Ada, Mich. (August 25, 2021)—On Sunday, August 15, founder and CEO of the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association (AWSA), Linda Evans Shepherd, along with Carol Kent, Dawn Scott Damon, and Rhonda Rhea, presented the 2021 Golden Scroll and Christian Market Awards at their annual banquet. The banquet took place at the St. Charles Convention Center in St. Charles, Missouri, and was the culmination of the 2021 AWSA conference. This year, Baker Publishing Group authors received a total of eight awards. For the complete list of winners, please visit https://awsa.com/?p=6262.

Carol and Gene Kent and Cindy and David Lambert received the Book of the Year Award for Staying Power: Building a Stronger Marriage When Life Sends Its Worst (Revell; ISBN 9780800737054; Ebook ISBN 9781493421213; $16.99). Staying Power also received the Christian Market Christian Living Book of the Year award.

The Nonfiction Book of the Year Award went to Janell Rardon for Stronger Every Day: 9 Tools for an Emotionally Healthy You (Revell; ISBN 9780800737580; Ebook ISBN 9781493428939; $16.99).

Lynette Eason’s novel, Acceptable Risk (Revell; ISBN 9780800729356; Ebook ISBN 9781493423101; $15.99), won the Mystery/Suspense Novel of the Year. Lynette also won third place in the Mystery/Suspense category for Collateral Damage (Revell; ISBN 9780800729349; Ebook ISBN 9781493421046; $15.99). Both titles are part of the Danger Never Sleeps series.

Cindy K. Sproles, author of What Momma Left Behind (Revell; ISBN 9780800737047;  Ebook ISBN 9781493423279; $15.99) tied for the Christian Market Novel of the Year.

Jocelyn Green was selected as the second place winner for the Historical Novel of the Year for her book Shadows of the White City (Bethany House, ISBN 9780764233319; Ebook ISBN 9781493429912; $15.99).

Julie Lavender, author of 365 Ways to Love Your Child: Turning Little Moments into Lasting Memories (Revell; ISBN 9780800738846, Ebook ISBN 9781493427932; $9.99) tied for second place for the Christian Market Nonfiction Book of the Year Award.

AWSA is a professional group of over eight hundred Christian women who work as professional authors, entertainers, publishers, and speakers. Their goal is to encourage and train one another. The Golden Scroll Awards was created thirteen years ago as a means of honoring their members. Two years ago, they created a new award, the Christian Market Award, which is open to all authors who publish in the Christian Market.

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.

Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group, seeks to uplift readers’ families, faith, and free time with our library of industry-leading fiction and bestselling, Christ-centered nonfiction.

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

Carol Stream, IL. (August 25, 2021) — Tyndale House Publishers (@tyndalehouse) will release In the Presence of Jesus: A 40-Day Guide to the Intimacy with God You’ve Always Wanted by Paul Bane and Matt Litton on October 19. Through daily readings based on Scripture and written as a personal narrative in the voice of Jesus, In the Presence of Jesus provides a guided journey to finding inner peace and contentment in the midst of the stress, noise, and activity of modern life.

In 2015, retired pastor Paul Bane founded the online community Mindful Christianity to help people practice the presence of Jesus in their daily lives. Mindful Christianity currently has over one million Facebook followers. Bane has teamed with Matt Litton to bring this contemplative and meditative tradition to readers. Through Scripture, daily prayers, reflection activities, and blessings, you will learn to quiet your mind, focus on the character of Jesus, open your spirit to His presence in your life, and, with His help, ultimately find peace for your mind and soul.

For more information or for media inquiries, please contact Kristen Schumacher, kristenschumacher@tyndale.com.

In the Presence of Jesus by Paul Bane and Matt Litton
ISBN: 978-1-4964-5562-8 Hardcover: $19.99 October 2021 release 

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.

Contact:  Kristen Schumacher, kristenschumacher@tyndale.com, 630.784.5103

Carol Stream, Ill. (August 25, 2021) — Tyndale House Publishers (@tyndalehouse) will release Designed to Last in April 2022, written by Instagram sensations (@arrowsandbow) Ashley and Dino Petrone. In their much-anticipated debut book, Ashley and Dino invite readers into their home and relationship, employing their trademark honest and hilarious storytelling.

The Petrones are the first to say that they don’t have all the answers, but in their book, they invite readers to join them as they share the struggles and successes that come from intentionally staying committed to God and each other. They are convinced that when you build with faith, creativity, and love as the foundation . . . you build something designed to last.

Ashley and Dino announced their upcoming book release on their Instagram platform @arrowsandbow, with over 619k followers, on August 23, triggering a viral response. In addition to reaching their own platform, over 30 Instagram influencers organically shared their news, accounting for over 1.7 million impressions, demonstrating the power of their community and platform. This social media announcement landed Designed to Last on Amazon Best Seller lists shortly after breaking the news. Specifically, within hours of the announcement, the book skyrocketed to #11 in all books on Amazon. It also appeared in the #1 spot on Amazon’s Movers and Shakers and #2 on New Release lists, respectively, and the #1 spot on Amazon’s Happiness Self-Help, Christian Self-Help, and Christian Marriage lists.

Senior Acquisitions Editor Kara Leonino shared, “While it would be easy and truthful to say that social media is not always an accurate representation of a person’s true nature, I can tell you firsthand that Ashley and Dino are the real deal. I discovered them on Instagram years ago—drawn in by their inviting, quirky, honest, friendly, and exceptionally fun personalities. Ashley and Dino are creatives and trailblazers who welcome people as they are and encourage us all to chase big dreams and adventures.” She continued, “They’re real—not afraid to talk about hard things but still find hope in the in-between areas of regular life. They are clear in all aspects of how they share their life that their faith is central and a key motivator in everything they do from managing their business, to curating content for social media, raising their children, and highlighting—throughout their book Designed to Last—the way they consistently show that God is central to their marriage. It is a dream come true to publish their first book, an incredible example for the world about what an inspired, beautiful, loving marriage and home can be.”

Publisher Sarah Atkinson added, “On behalf of Tyndale Momentum, I can’t overstate how excited we are to be partnering with Ashley and Dino on their first book. It has been, quite simply, a beautiful journey in every way—starting from our very first conversations when we all came together to share the dream of what a book could be. The result: a gorgeous book full of amazing adventures, photos, and charm. It’s funny, heartfelt, poignant, and creative—just like the Petrones themselves. Their online community will love it, and so will the many new friends they’ll make along the way.”

For more information or for media inquiries, please contact Katie Dodillet, katiedodillet@tyndale.com.
TyndaleMomentum.com

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.

Contact: Katie Dodillet, katiedodillet@tyndale.com, 630.784.5275

Letting God Be Enough Examines Our Struggles with Identity and Imposter Syndrome

Phoenix, AZ – Moody Publishers is honored to release the fourth book by Erica Wiggenhorn, Letting God Be Enough: Why Striving Keeps You Stuck and How Surrender Sets You Free. Staying in tune with her mission to help inspire Christians to not just know God, but to live like God is in control, Wiggenhorn helps readers break down personal issues of inadequacy by examining the life of Moses.“As a Christian woman who has battled self-doubt for decades, I felt compelled to encourage others who face these issues,” shares Erica. “Moses struggled with many of the same issues, and I hope that by examining his life, we can find truth, encouragement and freedom.”Erica refers to Moses as the “greatest self-doubter in the Bible” and she shares how self-doubt is tied tightly to self-reliance. “It’s only when you cast yourself on God that you can find the true source of strength.”Letting God Be Enough tackles themes such as:

• Overcoming feelings of Imposter Syndrome, which is defined as “persistent doubt concerning one’s abilities or accomplishments accompanied by a fear of being exposed as a fraud despite evidence of one’s ongoing success.”
• Finding freedom from the nagging fears of self-doubt and inadequacy
• Securely resting in God’s ability and commitment to care for you
• Cease searching for endless affirmation in accomplishments, positions, and relationships.
• Surrender your doubts and fears over to the arms of your loving Father who promises to never leave or lie, and to always be enough in whatever you feel you lack.
• How to stop looking in the mirror and instead let God be enough.

The book is a format change from Erica’s previous offerings, An Unexplainable Life, The Unexplainable Church, and Unexplainable Jesus. While still deeply steeped in scripture, Letting God Be Enough is a readable project, showing the parallels between the life of Moses and our over-committed, fast-paced lives.Letting God Be Enough is the modern book for tackling an age-old problem, resting in God when life doesn’t make sense. You no longer have to strive, compare, or appease others to secure your worth. Instead, you can let a loving God be enough.A free digital Bible study book and Leader’s Guide on the life of Moses entitled My God Fights For Me is offered to anyone who pre-orders the book at www.ericawiggenhorn.com.

About Erica Wiggenhorn:  Erica is an award-winning author and the founder of Every Life Ministries, bringing you the truths of Scripture to transform your life. By digging deeply into God’s Word, Every Life Ministries encourages you to discover your unique purpose, accept God’s promises, and live by His power. Erica is the author of three Bible studies released by Moody Publishers: An Unexplainable Life, The Unexplainable Church, and Unexplainable Jesus.  A graduate and post-graduate of Azusa Pacific University, Erica lives in Phoenix with her best friend and husband, Jonathan, and their four children, only two of which are human. The others are furry and adorable.

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Letting God Be Enough Suggested Interview Questions: 

• Why do you think so many Christians, women in particular, struggle with self-doubt?
• What is Imposter Syndrome and what does it look and feel like in our lives?
• Millions of copies of self-help books have been sold, addressing issues of self-doubt. What does the Bible say about the issue?
• What are some signs that indicate you are striving out of a place of fear rather than working with passion in the role(s) you’re fulfilling in a relationship or a responsibility you hold?
• Moses, a prominent character in the Bible, displayed a lot of self-doubt. What does his story teach us about trusting God?
• When Moses suffered from self-doubt, how did God respond? How did God want Moses to respond?
• It seems like if God has called us to something, then shouldn’t it be relatively easy, since God is with us?  Why does it often feel like the things we try hardest at feel the most difficult?
• What are some practical ways to stop responding in fear and instead surrender in faith when God calls us to serve Him in a special capacity?
• How can we tell when we’ve surrendered? Why is this God’s ultimate plan for His children?
• What made you become passionate about Bible teaching? Why can you empathize with the person out there who struggles to make Bible reading or Bible study a priority?
• What are we missing when we don’t personally study scripture? What practical steps would you offer to someone who wants to grow in their ability to read and study the Bible?
• Tell us something unexpected or surprising you learned while working on this book.

For more information or to schedule an interview:
Lori Heiselman – 714-553-5181 — lori@BiscuitMediaGroup.com

BELLINGHAM, WA—Beginning in early 2022, Lexham Press will publish their first children’s books, launching the FatCat series. The first title, The Apostles’ Creed: For All God’s Children, will release in February 2022. This full-color illustrated book will inspire children aged 4-8 to understand and delight in the church’s ancient confession of faith.

Todd Hains, editor at Lexham Press, said, “Christian parents want to raise their children in the faith, but many feel inadequate to the task. And that’s why we’ve made it a hallmark of our work at Lexham to teach the catechism. The church’s catechism is the central texts of faith—the Apostles’ Creed, the Lord’s Prayer, and the Ten Commandments. These unite Christians across traditions and generations. The catechism teaches us what the Bible teaches us: our faith. FatCat Books are meant to give parents and children the faith, hope, and love of the Bible. We’re excited to share these bright books of hope with families and churches.”

To keep the catechism approachable and fun, the series features a character named FatCat (“cat” being short for “catechism”). FatCat, a striped gray feline, can be found throughout the pages of the book, learning about the catechism along with the readers.

The Apostles’ Creed is beautifully illustrated by Natasha Kennedy, a freelance artist and mother from Seattle, Washington. Each spread includes a line from the traditional text of the creed and full-color illustrations. Kennedy said, “in illustrating the ancient catechism, I wanted to blend the traditional feel of Byzantine iconography with the playful imagery of Eyvind Earle and make the life of Jesus familiar and approachable for children.”

Each line of the creed is accompanied by thoughtful reflections from theologian Ben Myers that guide readers young and old. Myers is also the author of The Apostles’ Creed: A Guide to the Ancient Catechism in the Christian Essentials series (Lexham Press). The book also includes a list of Scriptures and a guided family prayer to aid in children’s education and devotion.

Jesse Myers, Lexham Press’ publisher, said, “it’s our hope that the FatCat books will be a joyful and fun way for parents to introduce children to the basics of Christian belief. The books will mirror exactly what we hope to do in all Lexham books: point people helpfully and hopefully to God’s Word.”

Future FatCat books are forthcoming, with The Lord’s Prayer: For All God’s Children expected in Fall 2022.

Visit http://www.lexhampress.com/FatCat to learn more about the FatCat series and first book in the FatCat series, The Apostles’ Creed: For All God’s Children, releasing in February 2022.

Contact:  Lindsay John Kennedy for more information and a press kit.  lindsay@lexhampress.com

Lisa Osteen Comes assures readers the blessing you believe God has promised to you, and the dreams you have been anticipating…are on the way!

In IT’S ON THE WAY! (FaithWords, August 24, 2021, ISBN: 9781546015963), Lisa Osteen Comes reminds readers that during these inevitable times in our lives, God is faithful and our current season is temporary. Lisa teaches readers how to press through challenges, quit taking shortcuts instead of trusting God to give you His best, allow God to fight your battles, and silence the enemy within, while giving encouragement and practical steps to take when you don’t know what to do next.

At times, we all find ourselves in seasons of waiting:

• For our dreams to be fulfilled
• Our prayers to be answered
• Our circumstances to change

Know that YOUR dream has an appointed time and God always has victory in store for you. And the seasons of waiting don’t need to be periods of discouragement or hopelessness. Instead, they can be rich periods of joy, growth and preparation for the plans and promotion that God has in store for you.

Lisa Osteen Comes serves as an associate pastor of Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas, led by her brother Joel Osteen. Comes teaches in the weekly services and Bible study, as well as speaking at churches and conferences nationwide.

NLT DaySpring Hope & Encouragement Bible to Release in October

Carol Stream, Ill., Aug. 23, 2021—In the midst of national concern over the economy, the ongoing pandemic, and mental health issues, Tyndale House Publishers and DaySpring have teamed up for the October release of the NLT DaySpring Hope & Encouragement Bible, a Bible designed to provide hope and encouragement during any season of life, but particularly during the trying times many are currently experiencing.

The NLT DaySpring Hope & Encouragement Bible includes a reading plan that amplifies 12 Indisputable Truths about who each of us is in Christ, including: you are known, you are not alone, you have a purpose, and you have a reason for hope. These truths equip readers to recognize and embrace their treasured place in God’s heart in order to face any challenge and step into even the toughest calling.

“It’s a privilege to collaborate with DaySpring on the NLT DaySpring Hope & Encouragement Bible,” said Jim Jewell, senior director of marketing and communication for Tyndale House. “Our shared vision to bring the Word of God to people in need of renewed hope and fresh encouragement seems particularly relevant during this time in history.”

“This year, DaySpring celebrates its 50th anniversary, and we’ve included our most encouraging and hopeful messages from the past five decades in the new NLT DaySpring Hope & Encouragement Bible,” said Joy Groblebe, content marketing director for DaySpring. “We’ve included content that has resonated most with our audience through the years as a companion to their Scripture reading.”

Distinctives of the NLT DaySpring Hope & Encouragement Bible include:

• Full text of the trusted New Living Translation
• 52 full-page devotionals from bestselling DaySpring books
• 250+ reflective DaySpring inspirations
• 12 Indisputable Truths reading plans
• Full-color interior, including 16-page Visual Overview of the Bible
• Tyndale Verse Finder
• Wide margins for journaling and note-taking

NLT DaySpring Hope & Encouragement Bible
(Tyndale House Publishers, ISBN: 978-1-4964-5292-4).
Hardcover: $37.49. LeatherLike cover: $44.99.

About Tyndale House Publishers
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.

About DaySpring
DaySpring, the world’s largest Christian-message product provider, was founded in 1971 with a single Christmas card. Today DaySpring offers more than 6,000 products—from greeting cards to home décor, specialty gifts to devotional books. In 1999, DaySpring was acquired by Hallmark Cards, Inc. DaySpring products are in Christian retail outlets, mass retail stores, card and gift shops and other outlets in the United States and 60 foreign countries. DaySpring is based in Siloam Springs, Ark., and employs a staff of more than 80 people. Visit www.dayspring.com for more information about the company, to find a local retailer, and to send a free e-card.

DaySpring is a registered trademark of DaySpring Cards, Inc.

MEDIA NOTE: For more information, or to arrange an interview about the NLT DaySpring Hope & Encouragement Bible, contact Laura McGowan at laura@lauramcgowan.com or call (847) 347-5206.

FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT:  Laura McGowan (847) 347-5206, laura@lauramcgowan.com

Full-color board book features colorful illustrations, peaceful prayers for a soothing bedtime routine

NASHVILLE, TN., August 2021—At the end of the day, every child needs the comfort of a bedtime ritual before falling asleep. Reading a story before bed is one of the most popular bedtime routines that not only brings comfort, but also creates family traditions and memories that will last a lifetime.

In her new children’s book, Bedtime with Mommy (End Game Press, Aug. 24, 2021, $8.99, 1637970005), bestselling and multi-award-winning author of over 100 books, Nancy I. Sanders, brings a sweet, new board book to add to bedtime reading for mothers and their little ones. From polar bears to elephants and kangaroos, children are drawn into the dens, nests and pouches of sleepy baby animals who are lovingly tucked in by their mothers.

Bedtime with Mommy is perfect for babies and toddlers ages 1-4 years of age and is sure to be a cherished, favorite bedtime routine. Children will not only be soothed to sleep, but they will also learn about the unique characteristics of God’s creation in the world around them as they are reminded of just how loved they are.

With beautiful illustrations by Felia Hanakata, Bedtime with Mommy takes children on a colorful journey as they visit unique habitats around the world including the arctic, rainforest and ocean. Written in easy-to-read-rhyme, Sanders also weaves in gentle prayers, Psalms and reminders of God’s love.

“With four grandchildren under the age of 6, I see how important bedtime routines are to children,” says Sanders. “Bedtime with Mommy gives mothers everywhere concrete examples for imparting faith-filled precious moments to their children at bedtime.”

Sanders is available for interviews and can speak to a variety of topics, including:

• Instilling faith into the lives of young children through the power of bedtime reading
• How to create a meaningful bedtime routine for your family
• Prayers and Psalms that will soothe and comfort children at bedtime
• Why incorporating bedtime reading increases the bond between parent and child
• How a child’s bedtime routine benefits the entire home
• Tips for making bedtime fun and relaxing for your toddler

“Bedtime can often be a challenge, especially with babies and toddlers,” says Sanders. “I hope little ones will find comfort, reassurance, and a sense of calm as they include reading Bedtime with Mommy as part of their routine each night.”

About the Author
Nancy I. Sanders is a multi-award-winning children’s author of over 100 books. She is the co-winner of the ECPA’s 2018 Young People’s Literature Award for the best in MG/YA nonfiction in the Christian market, and some of her favorite topics to write about are God, Bible stories, educational subjects, African American history, and Jane Austen. While Nancy loves to spend her time writing books and working on various manuscript projects, she also enjoys sewing patchwork quilts, gardening and capturing the beauty of God’s beautiful creation on film. Nancy and her husband, Jeff, live in southern California and attend Calvary Chapel Chino Hills Church.

About the Illustrator
Felia Hanakata is an Indonesia-based illustrator who attended the Academy of Art University and completed her BFA in Illustration. She thinks story-telling breathes life and colors into the world. When she is not drawing, she usually reads, drinks lots of coffee, plays video games, and looks for inspiration in nature and her surroundings. 

About End Game Press
Launched by award-winning author Victoria Duerstock in 2020, End Game Press is a traditional publishing house where ordinary people accomplish extraordinary things. End Game Press puts authors first, educating them on the entirety of the publishing process and providing them with the needed training to be successful. With a goal to create beauty and cultivate community, End Game Press publishes fiction, nonfiction, and children’s titles into both general and Christian markets. Learn more at www.endgamepress.com.

 Media Contact: Christina Bostick, christina@iconmediagroup.com

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SUGGESTED INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
Nancy I. Sanders, Bedtime with Mommy

1. Nancy, you are a bestselling and multi-award-winning author of over 100 children’s books. How has writing books for children shaped your life? What do you most enjoy about it?
2. Your new book, Bedtime with Mommy, brings moms and children together creating a purposeful bedtime routine. Can you share more about the book and what inspired you to write it?
3. What will mothers and their children gain from reading this bedtime story together?
4. How does having a bedtime reading routine impact the mom/child relationship?
5. What do you hope children will take away from this story?
6. Prayers and Psalms are sweetly woven into the story. Can you talk about the importance of instilling faith into the lives of young children?
7. What is one of your favorite Psalms that brings comfort?
8. Do you have any tips for creating a meaningful bedtime routine?
9. Can you share some encouragement with listeners, specifically mothers, who might struggle with parenting and don’t feel as if they are doing enough?
10. How can our audience connect with you online, and where can they purchase a copy of Bedtime with Mommy?

Author of the YouVersion Bible App for Kids Bible Stories Releases First Four Bible Story Picture Books in All New Series to Remind Young Children Of Their Part In God’s Story

Internationally known Performance Storyteller and bestselling author Bob Hartman is set to entertain and inspire children with the launch of his all new Clever Cub Bible Stories series available Sept. 1 from David C Cook. Geared to little ones ages three to six, the first four books to be released from this delightful and affordable 16-book series of Bible story picture books makes reading time a faith-building adventure as Clever Cub reminds kids of their part in God’s story.

Through Hartman’s gifted storytelling and vibrant illustrations by Steve Brown, God’s Word comes alive as children follow along with Clever Cub to discover more about Jesus, Creation and the Bible in this engaging picture book series.

“Clever Cub is a curious little bear who LOVES to cuddle up with the Bible and learn about God,” says Hartman, who is also the author of the YouVersion Bible App for Kids Bible stories that have been downloaded 70 million times. “What better way to help young readers discover more about their part in God’s story than to share His love and biblical truths based on Scripture through faith-filled adventures.

“My dream for this series is that Clever Cub helps children see the love of God in their own lives,” continues Hartman, “and that they receive the joy that Christ brings when we enter into a relationship with Him!”

Featuring colorful illustrations, kid-friendly questions and engaging stories from the wonders of Creation to the songs of the Psalms to the arrival of Baby Jesus, this series of Bible story picture books invites readers to join Clever Cub as he “Welcomes Baby Jesus, Explores God’s Creation, Sings to God and Gives Thanks to God.” A note at the end of each book includes questions about the story’s theme to help parents and ministry leaders begin conversations with children about their own part in God’s story.

Furthermore, there are helpful resources and downloadable content available for parents and adults to share with children, including free Clever Cub coloring pages, animated story videos narrated by Hartman, and more “freebies” available through signing up for email updates at https://davidccook.org/clever-cub-books/. Subscribers may also receive notifications to hear about all the new Clever Club adventures coming soon and the latest free resources being offered.

Clever Cub Bible Stories Series Description for books 1 – 4:

Clever Cub Welcomes Baby Jesus

• On a starry night, Clever Cub imagines what it would have been like to welcome baby Jesus as Mama Bear tells the story of Jesus’ birth from Luke 2.

Clever Cub Explores God’s Creation

• Clever Cub snuggles up with Mama Bear as she teaches him from Genesis 1 about how God created sky, water, mountains, beaches—and clever cubs like him!

Clever Cub Sings to God

• A wonderful way to introduce young readers to praying and singing the psalms, this lively exploration of Psalm 104 inspires kids to praise God for all He has done.

Clever Cub Gives Thanks to God

• As Mama Bear tells Clever Cub the story of Peter and John healing a man in Acts 3, Clever Cub learns ways he can show gratitude to God, too!

About Bob Hartman:
Performance storyteller Bob Hartman is the author of the YouVersion Bible App for Kids Bible stories, that have been downloaded 70 million times. His long list of children’s titles have sold over a million copies, including The Lion Storyteller Bible, which has been printed in eleven different languages. As an ordained minister, his passion is to help people of every age find their way into the Bible, engage with it and discover the God who inspired it. Bob is married to Sue, has two married children, Kari and Chris, and five grandchildren. For more information or to connect with Hartman, visit Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About Steve Brown:
Steve Brown (stevebrownillustration.co.uk) is a UK-based freelance children’s illustrator with a passion for telling stories through his art and using humor to delight children and adults alike.

About David C Cook:
David C Cook is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the global Church with life-transforming, Christ-centered materials. Headquartered in Colorado Springs, Colorado—with offices in Illinois, Ohio, Tennessee, and the United Kingdom—David C Cook produces resources that are published in over 150 languages and distributed in more than 170 countries. Originally founded in 1875 as a curriculum publisher, David C Cook now also publishes numerous bestselling books, resources, music (Integrity Music), and media from a variety of award-winning authors and artists. Learn more about David C Cook’s mission at DavidCCook.org.

ATTN MEDIA:
Bob Hartman, Clever Cub Bible Stories review and giveaway copies are available upon request. High-resolution cover artwork and other press materials are available now at https://app.box.com/v/BobHartmanCleverCubPress.

For additional information, contact:
Maureen Hoganson, MaureenHoganson@comcast.net
Rick Hoganson, Hoganson@comcast.net
Hoganson Media Relations, 615-459-9870

New children’s book, “Walter Does His Best: A Frenchie Adventure in Kindness and Muddy Paws” debuts Sept. 7, 2021

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Aug. 18, 2021) – The effort to be kind and books on kindness continue to be very relevant in the parent-child spaces. Soon to be a mother herself, “Good Morning America’s” Eva Pilgrim hopes her French Bulldog Walter can teach little humans this invaluable trait in her first children’s book, Walter Does His Best: A Frenchie Adventure in Kindness and Muddy Paws, debuting Tues., Sept. 7.

Walter Does His Best is a hilarious, dog adventure story, that encourages kids to remember that being kind does not require perfection but rather one’s best effort and intention. Young readers will see that Walter’s heart is full of kindness as they join him on a mission of kindness throughout New York City. From Central Park to Broadway to Times Square, Walter tries his best to help his neighbors along the way, but his efforts don’t go as planned. Whether on the subway, at the Rockefeller Center gardens, or Coney Island, Walter’s attempts to put his best paw forward and be a good dog.

“Being kind seems like a small act, but when you add it all up it can really make a big impact on you and those around you, even if you don’t immediately see it,” said Pilgrim. “Kindness isn’t just something you give other people, it changes you too.”

Walter Does His Best encourages children to look for opportunities to be kind while also affirming that everyone makes mistakes. Pilgrim wants young people to know that kindness is a strength, and everyone has an opportunity to make the world brighter, one action at a time.

Born in Seoul, South Korea, Pilgrim grew up in Columbia, S.C. A New Yorker now, many know her from ABC’s “Good Morning America: Weekend Edition,” where she co-hosts with fellow correspondents, Rob Marciano, Dan Harris and Adrienne Bankert.

From a young age, Pilgrim’s mother taught her that being kind was the best thing she could be and offer to others. Pilgrim still lives by that philosophy, so much so that she and her colleagues at “Good Morning America” developed a #nicegirls movement which she believes makes the newsroom a happier place.

“Having a dog as happy and loving as Walter inspires me to continue to bring kindness into this world,” said Pilgrim. “Walter definitely has a big heart and always means well, but it would be an understatement to say he creates a lot of messes. You can’t help but laugh with him and appreciate his efforts.”

According to the American Kennel Association, the French bulldog – aka the Frenchie – is the 2^nd most popular breed in the USA. Playful, smart, adaptable and a chart-busting “lovey-dovey” level on the affectionate with family and openness to humans scale, making Walter completely irresistible.

Walter Does His Best: A Frenchie Adventure in Kindness and Muddy Paws (ISBN: 9781400226771) will be released on September 7, 2021 everywhere books are sold.

About the Eva Pilgrim
Born in Seoul, South Korea, Eva grew up in Columbia, South Carolina and now calls New York City home. Eva is an ABC correspondent and co-host of “Good Morning America: Weekend Edition.” Connect with Eva and Walter on Instagram at @evapilgrim and @walterunleashed.

About Tommy Nelson
Tommy Nelson® is the children’s division of Thomas Nelson. As a leading provider of Christian content, Tommy Nelson publishes a wide variety of high-quality, enjoyable products that are consistent with the teachings found in the Bible. Tommy Nelson’s award-winning products are designed to expand children’s imaginations and nurture their faith while inspiring them to develop a personal relationship with Jesus. For more information, visit www.tommynelson.com.

Media contact:  Natividad Lewis, Publicist, 931.698.9620, natividad.lewis@harpercollins.com