Nashville, Tenn. (July 10, 2024) – Jack Countryman is announcing his retirement as Publisher Emeritus of the Nelson Gift division. What began more than 40 years ago around his kitchen table grew into a long and successful career of publishing more than 30 million books.

“Few people have made such a huge impact in Christian publishing as Jack Countryman,” said Mark Schoenwald, CEO of HarperCollins Christian Publishing.  “He has been a tremendous visionary, leader, and publisher. Jack led the way to create the category of inspirational Gift books. It has truly been a privilege to know and work with him.”

In 1982 Jack and his wife Marsha started the J Countryman publishing company with the release of God’s Promises for Your Every Need. That title went on to be published in numerous editions and multiple languages, and was still on the ECPA bestseller list in May 2024.

“Jack has been a brilliant mentor. He graciously shared the secrets of publishing Gift books,” said Laura Minchew, Sr. Vice President and Group Publisher of Children and Gift books. “None of us will forget the joy and encouragement he offered through his sayings such as “This one will sell like popcorn!”

The impact of Jack’s work will live on through the more than 100 books he authored and by publishing bestselling authors including Billy Graham, Ann Graham Lotz, OS Hawkins, Hank Hanegraaff, and many others. He is the recipient of the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association’s Kip Jordan Lifetime Achievement Award. 

Jack inspires us all with this advice: “If you want to make a difference, create books that will touch lives and change lives. You may never know the impact you could have on someone through this good work.”

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

JULY 2024| LISLE, IL—IVP Kids is pleased to announce that God, Right Here won a 2024 Catholic Media Award, receiving first place in the Children’s Book Non–Reader category. The CMA Awards spotlight various genres, from theology and spirituality to historical accounts, children’s literature, and more, appreciating the diversity and richness within Catholic writing.

Written by Kara Lawler and illustrated by Jennie Poh, God, Right Here also earned the 2023 gold Mom’s Choice Award Honoring Excellence Seal of Approval.

God, Right Here is a celebration of God’s creation and the changing seasons. It reminds children that God’s handiwork can be found all throughout nature and every season is full of beauty and wonder. No matter the time of year, the wonders of creation reflect that God is always with us, always right here.

“In God, Right Here, whimsical illustrations combine with captivating narrative to form a celebration of seasons and the God who is present in each one,” said Jenny Albers, author of Courageously Expecting. “Children will adore encountering the treasures found in nature, all while discovering that God is right here, in everything. While we delight in God’s creation, God delights in us—always—which is the message this beautiful book will plant in the hearts of our children.”

Kara Lawler holds a BA in English and an MA in education. She is the author of Everywhere Holy, and her writing has also appeared on The Today Show, Huffington Post, and Parenting.com. As a contributor to magazines and websites, some of Kara’s essays have been read and shared millions of times.

Jennie Poh studied Fine Art at The Surrey Institute of Art & Design, alongside illustration courses at Central Saint Martins. As an illustrator, she loves to connect with nature—namely through making her own paintbrushes and textures with leaves, bark, flowers, and anything else she may find while walking outside. She also enjoys using watercolor and inks, which make wonderful splatters and splotches on the page.

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

Contact:  Krista Clayton, kclayton@ivpress.com

Colorado Springs, CO (July 15, 2024)—Focus on the Family, in alliance with Tyndale House Publishers, will release six new kids, middle-grade, and YA titles in the fall of 2024. The new products—Average Boy’s Above-Average Summer, Even in Darkness, Read Again and Again Old Testament Bible Storybook, Read Again and Again New Testament Bible Storybook, A New Perspective (Adventures in Odyssey), In My Own Way, and I’m Alive, Dear Mama!—equip parents to raise their children with thriving faith.

INFANT AND PRESCHOOL KIDS

Read Again and Again Old and New Testament Bible Storybooks by Focus on the Family
These two Bible storybooks help children discover new truths about well-known Bible stories and Bible characters while also introducing families to stories they’ve never heard before. These books are a great way for parents to start important conversations with their children (ages 3–7) about God and how to know Jesus as Savior. Kids will not only listen to the stories but will ask to read them again and again as they learn how to apply God’s Word to their lives.

Each kids’ illustrated Bible storybook includes colorful illustrations and engaging characters, interactive questions to help the reader live out their faith, and age-appropriate salvation messages to help kids understand how they can have a relationship with Jesus. These storybooks are perfect for Sunday school, church giveaways, and family devotions.

I’m Alive, Dear Mama! by Jennifer Wilder Morgan
I’m Alive, Dear Mama! is a fully illustrated book for kids (ages 3–5) that shares a sweet commentary on how a baby in the womb is noticing the joys and sadnesses of life now and can’t wait to experience these things someday fully with the family. Expectation and hope abound as the child learns of the promises of earthly life through Mama’s daily activities. Beautiful art fills the pages, celebrating the miracle and journey of human life and its true, priceless value from conception through adulthood.

The book features parenting discussion questions and activities for families to use together. In addition, families of different cultures, environments, and economic classes are represented, demonstrating the larger journey of human life around the world.

This precious message from unborn babies to their mothers makes a heartwarming baby shower gift or gift for parents-to-be.

ELEMENTARY KIDS

Average Boy’s Above-Average Summer by Bob Smiley and Jesse Florea
The Average Boy series features humorous writing and whimsical illustrations to help readers embrace the idea that life isn’t always about being the smartest, most athletic, or best-looking kid in the neighborhood. Faith, family, and friends are far more valuable than being perceived as “cool.”

“Average Boy” Bob Smiley reaches the end of an above-average school year, and now he has plans to have the best summer possible. He will finally build the tree house that he has been planning with his best friend, Billy. This summer he also plans to invite everyone in town to church.

There will be challenges along the way—like Donny, the school bully, or Sarah and Everley and their water balloons. But Average Boy’s biggest challenge this summer is the Huge Hairy Hisser, who lurks in the woods and seems determined to ruin his tree house plans.

Perfect for elementary kids (ages 8–12), Average Boy is here to make readers laugh and encourage kids in their faith.

A New Perspective: Six Stories on Kindness, Listening, and Reconciliation by Focus on the Family, Adventures in Odyssey #77
Adventures in Odyssey audio dramas release the imagination of both young and old as listeners follow a host of characters through adventures in the town of Odyssey. Geared toward kids (ages 7+), these high-quality audio dramas teach biblical truths and moral foundations for children to make decisions from throughout their lives. They are perfect for car rides and initiating important conversations with kids.

Album 77 returns to the cliff-hangers from album 76, Keep It Together.

TEENS AND YA

Even in Darkness by Tim Shoemaker, High Water #5
While diving in Rockport Harbor, Parker Buckman makes a terrifying discovery that convinces him to stay out of the water. His best friend, Harley Lotitto, has his own dilemma and needs Parker’s help. But Harley is in more danger than anyone realizes. His uncle Ray has cornered Harley into secretly finding evidence that is powerful enough to get Ray out of jail—and put a worse man behind bars. If Harley succeeds, Quinn Lochran will get multiple life sentences. Lochran has a dark plan to make sure that evidence never sees the light of day. Ray’s “get-out-of-jail” ticket might become Harley and Parker’s death warrants.

Jelly and Ella know the boys are up to something. They are determined to help the boys, but unless their friends open up to them, they feel powerless. Even though they have survived deadly situations together before, this time escape seems more hopeless than ever.

Even in Darkness is the fifth book in the High Water series and blends contemporary mystery and suspense, dramatic situations, and high adventure that boys and girls (ages 12+) love.

In My Own Way by Kathy Buchanan, Riverbend Friends #8
Amelia Bryan is eager to pursue her dream of acting, but she does not think she looks the way that the characters are “supposed” to look. But there are some surprises in store for Amelia. She learns that she has the kindness of her friends, the guidance of God, and a supportive note from a boy at theater camp: Chin up, Amelia. You can do this. Your way.

Today’s girls can relate to Amelia’s struggles with appearance and identity. The Riverbend Friends series addresses these topics from a healthy Christian perspective and helps parents have important conversations about tough topics with their teens.

In My Own Way is the eighth book in a series that travels alongside four friends as they deal with teen life in Riverbend, Indiana. This novel inspires young women (ages 12–16) to deepen their relationship with God as they face real-life issues and solve their problems in God-honoring ways.

For more information or for media inquiries, please contact Natalie Wierenga (nataliewierenga@tyndale.com). Further information regarding upcoming Focus on the Family kids titles below. Titles are listed in order of release.

• Average Boy’s Above-Average Summer | ISBN: 978-1-64607-152-4 Softcover: $12.99 | September 17, 2024
• Even in Darkness | ISBN: 978-1-64607-098-5 Softcover: $16.99 | September 17, 2024
• Read Again and Again Old Testament Bible Storybook | ISBN: 978-1-64607-137-1 Hardcover: $17.99 | September 17, 2024
• Read Again and Again New Testament Bible Storybook | ISBN: 978-1-64607-138-8 Hardcover: $17.99 | September 17, 2024
• A New Perspective | ISBN: 978-1-64607-162-3 CD: $18.99 | October 8, 2024
• In My Own Way | ISBN: 978-1-64607-091-6 Softcover: $16.99 | November 2024
• I’m Alive, Dear Mama! | ISBN: 978-1-64607-146-3 Hardcover: $14.99 | November 2024

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 substantial portion of annual revenue—millions of dollars per year—through corporate donations and the work of Tyndale House Foundation. With every book purchased, Tyndale readers help meet the physical and spiritual needs of people around the world.  Tyndale.com

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

Contact:  Natalie Wierenga, nataliewierenga@tyndale.com, 630.784.5211

Carol Stream, IL (July 15, 2024)—Tyndale House Publishers will release five new kids, middle-grade, and YA books in the fall of 2024. In line with Tyndale’s corporate purpose, the new products—Go Bible, My Hair Can, More Pawverbs for Kids, Christmas in the Barnyard, and Hurt Help Hope—are designed to minister to the spiritual needs of children.

INFANT AND PRESCHOOL KIDS

My Hair Can by Matt Forte
Former NFL Pro Bowl running back Matt Forté invites girls and boys to embrace their hair with an uplifting reminder of their self-worth through this joyful rhyming picture book.

What can your hair do? From cool curls to crisp fades, from long locs to beaded braids, bright joyful illustrations of melanated children burst from each page, inspiring self-love and positive self-esteem. But hair love is more than knots, locs, and mohawks. Discover the power of cutting your hair in solidarity with a sick friend or celebrating your heritage with hairstyles from your ancestral roots.

My Hair Can is an encouraging reminder for young readers (ages 4–7) about loving their hair, respecting differences, and celebrating their God-given uniqueness.

Christmas in the Barnyard by Dandi Daley Mackall
Christmas in the Barnyard is a festive farmyard board book to celebrate the birth of Jesus on Christmas Day.

Children (ages 0-4) follow the Christmas Eve barnyard bustle as the animals prepare the stable for the exciting day ahead. The rhyming story makes this the perfect read-aloud for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. Filled with endearing illustrations, the humor and charm of this book make it a great choice for budding little animal lovers. Its sturdy board book pages make it a perfect gift for baby’s first Christmas that will last for years.

This charming tale of farm animals celebrating Christmas makes the perfect companion to the bedtime story Bedtime in the Barnyard.

ELEMENTARY KIDS

NLT Go Bible for Kids: A Life-Changing Bible for Kids
The Go Bible makes it fun and easy to understand the fascinating accounts of God’s heart-changing power found on the pages of his overarching story. The Go Bible includes the complete New Living Translation text in a kid-friendly format, making it easy for kids (ages 7–11) to read and understand. Most importantly, they’ll realize how the truth of these stories impacts their lives today with over 600 colorful and engaging features.

Go Bible features include:

• Complete text of the trustworthy, clear, and accurate New Living Translation (NLT)
• Know, Grow, and Go—Read mini devotions that teach kids to know God’s Word, grow their faith, and go share it with others.
• Key Verse Challenge—Engage with fun activities to help kids memorize Scripture.
• Factoids—Learn interesting facts about life in Bible times.
• True Tales of Transformed People—Enjoy snapshots of people whose lives were forever changed by God.
• Choose to Change—Apply Bible knowledge to modern-day problems.
• 20 Key Moments—This children’s Bible contains info-packed illustrations of the Tabernacle, ark, Egyptian plagues, and more!
• 32 Special Pages—Explore big Bible ideas with full-color illustrations.
• Book introductions—Includes a Seek-and-Find guide, chronological time line, and a big picture view of why the book matters in God’s story.
• 8 Kid-friendly maps—Discover colorful maps with travel routes, kingdom borders, and animal populations.
• 9.5-point font

Kids and their parents can learn more about Go Bible and explore the features of this innovative kids’ Bible by clicking here to see the digital sampler or watching the Go Bible trailer.

More Pawverbs for Kids by Jennifer Marshall Bleakley

In the same format as Jennifer Bleakley’s bestselling Pawverbs series, More Pawverbs for Kids is jam-packed with 30 true-to-life short stories, or pawverbs. Each of these stories features kids and animals, reflection questions, and a child-friendly prayer that illustrate a biblical principle or lesson found in the Bible book of Proverbs. This book presents biblical truth in a whimsical way and invites kids (ages 6–10) to explore deep spiritual truth alongside extremely lovable pets.

God has given us animals, ultimately to point us to himself—to the one who is always there and who loves us unconditionally. In this book, children will not only find inspiring and heartwarming animal tales but spiritual truths to touch their hearts and remind them of God’s unfailing love, wisdom, and grace.

TEENS AND YA

Hurt Help Hope: A Real Conversation about Teen Grief and Life after Loss by Clarissa Moll and Fiona Moll
After the death of a loved one, anyone can be caught up in a whirlwind of emotions and unanswered questions. Hurt Help Hope divides lists of relatable questions into five categories covering topics like the logistics of funerals, how your body copes with grief, how it affects your faith in God, how to manage feelings, and more. Grounded in the hope of Jesus, the authors offer practical advice while engaging readers with quizzes, charts, and graphs to help process the fears, feelings, and all the hard things related to grief.

Hurt Help Hope is a sensitive grief guide written for teens (ages 12–18) by a grieving teen and her mother. Together they offer support, advice, and understanding for navigating life after loss.

For more information or for media inquiries, please contact Natalie Wierenga (nataliewierenga@tyndale.com). Further information regarding upcoming Tyndale Kids and Wander titles below. Titles are listed in order of release.

• Go Bible | ISBN: 978-1-4964-5570-3 | Hardcover: $34.99 | September 3, 2024
• My Hair Can | ISBN: 978-1-4964-8089-7 | Hardcover: $17.99 | September 3, 2024
• More Pawverbs for Kids | ISBN: 978-1-4964-8408-6 | Hardcover: $16.99 | September 3, 2024
• Christmas in the Barnyard | ISBN: 978-1-4964-8258-7 | Board Book: $9.99 | September 3, 2024
• Hurt Help Hope | Softcover: $15.99 | ISBN: 978-1-4964-8724-7 | October 8, 2024

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 substantial portion of annual revenue—millions of dollars per year—through corporate donations and the work of Tyndale House Foundation. With every book purchased, Tyndale readers help meet the physical and spiritual needs of people around the world.Tyndale and Tyndale’s quill logo are registered trademarks of Tyndale House Ministries. Tyndale.com

Contact: Natalie Wierenga, nataliewierenga@tyndale.com, 630.784.5211

Hanha Parham Joins Nelson Books Team, Bringing Passion and Expertise in Transformative Christian Publishing

Nashville, TN – July 12, 2024 – Nelson Books, an imprint of Thomas Nelson, is excited to announce the addition of Hanha Parham as its newest Acquisitions Editor. Parham joined the team in mid-July, bringing her passion for rich content, love for books, and dedication to continue Nelson Books’ mission of producing life-changing Christian publications.

Parham’s impressive background includes a master’s in divinity with a concentration in pastoral counseling, and she is currently pursuing her doctorate in Christian leadership. Her career will be marked by her commitment to publishing books that teach, equip, and disciple readers in the modern world. She combines thoughtful insights with hands-on creative and ministry experience, offering the publishing industry a fresh and innovative perspective.

Andrew Stoddard, VP & Publisher of Nelson Books, expressed his enthusiasm for Parham’s arrival. “We are thrilled that Hanha is joining our acquisition team at Nelson Books. Her passion and enthusiasm for our publications and readers is energizing and will be inspiring to her authors. We look forward to many thoughtful, hopeful, and life-changing publications brought to market through her intentional work with our author and agent community, which I’m sure will be watching her career with interest.”

Parham’s addition to Nelson Books signifies a commitment to continuing the tradition of publishing impactful Christian messages that resonate deeply with readers. Her unique blend of theological education and practical ministry experience positions her as a pivotal force in the future of Christian publishing.

“I am ecstatic about joining Nelson Books and the HarperCollins Christian Publishing community. I am passionate about championing authors and thought leaders to reach and inspire today’s readers,” said Parham. “Our hope is to make a noticeable impact in elevating mindsets and shaping culture. I am honored to be joining a company that has been faithfully preserving and amplifying faith-informed messages of hope and transformation for so many years. It is a dream of mine to join this team of faithful leaders and further that mission for years to come.”

We are confident that Parham’s contributions will further enhance Nelson Books’ reputation as a leader in Christian publishing, and we look forward to the exciting new works that will emerge as a result of her dedicated efforts.

For more information contact Lisa Beech at lisa.beech@harpercollins.com.

Forty-year publishing veteran Paul Santhouse retiring from his role as vice president

(Chicago, Ill.—Jun 24, 2024) Moody Bible Institute announced today that Paul Santhouse, a 40-year veteran in the publishing industry, will be retiring from his role as vice president of publishing at Moody Publishers. His retirement is effective June 30, 2024.

“Under Paul’s leadership, Moody Publishers has grown and expanded their reach and impact, as well as acquired significant resources from authors such as Dr. Gary Chapman, Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth, Dr. Erwin Lutzer, and many others,” said Mark Wagner, chief operating officer for Moody Bible Institute. “Millions of readers around the world have been blessed by Christ-centered, biblically based resources because of Paul’s leadership and our incredible team at Moody Publishers. While we will deeply miss Paul’s thoughtful and humble approach to leadership, I am excited for him and his wife, Rebecca, as they step into this next season to spend precious time with their kids and grandchildren and serve the Lord in a new capacity.”

“What a privilege it has been to serve in this crucial work for more than 20 years,” Santhouse stressed. “Publishing is a team effort requiring dozens of teammates. I am eager to cheer them on as they continue to carry the ministry into the future and am praying God uses their work to glorify His Name and extend His influence far beyond what any of us can imagine.” He added, “Moody Publishers’ resources transcend the boundaries of geography and time, and the seeds we sow through them will still be bearing fruit throughout the world when Jesus Christ returns.”

With Santhouse’s retirement, Moody also announced today the promotion of Randall Payleitner to serve as the next vice president of publishing, effective July 1, 2024.

Payleitner currently serves as publisher. He has also held roles in the Acquisitions, Editorial, Copywriting, and Marketing departments at Moody Publishers. A graduate of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (2005) and Moody Theological Seminary (2009), he also enjoys teaching on publishing and writing at various conferences and in classroom settings. He has also served on several committees with the ECPA.

“As a graduate of Moody, Randall is deeply passionate about, and committed to Moody’s overall mission of helping equip men and women for their calling,” added Wagner. “With his deep knowledge of the publishing industry, and his strategic mindset to grow the impact of Moody through our publishing ministry, Randall is the perfect choice for this next season of Moody Publishers. With Randall at the helm serving alongside our stellar publishing team, I’m excited for what God will do.”

During his time, he has had strategic leadership roles in the continued development of the 5 Love Languages family of resources, The Moody Bible Commentary, the A.W. Tozer line of products and many other projects.

“Paul’s vision, care, expertise and love for the Lord, along with his appreciation for books has been such an encouragement to me. His legacy will be felt for generations,” Payleitner reflected. “Looking to the years ahead, there will always be constant changes within the publishing environment, which means there are wonderful opportunities for us to partner together here at Moody to bring hope to the hurting, equip leadership and tell great stories. My prayer is that the Lord would continue using Moody to resource the Church’s mission of making disciples all over the world.”

For more information about Moody Publishers, please visit www.moodypublishers.com.

About Moody Publishers:
Moody Publishers is a nonprofit Christian publishing house founded by D.L. Moody in 1894 to make affordable Christian books available to everyone. Originally known as the Bible Institute Colportage Association, Moody Publishers has grown to include more than 300 million books being distributed in 71 languages and more than 130 countries, spanning from Bible commentary and reference to spiritual and relational growth, as well as award-winning fiction. Moody Publishers is home to renowned authors such as Gary Chapman, Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth, Tony Evans, Erwin Lutzer, J. Oswald Sanders, Juli Slattery, and A.W. Tozer. For more information Moody Publishers, please visit www.moodypublishers.com.

Contact:  Janis Backing at janis.backing@moody.edu

Nashville, TN – June 25, 2024 – We are thrilled to announce the promotion of Sara Merritt to Vice President of Marketing for Zonderkidz and Blink YA, effective immediately.

Sara Merritt has been an integral part of the Zonderkidz team and HarperCollins Christian Publishing for over 15 years. Throughout her tenure, she has excelled in various marketing roles, contributing significantly to the growth and success of our beloved titles and authors. Notably, Sara has led the growth of The Jesus Storybook Bible brand and spearheaded successful campaigns for many of our top new releases, including those by New York Times bestselling authors Ainsley Earhardt and Linsey Davis.

Megan Dobson, Vice President and Publisher at Zonderkidz and Blink YA, shared her excitement about Sara’s promotion, stating, “Sara is an incredible leader who creates innovative book campaigns and executes well on plans while also showing deep dedication and care for her authors and their books. She is a joy to work with and beloved by her team and colleagues. I look forward to seeing how Sara further inspires and leads the Zonderkidz marketing team into the future.”

Sara’s deep understanding of marketing and publicity, along with her strategic thinking, strong communication and leadership skills, and dedication to our mission of inspiring children and families, make her the perfect fit for this role. In her new position, Sara will continue to foster the growth of our brands and authors, ensuring that Zonderkidz and Blink YA remain leaders in the Christian children’s and young adult publishing markets.

Zonderkidz, an imprint of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, is dedicated to inspiring young lives through imaginative, innovative, and educational resources that represent a Christian worldview. Blink YA, a young adult imprint of HarperCollins Focus, aims to equip and inspire young adults through captivating stories that blend imagination with uplifting messages.

For more information, please contact Ruthie Spaans at Ruthie.Spaans@HarperCollins.com.

About Zonderkidz
Zonderkidz, an imprint of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, is a leading Christian children’s publisher with a long history of beautifully told and illustrated stories. Zonderkidz inspires young lives through imaginative, innovative, and educational resources that represent a Christian worldview and build up God’s children and teens. For more information visit www.Zonderkidz.com.

About Blink YA
Blink is a young adult fiction and nonfiction imprint of HarperCollins Focus. Blink inspires and equips YA readers to lead lives of significance, integrity, and purpose through true stories and fiction that blend imaginative and exciting storytelling and are always uplifting and captivating. For more information visit www.BlinkYABooks.com

Ada, Mich. (June 26, 2024)—On June 18, American Book Fest announced the winners of the 2024 International Book Awards (IBAs). Revell authors Marcus Brotherton and Tosca Lee received the IBA in the Historical Fiction category for their WWII cowrite, The Long March Home: A World War II Novel of the Pacific.

“We are so incredibly honored to shine a light on the allied troops who served in the Philippines during World War II,” said Brotherton and Lee in a joint statement. “It took twelve years of combined research and writing to bring this story to life. We’re grateful that our book, The Long March Home, has resonated with readers on such a significant level. Thank you, International Book Awards.”

Inspired by true events, Brotherton and Lee’s novel takes readers into the Pacific theater for a gripping coming-of-age tale of friendship, sacrifice, and the power of unrelenting hope. Three young men from Alabama, once boyhood friends and now fellow soldiers, fight to survive the Bataan Death March and return to their families—and the girl they left behind.

Winners and finalists of this year’s contest join a prestigious group of past laureates, including Pope Francis, Amy Tan, Anne Lamott, Julie Andrews, and many others.

“We are thrilled to see this recognition for Marcus and Tosca’s incredible work in The Long March Home,” remarked Andrea Doering, editorial director for Revell. “It’s an honor to publish, and celebrate, their exceptional storytelling.”

American Book Fest celebrates the written word in all genres, fiction and nonfiction. The IBAs were created in 2009 to honor excellence in independent and mainstream publishing. It is one of the world’s largest international book award programs for mainstream, indie, and self-published titles. This year’s winners were selected from thousands of entries from authors and publishers around the world. For a complete list, please visit: http://internationalbookawards.com/2024awardannouncement.html.

Marcus Brotherton is the New York Times, USA Today, Publishers Weekly, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author or coauthor of more than 25 books that have been called “fascinating,” “brilliantly arranged,” “magical,” and “refreshingly frank.” To learn more, please visit MarcusBrotherton.com.

Tosca Lee is the award-winning, New York Times bestselling author of 12 novels, including The Line Between, The Progeny, The Legend of Sheba, and Iscariot. Lee’s work has been praised as “deeply human,” “powerful,” and “mind-bending historical fiction.” Learn more at ToscaLee.com.

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.

Baker Publishing Group (Bethany House, Revell, Baker Books, Chosen, Brazos Press, and Baker Academic) is a leading producer of Christian resources that give insight and inspiration to readers worldwide. Our divisions reflect the broadest scope of topics, which includes fiction, self-help, inspiration, professional books, Christian living, and academic titles.

Contact: Anne Van Solkema, (616) 676-9185 x 152, avansolkema@bakerpublishinggroup.com

I’M SO BLESSED DEBUTED AS THE NO. 2 BOOK IN ALL CHRISTIAN BOOKS

NASHVILLE, TN (JUNE 26, 2024) – CAIN’s music has been a mainstay since their debut album in early 2020, and now they add authors to their names with the announcement of the lyrical picture book I’m So Blessed (B&H Publishing).

Based on their hit song, this book is filled with bright and playful illustrations of the three characters Tay-Tay Tangerine, LoLo Lemon, and Maddie Melon as they go through their day singing their favorite truth: “I’m So Blessed.” At the start of the pre-order campaign, the book debuted as the No.1 book in Christian Kids’ books and the No. 2 book in All Christian books in addition to being No. 24 in all Kids’ books and in the Top 100 of all books on Amazon.

“We were so grateful for how much our fans have resonated with our song that we wanted to turn it into something you can hold in your hands and share with the kids in your lives,” shares CAIN on the book’s inspiration. “We first wrote this song back in 2020 when there didn’t seem to be a lot of things to be thankful for. The world was shutting down and seemingly our music career was too. But, even in that tough time, we wanted to proclaim that the truth about God is that He will bless His children in every situation: good and bad.”

Throughout this story, each fruit friend encounters a hard day. In each circumstance, they are reminded that even in frustration and embarrassment, God loves them. It’s not because we have a good day that God’s children are blessed––it’s because He loves His kids every day! This adorable book teaches kids that while it’s okay to be sad when plans are ruined, friends let them down, and embarrassment strikes, God is with His children in every circumstance. If kids have breath in their lungs, they can find joy in God’s blessings and praise Him by singing the fruits’ favorite truth: “I’m so blessed!”

Cain adds, “Our hope is that this book reaches kids everywhere––kids who’ve heard the song and kids who haven’t––with the message that God’s love is good no matter the kind of day they’re having.”

Click here to preorder I’m So Blessed.

Title: I’m So Blessed
Author: CAIN
ISBN: 9781430095835
Format: Book, Hardcover, Printed
B&H Publishing
Suggested Price: $14.99

ABOUT CAIN: CAIN’s music quickly became a mainstay on radio since their debut single, the RIAA Gold® certified “Rise Up (Lazarus),” which was released in early 2020. Raised in Hartselle, Alabama as pastor’s kids and now residing in Nashville, CAIN – Madison Cain Johnson, Taylor Cain Matz, and Logan Cain – got their first break opening for Dave Barnes and Andrew Ripp at a show in 2012. Now more than a decade later, they’ve headlined their tour, as well as touring with Chris Tomlin, Zach Williams, Casting Crowns, TobyMac, the K-LOVE Christmas Tour, and performed on the Grand Ole Opry stage. The group also hosted the 2023 K-LOVE Fan Awards.

They’ve hit No. 1 back-to-back on the radio with their first two singles, “Rise Up (Lazarus)” and “Yes He Can,” both songs from their first full-length album Rise Up. Additionally, their viral single “I’m So Blessed” took over the streaming front, amassing more than 1M streams each week in 2023. Because of its social media popularity, more than 200,000 people have created videos using the music of “I’m So Blessed,” accounting for 300M additional views on social media. To date, they’ve won a K-LOVE Fan Award for Top Breakout Single “Rise Up (Lazarus)” and were nominated for an American Music Award (AMA). CAIN also received multiple nods for the GMA Dove Awards in 2022 for Best New Artist, Pop/Contemporary Album, Best Recorded Music Packaging for Rise Up, and Christmas/Special Event Album for Wonderful.

Their latest project, Jesus Music, was just released in October 2023. On the heels of the album’s release, CAIN debuted their original series “Chasing CAIN” in November exclusively through the TBN app. The limited series shared never-before-seen footage of the group, their rise to where they are today, and how they keep faith and family at the forefront of everything they do. Pouring their joy into their music, CAIN has discovered what it’s like to live their calling while doing their favorite thing – singing about Jesus. CAINTheBand.com

MEDIA CONTACT:  Lori Mahon, Merge PR, lori@mergepr.com

NASHVILLE, Tenn., June 2024—Zondervan Books, an imprint of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, proudly announces the release of a book of never-before-published writings from the late and beloved author Dallas Willard. The Scandal of the Kingdom: How the Parables of Jesus Revolutionize Life with God (9780310367949) is scheduled for release on October 15, 2024.

A respected philosopher and renowned writer, Willard is considered one of the most brilliant Christian thinkers of the past century. Through analysis and application of Jesus’ parables, Willard offers revolutionary insights and practical applications for living with Christ.

“Dallas Willard’s work has consistently challenged Christians to grasp the full breadth of the gospel message, and his insights into Jesus’ parables are no exception,” said Webster Younce, vice president and publisher of Zondervan Books.

“This follow-up to Willard’s classic work, The Divine Conspiracy, provides an illuminating new perspective on Jesus’ most familiar yet often misunderstood teachings. The Scandal of the Kingdom will leave no reader unchanged. Zondervan is proud to publish this landmark book as part of our commitment to sharing thought-provoking Christian literature.”

Drawn from Willard’s unpublished writings and his popular, in-depth teaching series on the parables, The Scandal of the Kingdom will empower readers to embody the radical love, compassion, and justice exemplified in Jesus’ parables. Willard analyzes how these simple stories hold transformative messages for living out the Kingdom of God in our ever-changing world.

“[Jesus’] teaching style provided people the opportunity to take responsibility for opening the door to their heart, seeking the truth and hunting for even more truth,” Willard writes. “Teaching in parables helped him give people a vision of how life in the kingdom of God fit into their everyday, ordinary life.”

The Scandal of the Kingdom demystifies Jesus’ teachings and aligns with Zondervan’s mission to equip the global church with biblical resources that glorify Christ.

For more information or for media inquiries, please contact Rebecca Schriner at rebecca.schriner@harpercollins.com.

Dallas Willard (1935–2013) was a professor at the University of Southern California’s School of Philosophy from 1965 until his retirement in 2012. His groundbreaking books The Divine Conspiracy, The Great Omission, Knowing Christ Today, The Spirit of the Disciplines, Renovation of the Heart, and Hearing God forever changed the way thousands of Christians experience their faith.

Zondervan is a HarperCollins company and part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing. Zondervan is a world leading publisher and provider of Christian communications. The company’s products are sold worldwide and translated into nearly 200 languages. Zondervan offices are located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. For additional information, please visit zondervan.com.

Contact:  Rebecca Schriner, Publicity Manager | Zondervan Books, HarperCollins Christian Publishing | Rebecca.Schriner@HarperCollins.com