(Nashville, TN) April 27, 2021 — HarperCollins Christian Publishing today announced the launch of HarperChristian Resources, a new imprint that will realign the company’s curriculum and study-based publishing strategy. The initiative will bring together all curriculum products previously published under Thomas Nelson or Zondervan under the new HarperChristian Resources imprint encompassing all church curriculum and small-group study resources  in order to streamline and strengthen HarperCollins Christian Publishing’s position in the Bible study market among ministries and churches.

Creating resources based off of book content published by Thomas Nelson and Zondervan, as well as other Christian trade book publishers, HarperChristian Resources will publish video Bible studies, Bible study guides, small group study guides, ministry programs, and church campaigns in both print and digital formats. HarperChristian Resources will also acquire original projects from leading Bible teachers.

John Raymond, vice president and publisher for HarperChristian Resources, commented, “We want to equip people to better understand the Scriptures, cultivate spiritual growth, and live an inspired faith with Bible study and video resources from today’s most trusted voices. Whether it is a video study based on a trade book or a study on a book of the Bible, we design our content to be used by individuals, small groups, or adult Sunday classes to enrich people who are seeking more biblical knowledge. We will partner with retailers and distributors, relying on our highly sought-after content, to create a consumer promise of exceptional, trustworthy resources that are based on the teachings of Jesus Christ.”

HarperChristian Resources will officially launch this summer. Curriculum products previously published under Thomas Nelson or Zondervan will be rebranded with HarperChristian Resources at reprinting. The imprint will feature familiar Christian teachers, pastors, and leaders such as Max Lucado, Lysa TerKeurst, Andy Stanley, Jennie Allen, Peter Scazzero, and Ann Voskamp, among others.

In addition, HarperChristian Resources will release an innovative approach to video Bible study access. With many new print study guides, purchasers will receive access to video streaming on any device, reducing the dependency on group leaders who generally purchase the video content and share it with study group members. This approach will begin with new titles including I Am Restored Video and Study Guide by Lecrae (July 2021), Nothing to Prove Video and Study Guide by Jennie Allen (July 2021), and Spiritual Warfare Is Real Video and Study Guide by Jim Cymbala (July 2021).

“Our curriculum titles are published with the most influential, life-changing content and done so with the highest quality,” said Don Jacobson, senior vice president and group publisher of Trade Books for HarperCollins Christian Publishing. “By aggregating all of our curriculum under one imprint within HCCP, we are better positioned to be highly competitive in retail spaces—both online and in brick and mortar stores.”

HarperChristianResources.com will serve as the marketing hub for the brand, with information about our Bible study teachers, titles, and topics. The site will also feature articles, tips, and encouragement for small group and Bible study leaders, powered by the ChurchSource blog and eCommerce platform.

For more information please visit www.harperchristianresources.com.

About HarperCollins Christian Publishing: The world’s leading Christian publisher, HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc. comprises the Thomas Nelson, Zondervan and HarperChristian Resources publishing groups, BibleGateway.com, FaithGateway.com, StudyGateway.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 visitors each month. HarperCollins Christian Publishing is headquartered in Nashville, Tenn. with additional offices in the U.S. and Mexico. For more information visit www.HarperCollinsChristian.com.

Contact: Casey Harrell, Senior Director, Corporate Communications, 615.902.1109 casey.harrell@harpercollins.com

Iron Stream Media is delighted to announce the acquisition of Brookstone Creative Group and Brookstone Publishing Group effective April 19, 2021. This acquisition will bolster J. Westin, the self-publishing arm of Iron Stream Media, as well as provide additional powerhouse resources for authors and speakers, including coaching, promotions, and a full range of publishing services. Both companies were founded upon servant leadership and that will continue under the Iron Stream Media banner.

With this acquisition, Suzanne Kuhn will become Associate Publisher of Iron Stream Media. Suzanne will continue working with the Brookstone Creative Group and Brookstone Publishing Group teams. She is passionate as ever about helping creatives hone their message, create great content, publish books they can be proud of, and one-on-one coaching. Suzanne brings more than thirty years of industry experience including publishing, marketing and retail. For twenty-two years, Suzanne worked closely with her husband in his co-owned independent bookstores. Before launching SuzyQ and subsequently Brookstone Creative Group and Brookstone Publishing, Suzanne worked with New York Times best-selling author Karen Kingsbury. She lives in Virginia.

Ramona Richards, current Associate Publisher, is transitioning toward retirement and will be staying on as part of the editorial team. She is happy to help Iron Stream Media going into this next season. Having worked together sporadically over the years, Suzanne is thrilled for the opportunity to work closely with Ramona.

Media Contact: Kim McCulla, kim.mcculla@ironstreammedia.com

Country-Gospel Singer Susie McEntire-Eaton to Host

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (April 28, 2021) — Publisher Thomas Nelson announced today that Jesus Calling by Sarah Young, the bestselling devotional brand that has sold more than 30 million units, will premiere the second season of its inspirational TV show, Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith, May 18 at 8:30 p.m. EST on Circle Network. Viewing options for the show are available at https://www.circleallaccess.com/watch, including over-the-air and streamers like Peacock, Roku, Samsung TV Plus, and more.

Based on the namesake book Jesus Calling^® (Thomas Nelson), the series is produced in partnership with Four Eyes Media and will share more inspirational stories of success, loss, heartbreak, and redemption told by people of faith from all walks of life. Host Susie McEntire-Eaton kicks off the second season with country music superstar Sara Evans and gospel music sensation Kierra Sheard-Kelly, followed by an A-list roster of guests including NFL Hall of Fame coach Tony Dungy, pop star Ally Brooke, MLB star Darryl Strawberry, country music star and Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith Season 1 host Lauren Alaina, NFL Hall of Fame quarterback Kurt Warner, and many more.

Additionally, the season will feature an exclusive interview of Susie talking with her sister, country music superstar Reba McEntire. The sisters will share their experiences growing up in the McEntire family, and how their lives were impacted by ranching, rodeo, and faith.

“I’m so excited to host the new season of Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith,” said McEntire-Eaton. “I know how much Jesus Calling has meant to me in my own faith walk, and I’m thrilled to share stories from others who have seen their lives changed and hope restored through this book.”

“We are thrilled to have Susie hosting Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith,” said Michael Aulisio, Vice President of Marketing for the Children’s & Gift Books Group at HarperCollins Christian Publishing. “Susie’s powerful story of resilience connected with countless viewers during our first season. Her warmth and sincerity will continue to inspire viewers all throughout this new season.”

Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith is a part of Circle’s two-hour Faith Block, airing from 8 – 10 p.m. ET on Tuesdays and 2 – 4 p.m. ET on Sundays.

“The diverse stories and guests featured on the first season of Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith resonated with our Circle viewers in an organic way, so we are excited to partner with Thomas Nelson and Four Eyes Media for a second time on season two,” said Teresa George, Circle VP of Strategic Partnerships. “The show was inspired by various country artists and celebrities who were transformed by their faith in God. We’ve enjoyed helping to bring these real stories of heartache and success to life, and look forward to continuing to do so in the new episodes to come.”

Since it was first published in 2004, the Jesus Calling brand has grown to include children’s devotionals, Bible storybooks, journals, seasonal books, an app, two ECPA Book of the Year awards for Jesus Today and Jesus Always, a print and digital quarterly magazine, a podcast that recently exceeded 7 million downloads, and a TV show. Author of Jesus Calling, Sarah Young, continues to be inspired by how the brand touches lives in new ways, including the TV show.

“I am delighted that Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith is returning for a second season,” said Young. “It’s wonderful to be associated with people who are willing to share their powerful faith stories and tell us how God is at work in their lives and in the world today.”

The Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith programming schedule—airing from Tuesday, May 18 through Sunday, August 8—includes:

Tuesday, May 18 @ 8:30 P.M. ET (re-airing Sunday, May 23 @ 2 p.m. ET)

Episode 1:  Faith to Shine the Light

Main Guest:  Sara Evans, Country Music Star

Guest 2:  Kierra Sheard-Kelly, Gospel Singer

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Tuesday, May 25 @ 8:30 P.M. ET (re-airing Sunday, May 30 @ 2 p.m. ET)

Episode 2:  Faith in Your Hour of Need

Main Guest:  Darryl Strawberry, MLB Star

Guest 2:  Kay Warren, author, wife of Pastor Rick Warren of The Purpose Driven Life

---

Tuesday, June 1 @ 8:30 P.M. ET (re-airing Sunday, June 6 @ 2 p.m. ET)

Episode 3:  Faith to Overcome Obstacles

Main Guest:  Kurt Warner, NFL Hall of Fame Quarterback

Guest 2:  Kurt Angle, Olympic Gold Medalist and WWE Superstar

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 Tuesday, June 8 @ 8:30 P.M. ET (re-airing Sunday, June 13 @ 2 p.m. ET)

Episode 4:  Faith to Believe in Love

Main Guest:  Chris & Emily Norton, Motivational Speakers/Authors

Guest 2:  Ally Brooke, Pop Singer

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Tuesday, June 15 @ 8:30 P.M. ET (re-airing Sunday, June 20 @ 2 p.m. ET)

Episode 5:  Faith to Be Restored

Main Guest:  Ryan Sheckler, Pro Skateboarder, Star of MTV’s Life of Ryan

Guest 2:  Russ Taff, Christian Musician

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Tuesday, June 22 @ 8:30 P.M. ET (re-airing Sunday, June 27 @ 2 p.m. ET)

Episode 6:  Faith in Things Not Seen

Main Guest:  Lauren Alaina, Country Music Star

Guest 2:  Raleigh Keegan, Country Music Artist

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Tuesday, June 29 @ 8:30 P.M. ET (re-airing Sunday, July 4 @ 2 p.m. ET)

Episode 7:  Faith Over Fear

Main Guest:  Nik Wallenda, Tightrope Walker

Guest 2:  Collin Raye, Country Music Star

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Tuesday, July 6 @ 8:30 P.M. ET (re-airing Sunday, July 11 @ 2 p.m. ET)

Episode 8:  Faith to Become Who We’re Meant to Be

Main Guest:  Rashad Jennings, Former NFL Player, Dancing with the Stars winner

Guest 2:  Michael Franzese, Public Speaker, Former Mob Boss

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Tuesday, July 13 @ 8:30 P.M. ET (re-airing Sunday, July 18 @ 2 p.m. ET)

Episode 9:  Faith to Be Different

Main Guest:  Lathan Warlick, Country Music Artist

Guest 2:  Col. Carlyle “Smitty” Harris, Veteran POW, Hanoi Hilton Survivor

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Tuesday, July 20 @ 8:30 P.M. ET (re-airing Sunday, July 25 @ 2 p.m. ET)

Episode 10:  Faith & Family First

Main Guest:  David Crowder, Christian Music Worship Artist

Guest 2:  High Valley, Country Music Duo

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Tuesday, July 27 @ 8:30 P.M. ET (re-airing Sunday, Aug. 1 @ 2 p.m. ET)

Episode 11:  The Faith of Two Sisters

Main Guests:  Reba McEntire & Susie McEntire-Eaton, Country Music Singers

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Tuesday, Aug. 3 @ 8:30 P.M. ET (re-airing Sunday, Aug. 8 @ 2 p.m. ET)

Episode 12:  Passing the Faith Along

Main Guest:  Tony Dungy, NFL Hall of Fame Coach

Guest 2:  Daryle Singletary Tribute (Country Music Artist) with wife Holly Singletary

 

* Susie McEntire-Eaton available for interviews*

ABOUT CIRCLE:  Circle is a media network dedicated to celebrating the country lifestyle and putting fans inside the circle of everything country. Circle offers entertainment news, documentaries, movies, archival, new and licensed programming, Grand Ole Opry performances, and more. The network recently announced ad-support streaming distribution partnerships with Redbox, Peacock, The Roku Channel, Samsung TV Plus, XUMO and VIZIO Free Channels, bringing its country lifestyle programming to millions more through TVs, smart phones and tablets. Named Digiday’s 2021 Best Streaming TV Platform and Pollstar’s #1 Livestreamer for 2020, Circle is a joint venture between Opry Entertainment Group, a subsidiary of Ryman Hospitality Properties, and Gray Television.

ABOUT SUSIE MCENTIRE-EATON:  Susie McEntire-Eaton is the product of a third-generation ranching/rodeoing family from the hills of Southeastern Oklahoma. Raised in a house with four children who cut their teeth on ranch work, sports, singing, and rodeo, Susie says all of these activities helped mold her values and shape her character into the woman she is today. “My mama and daddy didn’t have a lot of money,” she says, “but they had determination and a great work ethic. They instilled that in us, and gave us lots of opportunities.”

Susie started singing in front of a crowd in 2nd grade, and appeared onstage with her brother and sister as “The Singing McEntires” in high school and toured with Reba from 1980–1982. She also appeared with Reba on The Opry, The Johnny Carson Show, and Hee Haw.

In 1984, Susie said yes to God to sing for a different purpose. She was on fire to share her message, and the world opened up as Susie and her young family traveled across the globe and Susie performed as a country gospel singer. In the meantime, she recorded 17 albums.

Since 2007, Susie has served as a co-host of Cowboy Church on RFD-TV and The Cowboy Channel. A seasoned performer with an amazing story, Susie is a member of the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame who has a unique ability to connect with audiences everywhere and instantly make them feel like friends.

ABOUT THOMAS NELSON:  Thomas Nelson is a world leading publisher and provider of Christian content and has been providing readers with quality inspirational product for more than 200 years. As part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., the publishing group provides multiple formats of award-winning Bibles, books, gift books, cookbooks, curriculum and digital content, with distribution of its products in more than 100 countries. Thomas Nelson is headquartered in Nashville, TN. For additional information visit www.thomasnelson.com.

Contacts:            

• Circle:  Teresa George, tgeorge@circleplus.com | Sunshine Sachs, circle@sunshinesachs.com
• Susie McEntire-Eaton: Mark Eaton, mark@eatonleadership.org
• Thomas Nelson:  Natividad Lewis, natividad.lewis@harpercollins.com

New Book to Revolutionize Preaching through Simple Habits, Practices and Exercises

BELLINGHAM, Wash., April 28, 2021 – In a world where bigger is always better, author Jonathan T. Pennington presents a countercultural idea by challenging pastors to focus on smaller habits that produce big results over time. In his new book, “Small Preaching: 25 Little Things You Can Do Now to Make You a Better Preacher,” published by Lexham Press, Pennington provides constructive teaching steps to guide pastors toward intentional and effective preaching.

In “Small Preaching,” Pennington, who is an associate professor of New Testament Interpretation at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and is also on the preaching staff at Sojourn East in Louisville, Kentucky, walks through 25 words of wisdom that will help shape pastors’ preaching for the better.

“‘Small Preaching’ is not a book on the philosophy or practice of preaching, but rather a collection of short, easily digestible essays which invite the reader to see the world differently,” said Pennington. “The essays are dynamic and provide various approaches, topics, content and modes to challenge the reader’s assumptions and habits on leadership and preaching.”

Drawing on years of teaching and education, Pennington brings specific expertise to write this timely and impactful book. Hoping that small ideas can have big consequences, Pennington explains the value of playing the long and methodical game with displaying sincerity and intentionality.

“Pennington so helpfully reminds us that preaching is a ‘slow art’ and he pays attention to things not usually covered in traditional books on preaching, things which, nonetheless, are so much a part of the real-life of the preaching task,” said Mike Bullmore, senior pastor of Crossway Community Church. “This book is stimulating and provocative, and it will make you think about your preaching. That, in turn, will bear good fruit, maybe even as soon as this coming Sunday.”

Highlighted topics of discussion within “Small Preaching” include:

• The Person of the Preacher,
• Handling Praise Carefully and Gladly,
• Handling Criticism Carefully and Humbly,
• The First Minute of a Sermon,
• The Last Minute of a Sermon and
• Distinguishing between Preaching and Teaching.
• “I hope this book helps both preachers who are just starting to hone their skills and seasoned ministers alike,” said Pennington. “All [the essays] invite you to consider small changes that can add up to big effect, no matter whether you are about to start at your first church, or are an old pro. So come and start small.”

To learn more about “Small Preaching” visit, https://lexhampress.com/product/197374/small-preaching-25-little-things-you-can-do-now-to-make-you-a-better-preacher.

About Lexham Press
Lexham Press 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 the Author
Jonathan T. Pennington is associate professor of New Testament interpretation and director of research doctoral studies at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is also a preaching pastor at Sojourn East Church in Louisville, Kentucky. Pennington is the host and co-producer of the video series Cars, Coffee, Theology and the author of numerous books, including Reading the Gospels Wisely and Jesus the Great Philosopher.

Media Contact: Brooke Lawless, 972-267-1111 brooke@alarryross.com

[NASHVILLE, TENN., May 3, 2021—] Award-winning singer-songwriter and author Andrew Peterson will release his much-anticipated second adult trade book, “The God of the Garden: Thoughts on Creation, Culture, and the Kingdom,” this fall (October 26, 2021, B&H Publishing).

“The God of the Garden” is an intimate memoir about Peterson’s encounters with God in creation, specifically trees. Writing from his beloved property in Nashville, Tenn., Peterson hopes readers will see through his story that the God of the Garden is and has always been present, working and keeping what he loves. Sometimes he plants, sometimes he prunes, but in his goodness he intends to reap a harvest of righteousness.

“The pandemic meant I was grounded from touring for a solid year. I didn’t realize I would be grounded in good ways, too,” Peterson said. “In twenty-five years, I had never been home for the entirety of spring. I had no idea how lovely it could be. I had never watched the slow change of all four seasons through my own window. It was a great blessing to use that time to reflect on the many ways God speaks through his creation. The early Christians believed there were two books of revelation: the book of scripture, and the book of nature. ‘The God of the Garden’ is the story of what I learned from both.”

Peterson’s first adult trade book, “Adorning the Dark,” (October 2019, B&H Publishing) received several notable book awards from The Gospel Coalition and “Christianity Today” and accolades from many top authors as one of the top books of 2019.

Peterson is the author of the award-winning, bestselling series for young readers, “The Wingfeather Saga,” four fantasy-adventure novels that were later adapted into a short film. The second book in the series, “North! Or Be Eaten” (2009) won the Christy Award for Young Adult Fiction, and the fourth, “The Warden and the Wolf King” (2014) won Children’s Book of the Year in 2015 from “WORLD Magazine.”

In 2008, driven by a desire to cultivate a strong Christian arts community, Peterson founded a ministry called The Rabbit Room, which led to a yearly conference, countless concerts and symposiums, and Rabbit Room Press, which has published 30 books to date.

“An author like Andrew Peterson comes around once in a generation,” says Devin Maddox, Books Publisher at B&H Publishing. “This book, ‘The God of the Garden,’ has a quality that gives the reader a sense that he or she is experiencing something that others will consider significant 50 years from now. It’s an unbelievable honor, a tremendous stewardship, for B&H to assist Andrew in his work.”

“The God of the Garden” is now available for pre-order wherever books are sold. For more information, visit bhpublishing.com.

Andrew Peterson is an award-winning singer-songwriter and author. The second book in his “Wingfeather Saga,” “North! Or Be Eaten” (2009) won the Christy Award for Young Adult Fiction, and the fourth, “The Warden and the Wolf King” (2014) won Children’s Book of the Year in August 2015 from “WORLD Magazine.”

In 2008, driven by a desire to cultivate a strong Christian arts community, Andrew founded a ministry called The Rabbit Room, which led to a yearly conference, countless concerts and symposiums, and Rabbit Room Press, which has published 30 books to date.

He’s been married for 24 years to his wife Jamie, with whom they have three children. His eldest is an animation student at Lipscomb University, his second son is a touring drummer and record producer and his daughter recently released her first album. In his spare time Andrew keeps bees, builds dry stack stone walls, gardens, draws and sleeps.

B&H Publishing Group, an imprint of Lifeway Christian Resources, is a team of mission minded people with a passion for taking God’s Word to the world. Because we believe Every Word Matters® we seek to provide intentional, Bible-centered content that positively impacts the hearts and minds of people, inspiring them to build a lifelong relationship with Jesus Christ. Among our print and digital releases for the trade, church, and academic markets, titles include “The New York Times” No. 1 bestsellers “The Love Dare” and “The Vow,” No. 1 CBA bestseller “I Am a Church Member,” as well as the newly-revised Christian Standard Bible (CSB) version.

 

Nashville, Tenn. (April 29, 2021)—HarperCollins Christian Publishing (HCCP) today announced the promotions of Nikki Getman to marketing v-p for the Thomas Nelson Bibles team and Bob Gaudet to marketing v-p for the Zondervan Bibles team.

Getman and Gaudet lead their respective marketing teams and shape the overall strategies for Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Bible products, continuing to build innovative partnerships and discover creative ways to reach consumers.

Getman joined the Thomas Nelson Bibles team four years ago and has over 20 years of marketing experience, with a focus in online consumer engagement strategy. During her time at Thomas Nelson, she has led the marketing strategies for major projects including the NET Bible line, the Comfort Print® initiative, the Abide Bible line, and Catholic Bible Press. Getman earned her Master of Science in integrated marketing communications from Northwestern University.

Gaudet has been with Zondervan for five years and has a background in Christian academic sales and marketing. He has played a critical role in the audience-centric strategy for publishing the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) and New American Standard Bible (NASB) Bible translations. He has also stewarded the successful launch of the NIV Study Bible, Fully Revised Edition. Gaudet earned his Master of Divinity from Virginia Beach Theological Seminary.

“Nikki and Bob have proven themselves over the past few years as not only excellent marketers but also excellent teammates and leaders,” said John Kramp, senior v-p, group publisher, Bibles and Spanish. “I look forward to the ways they will lead the Thomas Nelson Bibles and Zondervan Bibles marketing teams to reach people with the Word of God.”

About HarperCollins Christian Publishing: The world’s leading Christian publisher, HarperCollins Christian Publishing Inc., comprises the Thomas Nelson, Zondervan, and HarperChristian Resources 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: Casey Harrell, Senior Director, Corporate Communications, 615.902.1109 Casey.Harrell@HarperCollins.com

 

Ada, Mich. (April 29, 2021)—Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, is pleased to announce that Lynette Eason has reached a significant sales milestone. Eason began publishing with Revell in 2010 with her book Too Close to Home.  Now eleven years later, she has written 26 novels under the Revell imprint with over one million copies sold. Revell has been the exclusive publisher of Lynette’s trade length novels for her entire career.

Lynette Eason is ranked as one of the top romantic suspense authors. Her bestselling series include: Blue Justice, Women of Justice, Deadly Reunions, Hidden Identity, Elite Guardians, and her most recent series, Danger Never Sleeps. Her newest novel, Hostile Intent (Revell; ISBN 9780800729370; Ebook ISBN 9781493430369; paper; 320 pp; $15.99), releases in August 2021 and is the final book in this series.

Eason is the winner of three ACFW Carol Awards, the Selah Award, and the Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award, among others. She is a graduate of the University of South Carolina and has a master’s degree in education from Converse College. Eason lives in South Carolina with her husband and two children. Learn more at www.lynetteeason.com.

Andrea Doering, editorial director for Revell, stated, “From the first lines we read of Lynette’s work in 2008 until now, each novel delivers just what readers are looking for—and then some. It has been such a privilege for us to work with her in bringing her talented stories to readers everywhere. We look forward to continuing our journey together for many years to come.”

Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, publishes books that help bring the Christian faith to everyday life. Whether through fiction, Christian living, self-help, marriage, family, or youth books, each Revell publication reflects relevance, integrity, and excellence.

Contact: Karen Steele, (616)676-9185 x100 ksteele@bakerpublishinggroup.com

WESTMONT, IL—The Best Christian Workplaces Institute (BCWI), a research-based organizational and human resources consulting firm, has announced that InterVarsity is certified as a 2021 Best Christian Workplace.

To achieve certification, organizations must complete the Best Christian Workplaces Institute employee engagement survey and meet predetermined standards of excellence. Employees of IVP answered more than fifty questions measuring employee satisfaction in terms of organizational commitment, Christian witness, supervisory effectiveness, opportunities for personal growth and development, teamwork, communication, and fairness of pay and benefits. Additional open-ended questions provided an opportunity for department managers to gain insight into what employees think and ways they might improve.

“It seemed a bit risky to have Al Lopus and his team administer the Best Christian Workplaces Institute engagement survey after thirteen months of a global health pandemic that had required extreme resilience and adaptation on the part of our staff, but I’m so glad that we took that step,” Jeff Crosby, IVP publisher, said. “I was grateful to see our engagement scores increase significantly and attribute that to the exceptional work of both our senior leadership team and staff from throughout our organization, who demonstrated an incredible commitment to our mission, our authors, our customers, and each other throughout a challenging year.”

With ninety-three employees, IVP had an exceptional 98 percent of staff engagement. BCWI describes staff engagement as the degree to which employees are emotionally and spiritually connected and committed to their organization and their role, exerting discretionary effort for the betterment of the organization and those they serve.  IVP’s overall scores were on the margin between a “healthy” and a “flourishing” organization. IVP also had the second highest total since the organization started taking the BCWI survey more than ten years ago.

Al Lopus, CEO and cofounder of BCWI and author of The Road to Flourishing (IVP, Spring 2022), said, “We find that InterVarsity Press models the characteristics that define being a Best Christian Workplace based on their employees’ feedback. Their BCWI survey results highlight that their employees are passionate about working together to produce exceptional, high-quality books. They also appreciate the supportive, high-trust culture their leaders create, especially this past year during the Covid-19 pandemic. Employees repeatedly commented about the care they experience from their leaders and each other, making IVP a great place to work.”

Crosby said, “In his manuscript of his forthcoming InterVarsity Press book on organizational flourishing, Al Lopus writes, ‘When I use the term employee engagement, I mean that team members are motivated to bring their fullest contribution—their unique giftedness and creativity—to their role in the organization for the sake of its success.’ That’s how I view the 2021 certification of IVP as a Best Christian Workplace. It’s a portrait of the work, the giftedness, and the creativity of my colleagues here.”

Crosby added, “In some ways, a flourishing organization is like a riddle to be solved or like a thousand-piece jigsaw puzzle waiting to be assembled. It’s challenging to decipher and put together, but when we do, a vibrant picture emerges, and we can celebrate the work of God—and each other—in our midst.”

Best Christian Workplaces Institute’s purpose is to serve faith-based organizations by creating processes of discovery, facilitating organizational effectiveness, and encouraging practices that build healthy workplaces.

Contact:  Krista Clayton | 630.734.4013 | kclayton@ivpress.com

Carol Stream, Ill. – April 30, 2021.  On Thursday, May 13, 2021, bestselling authors Francine Rivers and T. I. Lowe will host an online, interactive discussion about their upcoming projects. The event will kick off at 7 p.m. CT and will be moderated by Tyndale fiction publisher Karen Watson.

• Bestselling Author Francine Rivers and T. I. Lowe Online Book Discussion
• Registration Link: https://www.workcast.com/register?cpak=4364702525675268&referrer=pressrelease
• Date: Thursday, May 13, 2021
• Time: 7:00 p.m. CT / 8:00 p.m. ET

This free, live online event will pair legendary author Francine Rivers with T. I. Lowe, a bright new voice in contemporary women’s fiction. T. I. Lowe is the author of bestselling novel Lulu’s Café, the Carolina Coast series, and upcoming novel Under the Magnolias, a gritty yet tender coming-of-age story.

Francine and T. I. will discuss their Redeeming Love connection, Southern fiction, and how they write fiction that’s grounded in truth. They will also discuss what’s next for Francine, as well as T. I. Lowe’s new novel, Under the Magnolias.

Under the Magnolias introduces readers to Austin Foster, who is barely a teenager when her mama dies giving birth to twins, leaving her to pick up the pieces while holding her six siblings together and doing her best to stop her daddy from retreating into his personal darkness.

Scratching out a living on the family’s tobacco farm is as tough as it gets. When a few random acts of kindness help to ease the Fosters’ hardships, Austin finds herself relying upon some of Magnolia’s most colorful citizens for friendship and more. But it’s next to impossible to hide the truth about the goings-on at Nolia Farms, and Austin’s desperate attempts to save face all but break her.

Just when it seems she might have something more waiting for her—with the son of a wealthy local family who she’s crushed on for years—her father makes a choice that will crack wide-open the family’s secrets and lead to a public reckoning. There are consequences for loving a boy like Vance Cumberland, but there is also freedom in the truth.

Fans of Francine Rivers and T. I. Lowe can register now.

For more information please contact Isabella Graunke at isabellagraunke@tyndale.com or 630-784-5298.

Francine Rivers has published numerous novels—all bestsellers—and she has continued to win both industry acclaim and reader loyalty around the globe. Her Christian novels have been awarded or nominated for many honors, and in 1997, after winning her third RITA Award for inspirational fiction, Francine was inducted into the Romance Writer’s of America Hall of Fame. In 2015, she received the Lifetime Achievement Award from American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). Francine’s novels have been translated into over 30 different languages, and she enjoys bestseller status in many foreign countries. She and her husband, Rick, enjoy spending time with their children and grandchildren.

I. Lowe is an ordinary country girl who loves to tell extraordinary stories and is the author of nearly twenty published novels, including her debut, Lulu’s Café, a number one bestseller. She lives with her husband and family in coastal South Carolina.

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.

Carol Steam, Ill. (April 30, 2021) — This summer, Tyndale House Publishers will release a 40-day compilation of hope and encouragement for healthcare heroes.

Healthcare workers are trained to be strong and stoic, but behind the mask there is fear, frustration, and exhaustion. Especially in these days of COVID-19, healthcare workers are suffering from their own epidemic of burnout and emotional injury as a result of dwindling resources and being overworked.

Author and registered nurse Amy Sorrells wants healthcare heroes to know there is hope for weary feet and exhausted souls! She created 40 Days of Hope for Healthcare Heroes to provide hope for all healthcare workers: doctors, nurses, pharmacists, PTs, OTs, STs, MAs, social workers, chaplains, aides, hospital security, and everyone in between.

In 40 Days of Hope for Healthcare Heroes readers will find inspiration and prayers to help renew their faith and focus, center their heart, and be inspired to rededicate themselves to the medical career they love. This beautifully designed giftbook combines short stories from the front lines, “Breakroom Boosts” to encourage and energize, space to journal, and prayers that are quick enough to recite during handwashing—something that occurs multiple times a day. Healthcare workers across all continuums of care will want to read this book to rediscover the joy of their calling and experience a balm of relief for their caregiving soul.

Amy Sorrells has created a special Facebook page to celebrate healthcare heroes and those who love them. Users are invited to share photos and articles about the healthcare heroes in their life. In addition, this special Facebook page provides a place where healthcare workers can find tips and suggestions for selfcare. Posts can be COVID-related, or about someone who has inspired them in their medical career.

As both an author and a nurse, Amy Sorrells knows firsthand about broken places, and her overarching mission has always been to provide people with hope in the midst of brokenness. A graduate of DePauw University in Indiana, Amy studied creative writing and nursing. A registered nurse and respected administrator for over twenty-seven years, she writes, edits, and designs hundreds of patient- and staff-focused publications. Author of the award-winning How Sweet the Sound and three other novels, she is also a former weekly columnist for the Zionsville Times Sentinel newspaper. Amy’s professional, medical writing has been featured in national journals such as Healthcare Design, Nursing Economics, Indiana Nursing Quarterly, and the American Journal of Critical Care.

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.