Karen Kingsbury’s Let Me Hold You Longer Featured in Tear-Filled Tribute

CAROL STREAM, ILL. (May 4, 2020) – When Jessica Hundley decided this past weekend to film herself reading Karen Kingsbury’s Let Me Hold You Longer (ISBN: 978-1-4143-8987-5, Tyndale House Publishers, 2004) to the class of 2020, she couldn’t have imagined what would follow. Hundley, a library media specialist at Hardin County schools in Elizabethtown, KY, read the highly emotive book in an equally poignant way, and it resonated with viewers to the tune of 1.5 million views in the first 48 hours. The video, which has now been viewed 2.7 million times, is available here:
https://www.facebook.com/KarenKingsbury/videos/10223335159753668

“I’m still overwhelmed with the response,” said Hundley. “This is so amazing. Karen’s book is beautiful on so many levels. I’m tickled that it has reached so many people.”

After Hundley posted the video on her Facebook page, it was brought to Kingsbury’s attention. The New York Times bestselling author sought permission from Hundley to post it on her social pages and did so midday Tuesday. In just over 24 hours, it reached one million views, and the video has now been viewed more than 2.7 million times. The video has driven sales of the book as well. Published by Tyndale House Publishers (@tyndalehouse), it has reached as high as No. 13 among all books on Amazon and No. 20 on Barnes & Noble.

Let Me Hold You Longer, which has sold more than 400,000 copies since its initial printing in 2004, features heartwarming illustrations and a sweet, reflective tone that encourages parents to savor not only their children’s firsts, like first steps and first words, but the lasts as well.

With the tenderness of a mother speaking directly to her child, Karen reminds us not to miss last days of kindergarten and last at-bats in Little League amid the whirlwind of life. Adapted from a poem in her novel Rejoice, the book allows mothers and grandmothers everywhere to identify with the tenderhearted reflections on its pages.

A link to additional information about the book is available here: https://www.tyndale.com/p/let-me-hold-you-longer/9781414389875

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 $100 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.

Nashville, April 30, 2020 – The United Methodist Publishing House (UMPH) reported today that a combination of pre-COVID-19 trends, the impact of the pandemic on church attendance since mid-March, and the unpredictable rates at which congregations will return to regular activities for the remainder of 2020, will result in sales levels that are 40% to 50% lower than the same period last year.

“Taken together, these factors require that UMPH make major adjustments in spending now, including a reduction in force starting June 13 affecting approximately 70 of the Publishing House’s 296 workforce,” said Rev. Brian Milford, President & Publisher.

“The planned staff reduction will begin mid-June and is a wrenching decision that I deeply regret” said Milford. He noted that UMPH is completely self-funding through its own operations and receives no grants from the UMC’s general funds.

“For 230 years UMPH has only spent what it was able to earn through the publishing and sale of resources including Sunday school curriculum, worship resources, small group studies, Bibles, and other products,” said Milford. He explained that over the decades UMPH has contributed nearly $50M toward UMC clergy pensions and millions more for products that were needed for the Church’s outreach and mission but could not earn sufficient revenue to pay the cost of their development. “UMPH is a ministry that can only continue to serve the Church by practicing vigilant and prudent stewardship,” he added.

“The Board of Directors and staff are saddened by the hardship and heartbreak for those who through no fault of their own are affected by the planned staffing cutbacks,” said Milford.  Persons whose jobs will end June 13 will receive their full salary and benefits through that date because of the federal Paycheck Protection Program. To help with their transition they will also receive severance payments from UMPH and additional benefits under the CARES Act for which they qualify.

CHICAGO, IL— Independent Publishers Group (IPG) has added five new publishers to its general and Spanish distribution programs.

In IPG’s general distribution program, Connell Publishing started on November 1, 2019, and KiCam expanded its distribution to include print books on January 1, 2020. Connell Publishing has two ongoing series: Connell Guides, a series of 62 study guides on literature and history, and All You Need to Know, short introductions about history, politics, current affairs and philosophy. KiCam is an inspirational nonfiction publisher dedicated to changing the world one great story at a time by bringing to life true stories of survival and recovery.

“IPG is continuing to look forward during this unpredictable and unprecedented time,” said Richard T. Williams, VP, Publisher Development. “We feel it is important to double down on the future by continuing to optimize our services for our clients and advising them on how best to manage their businesses through an injured marketplace. We are excited to have so many new partners across all IPG programs who will need growth more than ever.”

And in IPG’s Spanish distribution program, Libros del Kultrum and Editorial Fineo will both start on June 1, 2020. Libros del Kultrum is an independent trade publisher with an impeccable reputation for its highly acclaimed authors, publishing a wide range of music books, mostly in the forms of memoirs, biographies, diaries, lyrics and interviews. Editorial Fineo publishes manuals and focuses on subjects such as democracy, art, history, theater, cinema, music and emotional education.

Vegueta Ediciones starts its distribution in the program on August 1. Vegueta Ediciones, based in Barcelona, publishes fiction, poetry and children’s literature that promote tolerance and diversity.

“These three Spanish-language publishers each offer unique titles that are new to the U.S. market,” said Kelsey Mrjoian, Manager, Spanish Distribution Program. “We are thrilled to welcome them and support their growth during this unprecedented time.”

About Independent Publishers Group (IPG)
Founded in 1971, IPG was the first organization specifically created for the purpose of marketing titles from independent presses to the book trade. Today, IPG’s wide reach into the book market includes distribution of both print and e-books from a wide array of publishers, digital printing and traditional publishing. With consistent growth year over year, IPG’s success has come from supporting and encouraging the growth of its publishing partners in the United States and worldwide. IPG was acquired by Chicago Review Press in 1987, and this acquisition formed the parent company Chicago Review Press, Inc., which now owns Chicago-based indie publishers Chicago Review Press and Triumph Books.

Contact: Alisse Goldsmith-Wissman | Publicity Manager | 312.337.0747 | agoldsmithwissman@ipgbook.com

 

Daisy Hutton and Karen Longino at Hachette Nashville acquired North American rights to Mary Katherine (MK) Backstrom’s nonfiction work Holy Hot Mess, in an exclusive submission. Mike Salisbury at Yates & Yates represented the author, saying MK is one of a kind. “MK has that rare talent to blend humor and honesty into a fun, authentic voice.” Daisy Hutton added, “MK’s voice is fresh and so very fabulous – she has an uncanny ability to help us find both the sacred and the hilarity amidst the messiest of realities. Our team is looking forward to helping her build her career as an author.”

In Holy Hot Mess, founder of Mom Babble and viral blogger MK shares personal, heartbreaking and humorous stories about the messiness of life, and showing how God uses each mess in our life to bring us closer to Him. Recently, MK appeared on the Ellen Show after her Facebook video “My Most Embarrassing Moment (Christmas is SO Magical)” received over 100 million views.

Holy Hot Mess is slated for early Fall 2021.

By Jennifer Howard, April 2020

(Colorado Springs, CO) — The world is changing but the need for the message of Christ is not. Magazine Training International (MTI) is dedicated to helping Christians in publishing as they navigate the perils of publishing during lock-downs, meeting the needs of their readers, and supporting their staff.

MTI’s blog (https://magazinetraining.com/category/blog/) focuses on news and tips on magazine publishing, but now contains an aggregated collection of tips on covering the COVID-19 story. This collection is added to daily.

Tips include articles on how journalists can take care of themselves while covering trauma, how to report on the pandemic with a non-science background, how to find and vet experts, and how different media outlets around the world are covering the story.

MTI recognizes that self-care and creative coverage are not the only important topics of the COVID-19 story. In addition to these tips, MTI includes key quotes from experts regarding various aspects of the pandemic, ways to fact-check information and debunk misinformation, and sources of reliable, up-to-date information and statistics.

MTI uses social media to encourage its community of Christians in publishing to share their local news, requests for prayer, and creative ways their ministry is handling this crisis. In a time when many are afraid to touch their mail, and therefore print magazines, many publishers have released their articles online without a paywall. Others are releasing audio articles, determined to continue to show God’s goodness.

In 2017, MTI hosted the first “Crisis Publishing Initiative” conference, with sessions on a variety of topics for journalists covering crisis situations. Twenty-two recorded sessions from that conference are available for free in the MTI Online library (https://magazinetraining.com/mti-online/).

MTI continues to offer its online training program, including e-books, training videos, live workshops, and online courses.

As many around the globe are in various stages of lockdown, MTI continues to provide opportunities for professional development to Christians in publishing.

About Magazine Training International:  The mission of Magazine Training International is to encourage, strengthen, and provide resources to Christian magazines as they seek to build the church and reach their societies for Christ. Over the last 31 years, MTI offered 70 conferences, courses, and seminars in East/Central Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America. In addition to courses and conferences, MTI provides online courses and workshops, free e-books, training videos, course manuals in a dozen languages, and other print digital, audio, and audio-visual materials in a resource-packed library on MTI’s website.  More information is available on our website and Facebook.

Media Contact:  Sharon Mumper, President, (719) 598-9743  smumper@magazinetraining.com

WESTMONT, IL—InterVarsity Press is pleased to announce that they will be partnering with Rain Ministries to serve as the official publisher of First Nations Version of the full New Testament, which is scheduled to release in 2021. The First Nations Version of the New Testament is a new translation, attempting to capture the simplicity, clarity, and beauty of our Native storytellers in English, while remaining faithful to the original language of the New Testament.

“The First Nations Version is a groundbreaking, fresh translation of the New Testament filled with vivid, evocative language and imagery,” said Al Hsu, senior editor for IVP. “It helps modern readers discover the power of Scripture by conveying the biblical story through the sensibilities and cadences of Native oral storytelling tradition. We experience the kingdom of God as walking Creator’s Good Road, and we encounter Jesus as Creator Sets Free, the Chosen One. It is an honor to partner with Terry Wildman and the FNV team in heralding the great story to new peoples.”

The First Nations Version: New Testament is authored by Terry M. Wildman with input from the First Nations Version Translation Council and Native reviewers. The First Nations Version was first envisioned by Wildman and with the help of OneBook.ca and Wycliffe Associates has expanded into a collaborative effort that includes First Nations/Native Americans from over twenty-five tribes.

Wildman said, “You might call this a contextual translation in English, in the tradition of the storytellers of oral culture. While it is not tribally specific, it is intended to relate in a general way to all our First Nations people. The FNV is not only a gift to our First Nations people but we also consider it an offering from First Nations people to the world. It is similar in concept to The Message by Eugene Peterson or The Living Bible by Kenneth N. Taylor. But it is different in the sense that it attempts to convey the rhythm and feel of an oral storyteller from our Turtle Island (North American) cultures.”

This project was birthed out of a desire to provide an English Bible that connects, in a culturally sensitive way, the traditional heart languages of the over six million English-speaking First Nations people of North America. The First Nations Version Translation Council has been selected from a cross section of Native North Americans—elders, pastors, young adults, and men and women from differing tribes and diverse geographic locations. This council also represents a diversity of church and denominational traditions to minimize bias.

Megan Murdock Krischke serves as the director for Native InterVarsity, a ministry of InterVarsity Christian Fellowship. She said, “The FNV has quickly become a go-to resource for Native InterVarsity across the nation. We are using it in our small group Bible studies, and it is influencing the words we choose when we invite students to the full life that Creator Sets Free (Jesus) offers. The word choices of the FNV not only resonate with Native students but they are offering a fresh hearing of Scripture for non-Natives. For example, when we talk about bad hearts and broken ways people can see that in themselves and others. But when we talk about sin, defenses and blinders go up immediately. I would recommend the FNV to any Native person who wants to learn more about Jesus and any non-Native person who longs to be able to read Scripture with new eyes.”

The FNV is a retelling of the Creator’s Story—the Scriptures—following the tradition of the storytellers of these oral cultures. Many of the First Nations tribes still resonate with the cultural and linguistic thought patterns found in their original tongues. This way of speaking, with its simple yet profound beauty and rich cultural idioms, still resonates in the hearts of First Nations people.

L. Daniel Hawk, professor of Old Testament and Hebrew at Ashland Theological Seminary, said, “Reading theFirst Nations Version: New Testament is like listening to a wise elder pass down ancient teachings. Its oral cadences give the Scriptures new room to breathe. While contemporary translations focus on updating language in a modern mode, the FNV recaptures the sense of tradition that binds faithful readers to our past and to the story that tells us who we are. It is a good gift to everyone who walks the Jesus Way.”

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

 

CAROL STREAM, Ill.— May 1, 2020— Tyndale House Publishers is pleased to announce that Chris Fabry, five-time Christy Award–winning author and 2018 inductee to the Christy Award Hall of Fame, was inducted into the Marshall University School of Journalism and Mass Communications Hall of Fame.

Chris Dickerson, president of the Marshall University School of Journalism and Mass Communications Hall of Fame Advisory Board, announced the news in a press release on April 29, 2020. In it, he shared, “We are extremely proud of all of our graduates, and it is an honor to welcome five more very deserving members to our hall of fame.”

The release further stated: “Fabry, a 1982 SOJMC graduate, is a bestselling author and an award-winning broadcaster. Primarily focusing his work on family and Christian issues, the Culloden native has written more than 80 books—including titles that have landed him on the New York Times bestseller lists—and has hosted national radio programs for more than 35 years.”

Karen Watson, publisher of Tyndale fiction, shared, “Having observed Chris over more than two decades in publishing, I have seen him display a consistently high level of professionalism through the challenges of a long career in broadcasting and writing. Whether managing a demanding schedule with competing deadlines or adapting to the sobering realities of a rapidly changing media landscape, Chris’s admirable personal integrity, his wit, and his resilience have consistently stood out. I am delighted that he has received this much-deserved recognition.”

Chris Fabry, a 1982 graduate of the W. Page Pitt School of Journalism and Mass Communications at Marshall University, is an award-winning author and radio personality who hosts the daily program Chris Fabry Live on Moody Radio. He is also heard on Love Worth Finding, Building Relationships with Dr. Gary Chapman, and other radio programs. A native of West Virginia, Chris and his wife, Andrea, now live in Arizona and are the parents of nine children.

Chris’s novels, which include Overcomer, Dogwood, June Bug, Almost Heaven, The Promise of Jesse Woods, and Under a Cloudless Sky, have won five Christy Awards, an ECPA Christian Book Award, and two Awards of Merit from Christianity Today, but it’s his lyrical prose and tales of redemption that keep readers returning for more.

Chris has also published more than 70 other books, ranging from nonfiction and film novelizations, including the bestseller War Room, to novels for children and young adults. He coauthored the Left Behind: The Kids series with Jerry B. Jenkins and Tim LaHaye, as well as the Red Rock Mysteries and The Wormling series with Jerry B. Jenkins.

For more information on Tyndale fiction titles, please visit tyndale.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 $100 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.

 

Debut author’s reflections on journeying well with God and others releases May 5 with NavPress

COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO. (May 1, 2020)—Debut author Maggie Wallem Rowe’s This Life We Share: 52 Reflections on Journeying Well with God and Others (NavPress, ISBN: 978-1-64158-007-6, HC, $17.99) releases May 5 from NavPress and it is already resonating with readers as it debuted on the Barnes & Noble bestsellers list at No. 59 among all books on Friday, May 1.

Wrote New York Times bestselling author Beth Moore, “I love Maggie Rowe so much and am so thankful for what God has called her to do.”

This Life We Share is a woman’s guide to living well—from the inner journey of dealing with anxiety and insecurity to the everyday moments of waiting and distraction to practical principles for parenting, grandparenting, and aging.

Acquisitions editor Caitlyn Carlson said, “As our world weathers disruption and fear, we’re grateful for Maggie’s wisdom and encouragement about the ways we walk through this life together, even when we are apart. This book is a balm for the weary heart.”

Jesus once said of the woman who anointed his feet, “She did what she could” (Mark 14:8, NIV)—and that is the goal of this book: to provide insights and wisdom for walking through life with the confidence that you’re doing what you can to live well for God, love others, and take care of yourself.

Additional information about This Life We Share is available at https://www.navpress.com/p/this-life-we-share/9781641580076.

Maggie Wallem Rowe is a national speaker, dramatist, blogger, and writer who has contributed to more than ten books, including numerous devotional Bibles. Maggie has traveled extensively throughout the United States and abroad, performing original one-woman dramas that she authored and speaking at outreach programs, conferences, community events, and retreats. She holds an undergraduate degree in communications with a minor in education, as well as a graduate degree in biblical studies, both from Wheaton College (IL). Maggie lives near Asheville, NC, with her husband, Mike. The Rowes have three adult children and five grandchildren. This Life We Share is her first book. Visit Maggie at www.MaggieRowe.com.

The NavPress mission is to advance the calling of The Navigators by bringing biblically rooted, culturally relevant, and highly practical products to people who want to know and love Christ more deeply. Through The Message Bible and other insightful resources, NavPress seeks to bring positive spiritual movement to peoples’ lives. In January 2014, NavPress entered into an alliance with Tyndale House Publishers to strengthen and better position NavPress and its rich content for the future. NavPress provides books and other content that bring spiritual impact, life transformation, and help lead in the mission of making disciples.

May 1, 2020 – Today, the Parable Group released its Back to the Bookstore: Retail Toolkit for Post-Covid-19 Times, providing ready-to-use resources, stock-up specials, articles, and tools to help any and all Christian retailers prepare to reopen their store and begin serving customers face-to-face again.

“After weeks of closed doors, retailers and shoppers are becoming eager to get back to the bookstore,” stated Greg Squires, President of The Parable Group. “We hope these resources accelerate Christian retailers’ return to business and propel shoppers to recommit their support for their local bookstores.”

The Back to the Bookstore: Retail Toolkit for Post-Covid-19 Times includes dozens of social media assets, ready-to-send email templates, postcard artwork, printable door/window signs, and bag stuffer ideas along with health and safety tips and printable checklists. Reopening stock-up specials from HarperCollins Christian Publishing and other key publishers are also included in the toolkit.

Along with the marketing materials, these articles are also available to encourage and guide retailers: 3 Predicted Shifts in Consumer Behavior and Preparing Your Staff & Store to Serve Customers.

To access the Back to the Bookstore Retail Toolkit and articles, click 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

Abigail Cowen, Tom Lewis, Logan Marshall Green, Famke Janseen, Nina Dobrev and Eric Dane star in Francine River’s Timeless Love Story

Produced by Nthibah Pictures, Pure Flix Entertainment, Mission Pictures International

Nationwide Theatrical Release Set for Spring 2021

REDEEMING LOVE, a big screen adaptation of Francine Rivers’ best-selling novel, has been announced as a theatrical release nationwide for spring 2021.

Directed by D.J. Caruso (xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE), the film boasts an ensemble cast of Abigail Cowen (FATE: THE WINX SAGA, I STILL BELIEVE, SABRINA), Tom Lewis (GENTLEMAN JACK), Logan Marshall Green(UPGRADE, SPIDER-MAN: HOMECOMING), Famke Janssen (X-MEN, TAKEN), Nina Dobrev (xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE, VAMPIRE DIARIES) and Eric Dane (GREY’S ANATOMY, THE LAST SHIP, X-MEN).

Principal photography completed in March, where production transformed Cape Town, South Africa into California and Boston during the Gold Rush Era of the 1850’s.

The film is based on the novel Redeeming Love, which has remained on multiple fiction best-seller lists for over 15 years, sold over three million copies, and has been published in more than 30 languages.

Francine Rivers, the New York Times best-selling author of over 30 books, who co-wrote the screenplay with director D.J. Caruso shares her excitement to see the story come to the big screen. “This is a dream come true, not just for me, but for so many who have been asking when Redeeming Love would become a movie,” says Rivers. “I am delighted that we recently completed production with an amazing director and cast. I can’t wait to see it on the big screen early next year.”

Director Caruso admits that when his wife introduced him to the novel, he immediately felt the passion and vision to make a great film and to write these complex and dynamic characters with Rivers. “While many are victims of horrible circumstances that will haunt them forever, some characters are able to overcome the pain, the sorrow and the brutality to discover how remarkable they truly are,” states Caruso. “Angel’s journey reminds us that healing happens through love and acceptance, never through judgment or force.”

Caruso’s directing credits include xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE (Vin Diesel), EAGLE EYE (Shia LaBeouf, Michelle Monaghan, Billy Bob Thornton), I AM NUMBER FOUR (Alex Pettyfer), DISTURBIA (Shia LaBeouf) and the upcoming xXx 4.

REDEEMING LOVE is produced by Cindy Bond, through her Mission Pictures International label; Simon Swart and Wayne Fitzjohn, through their Nthibah Pictures production banner; and Michael Scott, David A.R. White and Brittany Yost for Pure Flix Entertainment. The executive producers are Francine Rivers and Roma Downey through LightWorkers.

The film will mark the second collaboration in two years between Cindy Bond and Simon Swart, who produced the immensely successful inspirational film, I CAN ONLY IMAGINE. Michael Scott and David A.R. White are founding partners of Pure Flix Entertainment, the leading independent faith and family studio in the world.

REDEEMING LOVE is a powerful and contemporary retelling of the biblical book of Hosea. The timeless love story takes place against the romantic backdrop of the California Gold Rush of 1850. The story centers on Angel (Cowen), whowas sold into prostitution as a child. She has survived through hatred and self-loathing, until she meets Michael Hosea (Lewis) and discovers there is no brokenness that love can’t heal. The story reflects the redemptive power of unconditional and sacrificial love with characters and circumstances relevant to the contemporary world.

Producer Cindy Bond believes the film will deliver the transformational message that hope and love can overcome even the darkest of times. “Francine Rivers’ Redeeming Love is iconic. It is the most romantic and meaningful story I’ve ever read,” says Bond. “Powerfully brought to life by D.J.’s incredible creative vision and passion, this is a story that will move the hearts of all audiences for many years to come.  We are honored to be producing this beautiful love letter of a film for such a time as this.”

Francine Rivers is represented by Browne & Miller Literary Associates and IPG.

D.J. Caruso, Logan Marshall-Green, Nina Dobrev, and Eric Dane are represented by CAA.  Abigail Cowen is represented by Paradigm and LINK Entertainment.Tom Lewis is represented by Independent Talent. Famke Janssen is represented by ICM Partners.

Information will be featured on the web site www.RedeemingLoveMovie.com