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Pastor Erwin Lutzer equips Christians to respond bravely to a rapidly changing American culture

November 2, 2020 by Sheri Toomb

“If I could, I would put this book into the hands of every Christian in America.”
—Dr. David Jeremiah 

EUGENE, Ore. (October 19, 2020) – Every day, it seems American society is falling further away from Christian values and common decency and Christians are left unsure of how to respond. In his latest book, We Will Not Be Silenced: Responding Courageously to Our Culture’s Assault on Christianity (Harvest House Publishers, October 2020), Dr. Erwin W. Lutzer equips readers with the truth of Scripture to help live out their convictions against a growing tide of hostility.

“This book examines every cultural issue we are facing,” writes pastor David Jeremiah in the foreword of Lutzer’s new book. “Nothing is left out. It addresses diversity issues, racial issues, gender issues, social justice issues, media issues, issues of free speech, and issues rooted in socialism and Marxism. Most importantly, it covers issues related to the church and how it is responding to all of this.”

We Will Not Be Silenced arms believers with a deeper understanding of the hurts and concerns of nonbelievers with regard to social issues so the church is able to respond in a compassionate and gentle manner without affirming their secular beliefs. Lutzer longs to see Christians unashamedly uphold biblical values and the core principles of liberty in a way that responds effectively to a culture lost in spiritual darkness.

In a time where the truth of the Bible is under siege, Lutzer is providing a valuable resource to restore the church to its rightful place in the world.

“What a special privilege it is to be called to represent Christ at this pivotal moment of history,” Lutzer writes. “We are called for such a time as this. And we must pray that our light might shine more brightly than ever in our darkening world.”

About the Author:
Erwin W. Lutzer is the Pastor Emeritus of The Moody Church, where he served as the senior pastor for 36 years. A graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary and Loyola University, he is the author of numerous books, including the Gold Medallion Award winner Hitler’s Cross and the best-seller One Minute After You Die. He is also a teacher on radio programs heard on more than 700 stations throughout the United States and the world, including Songs in the Night, The Moody Church Hour, and the daily feature Running to Win. He and his wife, Rebecca, live in the Chicago area and have three married children and eight grandchildren.

About the Publisher:
Harvest House, a Christian publishing company based in Eugene, Oregon, publishes more than 100 books per year and carries a strong backlist offering more than 1,300 titles. Over 140 million Harvest House books have been sold worldwide through diverse distribution channels, and additional millions have sold in over 75 different languages.

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Candace Cameron Bure announces 3rd Children’s book with Zonderkidz: “Candace’s Playful Puppy”

November 2, 2020 by Sheri Toomb

November 2, 2020, Grand Rapids, Mich. — Zonderkidz, the children’s division of Zondervan, is pleased to share actress and author Candace Cameron Bure’s announcement about her next children’s book with Zonderkidz: Candace’s Playful Puppy which will release January 26, 2021.

Cameron Bure announced her new children’s picture book on her social platforms – with “help” from her own dog Boris. This announcement was paired with an exclusive interview with Today.com and was featured on The Today Show’s related digital platforms on October 16.

Her announcement:  https://www.instagram.com/p/CGpf5umBING/

Today.com link:  https://www.today.com/popculture/candace-cameron-bure-announces-3rd-children-s-book-candace-s-t195313

Candace’s Playful Puppy is for every boy or girl who has ever wanted a dog and every parent who knows the responsibility that goes along with caring for a new pet. It is a story of a little girl who visits a pet shelter to adopt a cuddly new dog and comes home with a rambunctious pup instead. Candace’s Playful Puppy is a picture book for ages 4 to 8 that teaches kids how to be faithful to their commitments, to never give up when they face a tough situation, and that patience is a skill that takes a lot of practice and hard work.

Her first picture book, Candace Center Stage (2018) is about a little girl named Candace who loved to dance. Her second book, Grow, Candace, Grow (2020) is a charming tale of Candace learning to be patient when growing a garden. Grow, Candace, Grow was a bestseller on the Publishers Weekly Children’s List as well as the ECPA Christian Children’s list earlier this year.

Candace’s Playful Puppy

  • Written by New York Times bestselling author Candace Cameron Bure, illustrated by Christine Battuz
  • On sale: Jan 26, 2021
  • ISBN: 9780310769026
  • 32 pages, picture book for ages 4-8, published by Zonderkidz

Contact: Jessica Westra, Jessica.westra@harpercollins.com, 616.403.6628

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“The #MeToo Reckoning” selected as one of Publishers Weekly’s best Religion books of 2020

November 2, 2020 by Sheri Toomb

WESTMONT, IL—As part of its Best Books of 2020, Publishers Weekly has selected The #MeToo Reckoning: Facing the Church’s Complicity in Sexual Abuse and Misconduct by Ruth Everhart as one of the best religion books of the year.

The PW website posting says, “Everhart, a Presbyterian pastor, uses her own chilling story of sexual abuse to ground this resonant call to action for Christian communities to reject patriarchal systems and end widespread sexual abuse within American churches. Everhart’s voice is bold, and the many shocking statistics she cites bolster her affecting appeal for change.” 

Al Hsu, senior editor for IVP, said, “When I saw the proposal for Ruth Everhart’s The #MeToo Reckoning, I knew that this was a prophetic word for us today. I was struck by her courage in telling her story and the strength of her no-holds-barred takedown of the religious power structures that have aided and abetted abusers. I am thrilled at this PW recognition, and I pray that the reckoning will continue to bring justice and healing to survivors. Congratulations, Ruth!”

Everhart shines a light on the prevalence of sexual abuse and misconduct within faith communities. She candidly discloses stories of how she and others have experienced assault in church settings, highlighting the damage done to individuals, families, and communities. In addition to addressing issues such as patriarchy and purity culture in the church, Everhart instructs religious leaders on what they can do to help pave a better way forward.

In an interview with PW in November 2019, Everhart said, “I didn’t choose to write about this; it happened to me. I wrote about my sexual assault in hindsight after 35 years of life in ministry and realizing that very few people were writing about such assaults from a faith perspective. I got so many messages from people; I heard so many stories. I wanted to broaden the lens out of personal story to larger themes, using other people’s stories and scripture. I didn’t have to go find a single story. They all came to me.”

The #MeToo Reckoning also received a starred review from PW that said, “These case studies are painful but particularly instructive, and Everhart argues ‘we must examine the system that allowed a predator to thrive and hide,’ specifically patriarchal church structures that concentrate more on ‘healing’ than on justice. She calls for churches to make the decisions required for them to become safe places, such as developing a formal system for victims or witnesses of abuse to come forward. Everhart’s unsparing analysis will be helpful for both ministers and lay readers who are concerned about sexual abuse.”

Everhart is an author, speaker, and pastor who has served Presbyterian (PCUSA) churches for more than twenty years. She has written for publications such as the Christian Century, Sojourners, and the Washington Post, and is the author of Chasing the Divine in the Holy Land and the Christianity Today award-winning memoir Ruined.

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

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

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Christian publishers participate in decentralized Seoul International Book Fair

November 2, 2020 by Sheri Toomb

The 2020 Seoul International Book Fair ended on the 25th. However, The Korean Publishers Association announced that major online exhibitions, lectures, and conversation programs of the book fair will be available on the official website and YouTube until the end of this year.

This year’s book fair was held both online and offline from the 16th of this month. To prevent the spread of Corona 19, it was planned as a decentralized festival by linking bookstores and cultural spaces around Seoul.

198 domestic publishers and 32 local bookstores and cultural spaces participated in the book fair.

Among them, as Christian publishing house, Christian Literature Center, Publishing Bureau of The General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in Korea, Jordan Press, Urim Books, and Grace Publisher participated.

Urim Books (CEO Johnny Kim), an international member of ECPA, exhibits 87 Korean books and 35 English books by paper and e-book version through the official website of the book fair. Among them Spirit Soul and Body (vol1)(vol2), and Awaken, Israel were exhibited in an offline space.

These books are uploaded on the official website of the SIBF and can be viewed again until the end of this year. Paper books and e-books can be purchased through Yes24.com, a book fair partner, and e-books can be purchased through Yes24.com and Amazon.com.

https://sibf.or.kr/publisher/151

The book fair website recorded 20,000 visitors and 210,000 page views over 10 days. Various lectures and conversation programs provided by the book fair website, YouTube, and Naver TV exceeded 32,000 views, according to KPA.

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Brad Hill promoted to director of audio sales for HarperCollins Christian Publishing and HarperCollins Focus

November 2, 2020 by Sheri Toomb

Nashville, Tenn. (October 27, 2020)—HarperCollins Christian Publishing (HCCP) and HarperCollins Focus (HCF) today announced Brad Hill’s promotion to director of audio sales.

Hill began his career at Zondervan, a publishing group within HCCP, in 2006 on the audio production team where he helped bring front list titles to the audio format.  Before returning to HCCP and HCF in 2019, he spent six years managing teams at Brilliance Audio where he gained experience in the broader audio publishing industry.

Most recently serving as senior manager of audio sales, Hill has led several growth initiatives including bringing licensed audio in-house, artificial-intelligence (AI) voice narration, and refreshing and expanding previous abridged editions. In addition, Hill has led the effort to bring one of our top academic works to the audio format this fall, Systematic Theology by Wayne Grudem, a first for a major textbook from Zondervan Academic.

As director of audio sales, Hill will lead the strategy for the HCCP and HCF audiobooks program, overseeing the audio editorial and marketing process and helping pursue innovative ways to utilize the audio format. Hill will collaborate with publishing teams to continue to expand the audio program and to continue to grow the company’s audiobook market-share.

“I am thrilled for Brad to step into this role,” said Jason Short, senior director of digital sales. “During his time at HCCP, he has proven that he is an aggressive innovator and excellent manager as well as a collaborative team player. I am excited to see the ways his leadership will help position HCCP and HCF as a leader in this growing category.”

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.

HarperCollins Focus, LLC owns and operates a collection of publishing imprints, that enlighten and empower readers to transform their hearts and minds, connecting through story, advice, mentorship and community. The company is based in Nashville, TN. For more information visit www.HarperCollinsFocus.com.

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

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Good News for Little Hearts series provides hope for struggles children face

October 26, 2020 by Sheri Toomb

New Growth Press Series Bringing Gospel Help and Biblical Counsel to Families

Everyone has something they struggle with from time to time, even young kids. Certain situations and circumstances can lead to big feelings that are hard to handle, but it’s never too early to learn how to turn to Jesus when things get hard. The Good News for Little Hearts series helps children apply biblical truth to whatever situations they face. This fall, the popular series is growing with three new releases helping children deal with stress, jealousy, and fitting in.

Each of the stories in this series of hardback, full-color books (written for children three to eight years old) focuses on an animal family facing real-life issues. By overcoming each struggle or hardship, the characters model hope in Jesus. Through the animal characters, colorful illustrations by Joe Hox, and situations children can identify with, young readers will be captivated throughout the stories, paving the way for Christ-centered conversations on important topics. Published in partnership with the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation (CCEF), the Good News for Little Hearts series aims to provide grace-based and biblical counsel to families.

  • Buster Tries to Bail: When You Are Stressed, edited by David and Nan Powlison, tells a new tale about Buster Bunny. Buster loves racing, but the more he thinks about the upcoming competition at the county fair for who will be the fastest animal in Mulberry Meadow, the more stressed he gets. No matter how hard he trains, he can’t eat or sleep, and eventually he decides he wants to quit running altogether. Buster’s parents talk with him about quieting the noise in his head so he can listen to Jesus instead of all his worries.
  • Caspian Crashes the Party: When You Are Jealous, edited by Edward T. Welch, helps children learn to bring their jealousy to Jesus. Caspian’s brother, Jax, is having a birthday party, and Caspian is jealous of all the attention and presents Jax is getting. One thing leads to another until Caspian deflates the bouncy castle that all of Jax’s friends are playing in, bringing the whole party down with it. Caspian’s parents talk with him about jealousy and its bad effects, and eventually peace is restored.
  • Halle Takes a Stand: When You Want to Fit In, edited by Paul David Tripp, delves into fitting in and peer pressure. Halle Hedgehog has a group of school friends she sits with at lunch and plays with at recess. One day, the whole group excludes another girl and decides to be mean to her. This bothers Halle, but she doesn’t say anything because she doesn’t want to be excluded too. Halle’s teacher, Mr. Owl, talks to her about who she really needs to fit in with, and how she can speak out against bullying because Jesus is with her.

Each of these stories help children process challenging situations through a biblical lens. Instead of moralism, each book focuses on the grace and hope we have in Jesus, not an ability to change on our own. Each character depends on Jesus and, in turning to him, lives by faith.

Parents and caretakers are encouraged to enter into meaningful conversations with their kids, teaching them to live by faith in the details of everyday life, just like the animals did. After the story, each book contains information for parents on how to use God’s Word to help children apply biblical, gospel-based truths to the specific problem addressed in the book, as well as Scripture to remember in times of trouble. Enriching for both parents and children, the Good News for Little Hearts series is based on CCEF’s model of hope and help that encourages a growing relationship with Jesus in the midst of challenging circumstances.

Visit newgrowthpress.com/good-news-for-little-hearts/ to learn about the other books in the series.

About the Editors:
David Powlison, MDiv, PhD, (1949–2019) was a teacher, counselor, and the executive director of the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation (CCEF). He wrote many books and minibooks, including Speaking Truth in Love; Seeing with New Eyes; The Biblical Counseling Movement: History and Context; Good and Angry: Redeeming Anger, Irritation, Complaining, and Bitterness; Making All Things New: Restoring Joy to the Sexually Broken; God’s Grace in Your Suffering; and Safe and Sound. David was also the editor of The Journal of Biblical Counseling and several of the Good News for Little Hearts children’s books.

Nan Powlison loves to write and illustrate children’s books for her friends and seven grandchildren. Nan worked with her husband, David, to edit three books in the Good News for Little Hearts series: Zoe’s Hiding Place, Jax’s Tail Twitches, Gus Loses His Grip, and Buster Tries to Bail.

Edward T. Welch, MDiv, PhD, is a licensed psychologist and faculty member at the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation (CCEF). He earned a PhD in counseling (neuropsychology) from the University of Utah and has a Master of Divinity from Biblical Theological Seminary. Ed has been counseling for nearly forty years and has written extensively on the topics of depression, fear, and addictions. His biblical counseling books include Shame Interrupted, When People Are Big and God Is Small, Addictions: A Banquet in the Grave, Depression: Looking Up from the Stubborn Darkness, Crossroads, Running Scared, When I Am Afraid, Side by Side, A Small Book about a Big Problem, and A Small Book for the Anxious Heart. He edited Buster’s Ears Trip Him Up, Henry Says Good-Bye, and Caspian Crashes the Party.

Paul David Tripp, MDiv, DMin, is the president of Paul David Tripp Ministries, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to connect the transforming power of Jesus Christ to everyday life. Paul is a best-selling author of many books on Christian living, including How People Change, Instruments in the Redeemer’s Hands, A Quest for More, Relationships: A Mess Worth Making, Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles That Can Radically Change Your Family, New Morning Mercies: A Daily Gospel Devotional. He edited Halle Takes a Stand. He has been married for many years to Luella, and they have four grown children.

About the Illustrator:  Joe Hox was raised on a farm in southern Iowa, where he doodled whenever he wasn’t spading thistles or feeding pigs. Everyone knew by his crooked hay rows that he would choose art over farming. Hox earned his BA in Art and Education from Dordt Col­lege, and his MA from the University of Nebraska. Today he lives with his wife and four children in Pella, Iowa, where he illustrates and teaches art. He has illustrated all of the books in the Good News for Little Hearts series and The Moon is Always Round.

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Paige Allen named new Director of IngramSpark

October 26, 2020 by Sheri Toomb

Nashville, TN (October 7, 2020) — Ingram Content Group (“Ingram”) announced the hiring of Paige Allen as the new Director of IngramSpark®, Ingram’s award-winning self-publishing platform.

Allen most recently served as the Chief Operating Officer of the Horton Group, a web design and digital marketing agency in Nashville, TN, where she worked for four years. Prior to that, she worked as Senior Manager of Digital Content and International Communications, Customer Solutions at Asurion. Preceding Asurion, Allen was Digital Project Management Lead at Lonely Planet, building partnership with brands and developing digital marketing products.

“After nearly a decade of working in digital marketing agencies, I am eager to help authors and publishers reach their audience through IngramSpark,” said Allen.

“Paige brings great experience in content management, platform development and advertising. We are thrilled that she is joining IngramSpark,” says Kelly Gallagher, VP Content Acquisition.

Allen has a B.A. in Public Policy Studies and Political Science from Vanderbilt University. She was also part of the Owen Graduate School of Management’s Accelerator Program, Business Sales & Marketing and also attended Harvard Business School’s Summer Venture and Management Program.

Ingram is thankful for long-time IngramSpark Director Robin Cutler’s contributions and vision in building IngramSpark over the years. Robin will become an IngramSpark consultant and mentor to the team prior to her official retirement in late November.

About Ingram | www.ingramcontent.com
The world is reading and Ingram Content Group (“Ingram”) connects people with content in all forms. Providing comprehensive services for publishers, retailers, libraries and educators, Ingram makes these services seamless and accessible through technology, innovation and creativity. With an expansive global network of offices and facilities, Ingram’s services include digital and physical book distribution, print-on-demand, and digital learning. Ingram Content Group is a part of Ingram Industries Inc. and includes Ingram Book Group LLC, Ingram Publisher Services LLC, Lightning Source LLC, VitalSource Technologies LLC, Ingram Library Services LLC, and Tennessee Book Company LLC.

Media contact: Shannon Hunt, 615.321.3110, shannon@tsgnashville.com

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Tyndale House Publishers acquires four novels from bestselling author T. I. Lowe

October 26, 2020 by Sheri Toomb

Under the Magnolias to release in May 2021 

CAROL STREAM, Ill. (October 21, 2020)—Tyndale House Publishers (@TyndaleHouse) has acquired four novels from bestselling author and rising star T. I. Lowe (Lulu’s Café). First to release among them is Under the Magnolias, a coming-of-age story set in the 1980s on a rural South Carolina tobacco farm and appealing to readers of Where the Crawdads Sing and The Great Alone. A May 2021 publication is planned. Under the Magnolias is a gritty, yet tender and uplifting tale, reminding us that a great story can break your heart . . . then heal it in the best possible way. This stand- alone novel will be followed by the Palmetto Summer romance trilogy, expected in 2022 and expanding upon the author’s Publishers Weekly star-reviewed Carolina Coast series.

Tyndale fiction acquisitions director Jan Stob shared, “T. I. Lowe’s authentic voice and her trademark grit and grace shine in her upcoming women’s fiction release, Under the Magnolias, a compelling story that embodies the best of what readers love about Southern fiction. Tonya’s characters jump off the page and stay with you long after you finish the story. T. I. Lowe has proven to be a talented, prolific author, and we’re delighted to introduce her next four books to the marketplace.”

Additionally, publisher Karen Watson said, “T. I. Lowe is the kind of natural storyteller that a publisher prays to find at an early point in the writer’s career. We believe there are many great things ahead for this talented new voice in women’s fiction.”

The first of the four newly acquired novels to release, 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.

I. Lowe (@tilowe) 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.

The deal for World English + Audio rights was brokered by Danielle Egan-Miller of Browne & Miller Literary Associates.

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.

For more information, or to request an advance reader copy, please contact Amanda Woods amandawoods@tyndale.com, 630-784-5125.

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The Giving Manger teaches children to look for opportunities to love and serve others

October 26, 2020 by Sheri Toomb

Start a New Christmas Tradition Centered on Giving

Nashville, TN — The true spirit of Christmas often gets lost in busyness of the season. As the events of 2020 have made us slow down and shift some of our priorities, this year is the perfect time to refocus on the joy of giving and honor the real reason for Christmas: Jesus’ birth. With The Giving Manger (WorthyKids/ October 13, 2020/ISBN: 9781546034223/ $39.99), creators and sisters Allison Hottinger and Lisa Kalberer offer a faith-based interactive family tradition that encourages acts of kindness.

Each Giving Manger box set contains a hardcover picture book, a wooden manger, a bundle of straw, and a sturdy Baby Jesus figure—everything a family needs to start the tradition in their own home. The included book, The Giving Manger, uses a story to introduce families to how the tradition works and gets children excited about participating.

The Giving Manger tells the story of a family who shifts the focus of their Christmas. Young Anne and Ben always look forward to Christmas. Each year their dad makes a special wooden toy for them, but he tells them this year will be different. They are starting a new tradition, and there will be more gifts this year, starting December 1. The kids misunderstand, thinking they will be getting more gifts, but instead, the gifts are given by them to others. Initially disappointed, the children quickly change their attitudes when they see the joy that doing kind things and giving to others brings.

“This is a special story to us because it represents the same shift we’ve seen in our own families,” Kalberer shares. “The focus used to be lists and what the kids were going to receive for Christmas, but in adopting The Giving Manger the focus shifted to what we can give. Christmas is different in our homes than it used to be, and we couldn’t be happier about it!”

Once the family reads the story together, it’s time to place the empty manger in a prominent spot in the house. In the days leading up to Christmas, family members place a piece of straw in the manger each time they perform a kind deed or act of service. Filling the manger will become a fun, interactive project for the entire family, prompting even young children to look for ways to love and serve others.

As the family works together to fill the manger with straw, both hearts and home will be filled with the joy and contentment that comes not from wish lists and getting, but from giving and loving others. On Christmas Day, the family will place the baby Jesus in the manger—now full of the straw that represents the acts of love and service done in honor of Jesus’ birth.

“As we began to raise our own families, we often felt like the true meaning of Christmas and the spirit of giving was getting lost in the hustle and bustle of the season. We wanted to start making the season more about giving and showing kindness to others,” says Hottinger. “We originally made the tradition just for our own family, but when we told friends about what we were doing, we had so many friends who wanted one too!”

In the back of The Giving Manger, readers will also find a list of activities as inspiration. Each act of kindness does not need to be a grand gesture, but can be simple gestures such as putting away a brother’s shoes, drawing a picture for a grandparent, helping to empty the dishwasher without being asked, or leaving a candy cane and a note for the mail carrier. The goal is to become more kind and giving-minded in daily life so that the actions come naturally all year round.

Each item in the box is built to last so families can keep the tradition going year after year.

Visit www.thegivingmanger.com for a downloadable activity list and to take part in a letter writing service project.

Allison Hottinger and Lisa Kalberer are sisters who are passionate about giving back. As they began to raise their own families, they realized that the true meaning of Christmas and the spirit of giving was getting lost in the hustle and bustle of the season. They put pen to paper, wood to the saw, and clay in their hands to create the book, manger, and Baby Jesus that make up The Giving Manger–a complete tradition to help families focus on the real meaning of Christmas. They hope that The Giving Manger can spread kindness and promote service as families come together and shift the focus of Christmas from getting to giving. Allison lives in Ladera Ranch, California, and Lisa lives in Austin, Texas.

Learn more at www.thegivingmanger.com and on Facebook (@thegivingmanger) and Instagram (@thegivingmanger).

For review copy and interview information, contact: ajenningspr@gmail.com or 903-874-8363.

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The Parable Group launches modern retailer websites and revamps Get It Local Today

October 26, 2020 by Sheri Toomb

(October 22, 2020) – The Parable Group, a California-based marketing agency and media group, today unveiled two web-based, data-driven initiatives designed to drive traffic into Christian retail stores—local Branded Websites and a complete revamp of the Get It Local Today website platform.

Branded Websites, which launched mid-September, provide retailers a cost-effective and modern website solution with powerful features for their customers. Each site contains a full Christian product offering and displays the store’s on-hand inventory (from nightly POS feeds) allowing customers to conveniently reserve items online and pick them up in-store—reducing health risks and bypassing shipping delays amid the pandemic.

The new websites have been well-received by independent retailers, including Dove Christian Supply,  Cedar Springs Christian Store, Dightman’s Bible Book Center, and Parable Christian of St. Joseph & Hallmark Gold Crown, with over 50 websites launched in advance of Christmas. Christian retailers who need a new store website this fall can fill out this interest form.

Additionally, the web-based Christian store-supporting platform Get It Local Today has been revamped and enhanced. The platform, which launched in 2018 in coordination with Covenant Group, offers shoppers receiving promotional emails from publishers—or shopping on publisher websites—the option of buying products at local Christian stores as an alternative to Amazon and big-box retailers. Recent website improvements include an updated modern look, upgraded user experience, enhanced search, and an expanded product database. Get It Local Today is free for retailers and publishers; hundreds of Christian retailers are signed up to participate—representing a nationwide and industry-wide network.

Christian retailers can enroll here; it only takes a few minutes for a retailer to give permission to allow their store to be listed and set up for data reporting, letting customers know which products are in stock at their store.

“Our aim is to help retailers thrive in their ministry and adapt to a fast-changing marketplace, says Greg Squires, President of The Parable Group. “We’re honored and delighted to serve a broader network of Christian retailers with data-driven technology solutions that connect local customers to the life-giving products in their stores.

To learn more about Branded Websites or Get It Local Today, visit The Parable Group’s Retail Help Center here. 

The Parable Group helps Christian retailers, publishers, and ministries magnify their mission by connecting them to engaged Christian consumers, pastors, and church leaders. The San Luis Obispo, CA based data-driven marketing agency and media group has served over 1000 Christian organizations since 1985. For more information, contact sally.ross@parable.com or visit www.parablegroup.com.

Contact: Sally Ross, (805) 329-4020  sally.ross@parable.com

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This Month’s Bestsellers

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1 TAME YOUR THOUGHTS
MAX LUCADO
2 I JUST WISH I HAD A BIGGER KITCHEN
KATE STRICKLER
3 KJV STANDARD LESSON COMMENTARY® LARGE PRINT EDITION 2025-2026
STANDARD PUBLISHING
4 STANDING ON THE EDGE OF ETERNITY
GARY HAMRICK
5 PRACTICING THE WAY
JOHN MARK COMER
6 THE 5 LOVE LANGUAGES
GARY CHAPMAN
7 JESUS CALLING
SARAH YOUNG
8 A JESUS-SHAPED LIFE BIBLE STUDY GUIDE PLUS STREAMING VIDEO
LISA HARPER
9 THE STRONGHOLD OF THE CHOSEN
AMANDA JENKINS. AND DALLAS JENKINS AND DOUGLAS S. HUFFMAN
10 NEW MORNING MERCIES
PAUL DAVID TRIPP
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1 KJV STANDARD LESSON COMMENTARY® LARGE PRINT EDITION 2025-2026
STANDARD PUBLISHING
2 KJV STANDARD LESSON COMMENTARY® 2025-2026
STANDARD PUBLISHING
3 NIV® STANDARD LESSON COMMENTARY® LARGE PRINT EDITION 2025-2026
STANDARD PUBLISHING
4 HOLY SPIRIT
DAVID DIGA HERNANDEZ
5 OUT OF THE WILDERNESS
ANGELA HALILI AND ARIELLE REITSMA
6 100 DAYS OF JOY AND STRENGTH
CANDACE CAMERON BURE
7 GOD CHOSE ME
CHARLES HENRY METCALF
8 NIV® STANDARD LESSON COMMENTARY® 2025-2026
STANDARD PUBLISHING
9 THE IMMORTAL MIND
MICHAEL EGNOR AND DENYSE O'LEARY
10 WHERE SECRETS LIE
COLLEEN COBLE AND RICK ACKER
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1 FINAL APPROACH
LYNETTE EASON
2 VANISHED
DAVID JEREMIAH WITH SAM O'NEAL
3 REDEEMING LOVE
FRANCINE RIVERS
4 WHEN CRICKETS CRY
CHARLES MARTIN
5 HINDS' FEET ON HIGH PLACES
HANNAH HURNARD
6 GELATO AT THE VILLA
ROBIN JONES GUNN
7 THE FRENCH KITCHEN
KRISTY CAMBRON
8 THE SHACK
WILLIAM PAUL YOUNG
9 SPLENDOR OF THE LAND
CONNILYN COSSETTE
10 A LINEAGE OF GRACE
FRANCINE RIVERS
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1 TAME YOUR THOUGHTS
MAX LUCADO
2 I JUST WISH I HAD A BIGGER KITCHEN
KATE STRICKLER
3 KJV STANDARD LESSON COMMENTARY® LARGE PRINT EDITION 2025-2026
STANDARD PUBLISHING
4 STANDING ON THE EDGE OF ETERNITY
GARY HAMRICK
5 PRACTICING THE WAY
JOHN MARK COMER
6 THE 5 LOVE LANGUAGES
GARY CHAPMAN
7 JESUS CALLING
SARAH YOUNG
8 A JESUS-SHAPED LIFE BIBLE STUDY GUIDE PLUS STREAMING VIDEO
LISA HARPER
9 THE STRONGHOLD OF THE CHOSEN
AMANDA JENKINS. AND DALLAS JENKINS AND DOUGLAS S. HUFFMAN
10 NEW MORNING MERCIES
PAUL DAVID TRIPP
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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 GREAT AND SMALL PRAYERS FOR BABIES
PAMELA KENNEDY
5 GOD GAVE US YOU
LISA TAWN BERGREN
6 THE WORLD NEEDS WHO YOU WERE MADE TO BE
JOANNA GAINES
7 THE COMPLETE ILLUSTRATED CHILDREN'S BIBLE
JANICE EMMERSON
8 BEDTIME PRAYERS FOR LITTLE ONES
MAX LUCADO AND DENALYN LUCADO
9 THE BIGGEST STORY BIBLE STORYBOOK
KEVIN DEYOUNG
10 MOSTLY WHAT GOD DOES IS LOVE YOU
SAVANNAH GUTHRIE
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1 LIVE ON PURPOSE
SADIE ROBERTSON HUFF WITH BETH CLARK AND TAMA FORTNER
2 SINGLE, DATING, ENGAGED, MARRIED
STUART, BEN
3 THE 5-MINUTE BIBLE STUDY FOR TEEN GIRLS
SCOTT, CAREY
4 DO HARD THINGS
ALEX HARRIS AND BRETT HARRIS
5 YOURS, NOT HERS
KARI KAMPAKIS
6 THE CASE FOR CHRIST STUDENT EDITION
LEE STROBEL WITH JANE VOGEL
7 MANGA BIBLE
SIKU
8 THE HARBINGER: A GRAPHIC NOVEL
JONATHAN CAHN
9 EVERYDAY INSPIRATION FOR TEEN GIRLS
JANICE THOMPSON
10 STRONG AND SECURE
MICHELLE NIETERT AND LYNN COWELL
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1 365 READ-ALOUD BEDTIME BIBLE STORIES
DANIEL PARTNER
2 ONE-MINUTE INSPIRATIONS FOR WOMEN
ELIZABETH GEORGE
3 THE GOSPEL STORY
MARY WILEY
4 KNOW YOUR BIBLE
PAUL KENT
5 BIBLE PROMISES FOR MOMS
HEIDI ST JOHN
6 199 PROMISES OF GOD
BARBOUR PUBLISHING
7 BIBLE PROMISE BOOK - KJV
BARBOUR PUBLISHING
8 ONE-MINUTE INSIGHTS FOR MEN
JIM GEORGE
9 PRAYER BASICS FOR EVERYONE
TERRY GLASPEY
10 IS GOD SPEAKING TO ME?
LYSA TERKEURST
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1 KJV GIANT PRINT FULL SIZE BIBLE
CHRISTIAN ART PUBLISHERS
2 NIV ADVENTURE BIBLE, Hardcover
ZONDERVAN
3 ESV CHURCH BIBLE
CROSSWAY
4 CSB SHE READS TRUTH BIBLE, Grey
RAECHEL MYERS AND AMANDA BIBLE WILLIAMS AND CSB BIBLES BY HOLMAN
5 NKJV PERSONAL SIZE LARGE PRINT REFERENCE BIBLE
THOMAS NELSON
6 KJV LARGE PRINT PEW BIBLE
THOMAS NELSON
7 NIV VALUE THINLINE BIBLE
ZONDERVAN
8 NIV THE WOMAN'S STUDY BIBLE
THOMAS NELSON
9 ESV STUDY BIBLE
J. I. PACKER
10 NLT LARGE PRINT PREMIUM VALUE THINLINE BIBLE, Garden Pink
NEW LIVING TRANSLATION
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1 ESV ECONOMY BIBLE
CROSSWAY
2 ESV ECONOMY HOLY BIBLE FOR KIDS
CROSSWAY
3 ESV LARGE PRINT ECONOMY BIBLE
CROSSWAY
4 NLT LARGE PRINT HOLY BIBLE ECONOMY OUTREACH EDITION
NEW LIVING TRANSLATION
5 KJV GIFT & AWARD BIBLE
THOMAS NELSON
6 NIV ECONOMY BIBLE
ZONDERVAN
7 NIV LARGER PRINT HOLY BIBLE ECONOMY EDITION
ZONDERVAN
8 NIV GIFT & AWARD BIBLE
ZONDERVAN
9 NLT ECONOMY TEXT BIBLE
NEW LIVING TRANSLATION
10 NIV OUTREACH BIBLE STUDENT EDITION
ZONDERVAN
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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 American Standard Bible
10 New Revised Standard Version
View All
1 PERDONA LO QUE NO PUEDES OLVIDAR
LYSA TERKEURST
2 LOS 5 LENGUAJES DEL AMOR EDICION REVISADA
GARY CHAPMAN
3 UN ANO CON DIOS
B&H ESPANOL EDITORIAL
4 UNA VIDA CON PROPOSITO, Bolsillo
RICK WARREN
5 UNA MUJER SABIA
WENDY BELLO
6 DESTINADO AL EXITO
DANTE GEBEL
7 HISTORIA DE LA IGLESIA CRISTIANA
JESSE LYMAN HURLBUT
8 LA MUJER EMOCIONALMENTE SANA
GERI SCAZZERO AND PETER SCAZZERO
9 TEOLOGIA BIBLICA Y SISTEMATICA
MYER PEARLMAN
10 VIVIENDO SU VOLUNTAD
SEBASTIAN FRANZ
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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 LETRA GRANDE TAMANO MANUAL EDICION TIERRA SANTA
B&H ESPANOL EDITORIAL
4 RVR1960 BIBLIA DEL PESCADOR LETRA GRANDE
LUIS ANGEL DIAZ-PABON
5 RVR1960 BIBLIA PARA REGALOS Y PREMIOS, Imitacion piel
B&H ESPANOL EDITORIAL
6 RVR1960 BIBLIA PARA REGALOS Y PREMIOS, Turquesa
B&H ESPANOL EDITORIAL
7 RVR1960 BIBLIA DE ESTUDIO ARCO IRIS
B&H ESPANOL EDITORIAL
8 RVR1960 BIBLIA DE APUNTES
B&H ESPANOL EDITORIAL
9 RVR1960 SANTA BIBLIA EDICION PORTATIL CON CREMALLERA
RVR 1960- REINA VALERA 1960
10 RVR60 SANTA BIBLIA LETRA GRANDE TIERRA SANTA CON CIERRE
VIDA
View All
1 LA GRAN HISTORIA DEL EVANGELIO
B&H ESPANOL EDITORIAL
2 365 HISTORIAS BIBLICAS PARA LA HORA DE DORMIR
COMPILED BY BARBOUR STAFF
3 EL SECRETO DE LA PAZ PERSONAL
BILLY GRAHAM
4 DEMASIADO BENDECIDA PARA ESTAR ESTRESADA
DEBORA M. COTY
5 LA BIBLIA PARA TODOS LOS NINOS
JOAN G. ANGURELL
6 ESTRESATE MENOS, ORA MAS
DONNA K. MALTESE
7 PREOCUPATE MENOS Y ORA MAS
DONNA K. MALTESE
8 COMO ORAR EN EL ESPIRITU
JOHN BUNYAN
9 EL VALLE DE LOS HUESOS SECOS
YIYE AVILA
10 ¿PARA QUE ESTOY AQUI EN LA TIERRA?
RICK WARREN
View All

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