions is to address the need for sensitivity and diversity in the publishing industry.

The committee will meet, along with all of ECPA’s standing committees, on May 3^rd during the ECPA Virtual Leadership Summit.  Each committee will give a report at the ECPA Member Town Hall, held on May 6 at 10 am central – preceding the afternoon program of the ECPA Awards Celebration.

The Evangelical Christian Publishers Association (ECPA) is an international non-profit trade organization comprised of member companies that are involved in the publishing and distribution of Christian content worldwide. Since 1974, ECPA has strengthened Christian publishing by building networking, information, and advocacy opportunities within the industry and throughout multiple channels so that our members can more effectively produce and deliver transformational Christian content. For more information about ECPA: ECPA.org.

Media Contact:  Stan Jantz, ECPA president and CEO, 480-966-3998, sjantz@ecpa.org

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NOTE:  This release was updated in 2023 to add committee member Edwina Perkins and to correct committee name to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.

(Nashville, TN) April 19, 2021—Today HarperCollins Christian Publishing (HCCP) announced Angela Guzman as senior editor for the publishing team that works on refreshing and revitalizing previously published material.

Guzman has worked for HCCP for four years and has over 15 years of writing, editing, and publicity experience. She has worked with authors including Jack Countryman, John Eldredge, Bob Goff, Emily Ley, and Max Lucado. As senior editor, Guzman will work with HCCP’s extensive catalog to edit and refresh content that is still relevant today.

“Working on this team requires the spe­­­­cific skill to see not what is—but what can be, and Angela’s wide skillset in writing, editing, and publicity has prepared her well to approach content through this lens,” said Michael Briggs, senior director, Publishing. “I’m looking forward to big wins for our authors and publishers with Angela as senior editor.”

About HarperCollins Christian Publishing:  The world’s leading Christian publisher, HarperCollins Christian Publishing Inc., comprises the Thomas Nelson and Zondervan publishing groups, BibleGateway.com, FaithGateway.com and ChurchSource.com.  The Company produces bestselling Bibles, inspirational books, academic resources, curriculum, audio and digital content for the Christian market space.   Bible Gateway is the world’s largest Christian website with more than 20 million unique monthly visitors. HarperCollins Christian Publishing is headquartered in Nashville, TN with additional offices in the U.S. and Mexico.  For more information visit www.HarperCollinsChristian.com.

Contact: Chelsea Taff, Manager, Corporate Communications, 615.902.2137, Chelsea.Taff@HarperCollins.com

Santa Rosa, CA – Books & Such Literary Management, which was founded by innovator Janet Kobobel Grant in 1996, is celebrating 25 years serving its authors and the Christian publishing industry.

Grant says, “From the outset, I saw the agency as bigger than one person. That’s part of the reason I didn’t use my name for the agency. And I envisioned the possibility of dipping our toes into publishing-associated ventures, not necessarily just books. Only two other agencies focused on the Christian market when Books & Such began, and neither was headed by a woman. That left me feeling there was plenty of room to create what I envisioned.”

She adds, “As time went on, it became apparent that Books & Such was instinctively headed toward being women-centric. Since most readers are women, we brought a sensibility as to what those readers were yearning for in their books.”

The six Books & Such literary agents (Wendy Lawton, Rachel Kent, Cynthia Ruchti, Barb Roose, Mary DeMuth, and Grant) currently serve more than 200 clients and sell hundreds of projects each year. In 2020, five of the six agents exceeded their individual yearly sales goals.

“Sometimes it seems as though I’ve grown up with Books & Such,” notes Vicki Crumpton, Executive Editor of Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. “I barely remember a time in my career before Janet and then Wendy and then the wonderful team that’s come together over the years. Books & Such curates a fabulous stable of authors, cares for them and their proposals like family members,” Crumpton says, “and always makes my role as an acquiring editor a pleasure. They are absolutely Top Shelf in every way. Congratulations on the first 25 years…and here’s to many, many more.”

Among its year-long celebratory events, Books & Such is conducting a writing contest for unagented writers. Additionally, the team of agents will meet for a working retreat in the Sonoma, California, area. Whimsical polls and contests are ongoing with the Books & Such clients as well as bimonthly educational webinars.

With 25 years to celebrate, Books & Such Literary Management and its leader, Janet Grant, look ahead to continue serving its authors, the industry, and the reading community well.

Books & Such Literary Management

Ministers Daniel and Amber Pierce Recount Dramatic Stories of Life in Israel and How To Embrace Hope in The Midst of Devastating Events in ‘Joy in the War’

The Pierces share about their life and ministry, casting light on how they discerned their calling to Israel, submitted to the journey, and lived for a decade in a war zone

ORLANDO, Fla.— Ministers Daniel and Amber Pierce did not plan on getting stranded in the United States for more than a year when they traveled from their long-time residence in Jerusalem to attend the funeral of Amber’s father in their hometown of Dallas on March 6, 2020 – but that is exactly what happened. Prior to departing Israel, they stocked up on supplies in anticipation of a possible Israeli government-mandated Covid-19 quarantine upon their return. Within 48 hours of landing in Dallas, they started the process of stocking their U.S. home with enough food and supplies all over again, as the American government was preparing to take drastic measures in the fight against this invisible enemy.

In their compelling new book, Joy in the War: Expand Your Ability to Embrace Hope in the Heat of Battle (Charisma House, ISBN‐13: 978‐1‐62999‐982‐1), Daniel and Amber take on the current battle breaking down the hope of so many by sharing their own testimony, walked out over the past decade as they discerned their calling to Israel, submitted to the journey, and lived in the country: a place where war is a constant looming threat. Through the couple’s insights, they illuminate biblical truths that will help restore peace and joy, even during life’s toughest seasons.

“We can access the power of heaven and defeat death when we give the love of our own lives to the Lord,” writes Daniel. “The joy of the Lord becomes our strength in dark places, and it comes from the victory that we know lies before us. Jesus Himself was our example in this. He endured the suffering of the cross and experienced victory because He could see what lay before Him.”

Joy in the War is a unique book about finding hope in the midst of devastating events, including those happening in America and around the world. Daniel and Amber describe how these events can undermine our ability to experience the joy of the Lord. While living in Israel and under the ever-present fear of war, they spent a period of time in Ber’er Sheva (southern Israel) near the Gaza strip, where there was a constant military presence. The one-minute warning time between hearing the siren and a rocket’s impact, and frequent missile strikes that took place day and night, required a ‘safe room’ which was their daughter Lily’s bedroom, and where they would take shelter during the air attacks. Despite such overwhelming situations, the couple learned, Amber explains: “Sometimes it feels like the hardest thing in the world to walk out our trials in joy, but we must remember, as we develop an eternal perspective in God’s kingdom, He pours out His joy in a way that is overwhelming.”

“I hope reading Daniel’s and Amber’s words accomplishes its purpose: to produce wisdom that helps you outwit the enemy,” says Chuck Pierce, Daniel’s father, a bestselling author, and president of Glory of Zion International Ministries. “Most of all, I pray that this book helps you to fulfill your destiny—to enjoy life!”

The concepts shared by Daniel and Amber Pierce—part of the legacy family of Chuck Pierce— include:

• How to discern the times using God’s supernatural knowledge
• What to do when you are war-weary
• Understanding and honoring the covenant relationship with God
• Finding the joy of the Lord in the hard places
• Moving through trauma to joy and wholeness

Joy in the War will help readers better understand how, even in the midst of crisis and chaos, God can use joy as a weapon to tear down the attacks of the enemy and provide the spiritual bandwidth to overcome. And, that when aligned with His purposes, even the surrounding conflict and warfare cannot stop His joy from manifesting and releasing a strength and purpose that empowers us to triumph. Writes Daniel: “Joy strengthens us and allows us to not only endure hardship but also to gain strength and maturity from our struggles.”

For additional information, including a free sample chapter of Joy in the War, visit https://charismahouse.com/joy-in-the-war-by-daniel-and-amber-pierce/

Joy in the War: Expand Your Ability to Embrace Hope in the Heat of Battle, is released by Charisma House, which publishes books that challenge, encourage, teach, and equip Christians.

Daniel and Amber Pierce moved to Israel in January of 2011 and have been actively serving in ministry for over twelve years. Daniel and Amber spent several years building relationships with local leaders and serving in many capacities before following the Lord’s call to open and establish the GOZJ ministry center. This call originated out of a longing to worship the Lord in an atmosphere of spiritual freedom. Through this open door of worship, God quickly began to reveal needs in both local and international communities to experience and connect in freedom with the Holy Spirit in a stronger way. Daniel and Amber Pierce hosted “Rise as One” worship meetings in Jerusalem for over two years before establishing the GOZJ center.  Stay in touch with Daniel and Amber:

• Website: https://charismahouse.com/joy-in-the-war-by-daniel-and-amber-pierce/
• Instagram: @AmberPierce12 and @DanielPierce81

Title: Joy in the War: Expand Your Ability to Embrace Hope in the Heat of Battle | Retail: US $17.99 | Release Date: May 4, 2021 | ISBN‐13: 978‐1‐62999‐982‐1 | E‐Book ISBN: 978‐1‐62999‐983‐8 Binding: Trade paper | Size: 5.5” x 8.25” | Page Count: 208 | Hometown: Jerusalem | BISAC Category: RELIGION / Christian Living / Spiritual Growth RELIGION / Christian Living / Personal Growth RELIGION / Christian Living / Inspirational

To interview Daniel and Amber Pierce or for a review copy of Joy in the War: Expand Your Ability to Embrace Hope in the Heat of Battle, contact  Lklosterman@tkomarketing.net or chelsey@tkomarketing.net.

Evangelical Scholar Releases “Signs of the Messiah: An Introduction to John’s Gospel”  

Andreas J. Köstenberger Provides Insight on Signs, Plot and Messages in the Gospel of John

BELLINGHAM, Wash., April 15, 2021 – Andreas J. Köstenberger, Evangelical scholar, Research Professor of New Testament and Biblical Theology, and Director of the Center for Biblical Studies at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, provides a step-by-step journey through John’s unfolding narrative of Jesus the Messiah and Son of God in his new book from Lexham Press, “Signs of the Messiah: an Introduction to John’s Gospel.”

The book takes a theological deep dive into the life of Jesus from the Gospel of John, noting the many times He was asked for signs proving Him as Messiah. Köstenberger explores the seven signs Jesus gave throughout the book of John and why even with these miracles there was unbelief.

“John’s point is that people’s unbelief was their own fault. The problem was not that God, through Jesus, failed to provide tangible evidence that he was real. No, the problem was that people asked for signs, but when Jesus gave them a sign, they didn’t like the one he gave them and kept asking for more,” writes Köstenberger. “He fed the multitudes, he healed the sick, he even opened the eyes of a man born blind—and for an encore, he raised a dead man whose body had been in the tomb for four days. The core message of John is that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God. My hope and my prayer for you is that you might believe Jesus is the Son of God and find eternal, abundant life in him.”

“Signs of the Messiah” originated as a series of “For the Church Workshop” lectures Köstenberger gave at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary at the invitation of the school’s President Jason Allen.  When read in unison with the gospel of John, “Signs of the Messiah” further illuminates the core message of John and ultimately helps readers trust more fully in Jesus.

“It was Ernst Käsemann who said that the Gospel of John is shallow enough for a baby to wade in but deep enough for an elephant to drown. Andreas Köstenberger has been swimming in the deep end of the Johannine pool for a long time, and it shows in this easy-to-read guide to the theology of the Fourth Gospel, a theology of an eyewitness of Jesus himself,” said Ben Witherington III, Amos Professor of New Testament for Doctoral Studies at Asbury Theological Seminary. “Students and pastors alike will gain new insights into this crucial telling of the good news.”

To purchase now and learn more about “Signs of the Messiah,” visit  https://lexhampress.com/product/197331/signs-of-the-messiah-an-introduction-to-johns-gospel.

About Lexham Press
Lexham Press, a division of Faithlife, seeks to increase biblical literacy, thoughtful Christian reflection, and faithful action around the world by publishing a range of Bible study materials, scholarly works, and pastoral resources. For more information, visit https://lexhampress.com/.

About Andreas J. Köstenberger
Andreas J. Köstenberger is a research professor of New Testament and biblical theology and director of the Center for Biblical Studies at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has written numerous books, including “The Theology of John’s Gospel and Letters,” “Encountering John” and “The Cradle, the Cross, and the Crown: An Introduction to the New Testament.”

 

BISHOP T. D. JAKES ENCOURAGES EVERYONE TO COMMUNICATE BOLDLY AND EFFECTIVELY IN HIS NEW BOOK: DON’T DROP THE MIC

NASHVILLE, TN –Communication matters more now than ever before.  We use so many different platforms to reach our target audiences that even one misconstrued word or phrase can completely change the tone and meaning.

In DON’T DROP THE MIC (FaithWords, April 20, 2021, ISBN:9781455595358), Jakes, one of the world’s most widely respected orators, wants to empower everyone to communicate effectively.

“Communication, no matter how eloquent or effusive it may be, is incomplete if understanding isn’t achieved. Connecting with the recipient of your message is an essential element of successful communication because being understood is the ultimate objective. Words may be exchanged in a common language, but without understanding both the methods and manners, the message is usually incomplete.” – T.D. Jakes, DON’T DROP THE MIC

Drawing lessons from his own life, Jakes gives career advice for those who have or want to grow into a speaking career, but he also provides clear direction and insight for everyone who gives presentations, writes emails, or talks to other people in their job or home life.

Jakes helps readers understand:

• Why the way we speak and the words we use matter
• How speaking well, no matter your topic or audience, improves your chances of getting the result you want
• How to craft your message, whether it’s a simple email or a speech under the spotlights, to connect with listeners
• Why good communication is important for building connection and community
• How sharing God’s Word produces abundant fruit

DON’T DROP THE MIC is the guide we all need on how we can communicate more clearly, build community and share hope in our everyday lives. Whether you’re interviewing for a new position, proposing a new business plan, auditioning for a performance, delivering a report for your committee, teaching Sunday school, or sharing your heart with a loved one, this book will help.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
T. D. Jakes-one of the most inspirational, influential, and treasured spiritual leaders of our time-is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of more than forty books. He is the CEO of the towering TDJ Enterprises, spanning film, television, radio, publishing, podcasts, and an award-winning music label. He is a Grammy Award-winning music producer and his blockbuster films have achieved international success at the box office. His inspirational conferences (MegaFest, Woman Thou Art Loosed) continue to have a profound global impact. Bishop Jakes’ is a master communicator whose trusted voice is heard in more than 80 million homes daily and across a vast worldwide audience via social media. He resides in Dallas, Texas.

CAROL STREAM, Ill. (April 19, 2021)– Tyndale House Publishers (@tyndalehouse) and Hendrickson Publishing Group have announced that Hendrickson Publishing Group has been acquired by Tyndale House Publishers. “Hendrickson Publishing Group is a trusted house in our industry,” stated Jeff Johnson, president and COO of Tyndale House. “Their catalog of products and expertise in the academic sphere will be a perfect complement to Tyndale’s efforts in meeting the needs of readers seeking sound biblical content for reference and study.”

The Hendrickson Publishing Group, including its Rose Publishing imprints, will continue to operate autonomously from their current locations but will work under a united mission with Tyndale in making the Scriptures accessible and relevant to readers now and for the future. “In Tyndale we have found a GREAT home for the Hendrickson Publishing Group with similar values as our own,” noted Ray Hendrickson, president and CEO of Christianbook. “We believe our products and staff will continue to flourish and grow under this new structure.” Paul Hendrickson, general manager of the Hendrickson Publishing Group, commented that “it will be a privilege for our imprints and staff to strategically collaborate as part of the Tyndale House team.”

Since its founding in 1962, Tyndale House Publishers has been a voice to trust for generations of readers. Today, Tyndale is one of the largest independent Christian publishers in the world. Tyndale’s mission is to make the Bible accessible to as many people as possible in language that they can relate and respond to. Tyndale publishes the Holy Bible, New Living Translation (NLT) and offers nonfiction books that equip readers with Christ-centered insight, counsel, and life-improving stories. In addition, Tyndale publishes fiction from fresh new voices and celebrated authors alike, capturing the imagination of millions of readers. With a deep understanding of the importance of nurturing future generations, Tyndale also publishes children’s products that make God’s Word and wisdom come alive. Tyndale’s independent status allows it to follow its founding model, giving a majority of annual revenue—more than $110 million throughout its history—to charitable missions. With every book purchased, Tyndale readers help meet the physical and spiritual needs of people around the world.  Tyndale and Tyndale’s quill logo are registered trademarks of Tyndale House Ministries.

Founded in 1980, the Hendrickson Publishing Group (HPG) has a strong history of producing thoughtful books both for the scholarly academic community and general Christian readers. Through the Hendrickson Academic imprint, HPG seeks to meet the publication needs of the religious studies/ academic community worldwide with works on biblical languages, ancient Near Eastern studies and archaeology, theology, and religion and culture. Hendrickson Publishers offers an array of biblical reference books and a Bible publishing program, as well as Bible studies, books on Christian living topics, and perennial favorites like the Hendrickson Christian Classics series. Rose Publishing is an imprint of HPG creating full-color products—pamphlets, award-winning books, wall charts, DVD-based curriculum, and PowerPoint® resources. They are designed for personal, church, small group, and school use, and are packed with easy-to-understand diagrams, illustrations, maps, photos, charts, and time lines to bring Christian teachings to life.

New tool to help both church leaders and congregants grow in light of the Bible

BELLINGHAM, Wash., April 6, 2021 – Faithlife, the makers of Logos Bible Software, will host a live, online event on April 20 to unveil its newest, first-of-its-kind technology product set to revolutionize worship, discipleship and management for church leaders.

“Faithlife’s mission is to equip the Church to grow in light of the Bible,” said Faithlife co-founder and CEO Bob Pritchett. “We recognize the challenges church leaders face, especially in today’s complicated times when the way we previously ministered to congregants has changed significantly. We believe this new product will provide the tools necessary to ease every aspect of church business while ultimately empowering leaders to get to the heart of meeting the needs of their congregants wherever they may be.”

Unlike anything currently available, Faithlife’s new product offers both technological solutions and content. It will create both efficiency and effectiveness for church leaders, all within one simple online platform and for a low cost, while also offering congregants ways to better engage with both the church and with others.

“At Faithlife, we don’t believe tech tools should just be about making one’s job easier, but rather we believe technology should assist with spiritual growth, church involvement and community connectivity,” Pritchett said. “Not only does this new product offer church staff numerous ministry tools, but every congregant in the church will benefit from its resources.”

The development of Faithlife’s product began years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, but its relevance has only been solidified as churches of all sizes have been forced to navigate being the church online.

“Church leaders have been challenged over the past year in how to minister virtually and reach their congregants when physical gatherings are no longer possible,” said Pritchett. “We believe this product will simplify a church’s relationship with tech.”

Faithlife will reveal the new product and highlight its unique features during the Faithlife Live event on April 20 at 10 a.m. PDT / 1 p.m. EST. To register to attend, visit faithlife.com/reveal.

About Faithlife
Faithlife, based in Bellingham, Washington, with offices in Arizona and Mexico, has been using technology to equip the Church to grow in the light of the Bible for more than 25 years. Since 1992, Faithlife has developed a full suite of church management tools, academic study resources, smart digital books, and Logos Bible Software, all part of its integrated ministry platform that automates tasks and simplifies workflows. For more information, visit Faithlife.com.

Media Contact:  Kristin Cole, 615-289-6701  kristin@alarryross.com

Publishers Receive Highly Personalized Service and Industry Expertise

ASHLAND, Ohio, April 6, 2021 – Baker & Taylor Publisher Services (BTPS), a leading provider of sales and fulfillment services, is pleased to announce a new Christian publisher partner agreement.

BTPS has signed a full sales representation and distribution agreement with the following client:

• The Word for Word Bible Comic, effective immediately – US/CAN only

About BTPS’s new client publisher:
The Word for Word Bible Comic (https://www.wordforwordbiblecomic.com/) produces high quality graphic novels presenting Christian scripture. In addition to bold and historically accurate graphics, each book of the Bible is presented with the unabridged NIV text. Their first release is The Gospel of Matthew: Word for Word Bible Comic, publishing in September 2021, along with a corresponding Spanish-language edition utilizing the NVI translation.

About BTPS
Baker & Taylor Publisher Services (BTPS) is a leading provider of economical services and solutions to book publishers and content creators, with a robust worldwide reach to all trade and other book markets. BTPS services include sales and distribution, book manufacturing and inventory management, and third-party logistics. A division of Follett, BTPS serves client publishers who benefit from Follett and Baker & Taylor’s positions as major suppliers of public libraries, K-12 school markets and higher education institutions. For more information, please visit www.btpubservices.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Baker & Taylor Publisher Services, Matt Warner, 419-564-4931  Matthew.Warner@baker-taylor.com

New YA fiction addressing real-life issues faced by today’s preteen and teen girls

Publisher aims to provide a wholesome, age-appropriate alternative to secular junior romance novels

CAROL STREAM, ILL. (April 6, 2021)—Focus on the Family, in alliance with Tyndale House Publishers, released Real, Not Perfect and Searching for Normal on April 6, 2021, as part of a four-book YA fiction series, Riverbend Friends. The series follows four friends from the fictional town of Riverbend, Indiana, and aims to thoughtfully engage with real-life issues teenage girls face today, such as anxiety, loneliness, cyberbullying and sexual harassment, comparison and insecurity associated with social media, and challenges related to divorce and blended families.

Focus on the Family editors created the series out of a felt need for contemporary fiction that realistically addressed the grittier elements of teen life, but from a distinctly Christian worldview. “It’s not easy being a teen in today’s world. Girls need all the support they can get from people who understand what they’re going through,” says Steve Johnson, VP of Content Development and Integration at Focus on the Family. “Riverbend Friends characters are dealing with today’s tough issues, and they learn how to handle them in a Christian way. Our prayer is that these characters will come alongside teens, offering them the extra guidance they just might need.”

The third and fourth books in the series, The Me You See and Chasing the Spotlight, are scheduled to release in August 2021. Ultimately, Focus on the Family hopes Riverbend Friends will inspire girls to deepen their faith and face everyday problems in God-honoring ways.

For more information or for media inquiries, please contact Mariah León, mariahleon@tyndale.com.

Focus on the Family, which reaches about 38 million people in 120 countries, is a global faith-based ministry that helps families thrive. Tyndale House Publishers is pleased to partner with Focus on the Family to help provide trusted resources for strengthening believers in their faith and sharing the gospel; building resilient marriages that reflect God’s design; equipping parents to raise their children with a thriving faith; advocating for the preborn, orphaned, and life at every stage; and engaging the culture through a biblical worldview. Visit Focus at FocusOnTheFamily.com or on Facebook and Twitter.

Since its founding in 1962, Tyndale House Publishers has been a voice to trust for generations of readers. Today, it is one of the largest independent Christian publishers in the world. Tyndale has proved a faithful guide—helping readers discover the life-giving truths of the Bible. Its mission is to open God’s Word to as many as possible in language they can relate to and understand. Tyndale’s independent and nonprofit status allows it to follow its founding model, giving a majority of net income to charitable missions—more than $110 million throughout its history. With every book purchased, Tyndale readers help meet the physical and spiritual needs of people around the world.

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Real, Not Perfect
Riverbend Friends #1
By Stephanie Coleman
Softcover ISBN: 978-1-58997-704-4 | $14.99
240 pages | April 2021 | focusonthefamily.com

Searching for Normal
Riverbend Friends #2
By C. J. Darlington
Softcover ISBN: 978-1-58997-705-1 | $14.99
240 pages | April 2021 | focusonthefamily.com