Brandon Heath is “the
closest thing there is to a rising superstar in contemporary Christian music
these days.”
Industry Radar for the week of May 4, 2011
Movie
follows 'saintly prostitute': Inspirational movie “The 23rd
Psalm” boasts
“an investigation into the murder of a saintly prostitute.”
Technorati
'Soul
Surfer,' backroom battles: The
creators of "Soul Surfer" had to battle with producers over
several specific moments in the film in order to obtain a wide
theatrical release.
Deseret
News
Church
center includes bookstore: The
new ChristLife Center in downtown Huntsville, Tex., includes a coffee
bar and bookstore.
The
Huntsville Item
David
Wilkerson, movie pioneer: David
Wilkerson, killed in an auto accident, pioneered ministry films like
"The Cross and The Switchblade," originally his own book,
into theaters.
WCTI
TV
Rob
Bell is misunderstood: Rob Bell's “Love Wins” has “been
largely misunderstood.”
The
Baylor Lariat
'Heaven'
reveals 'faith paradox': The
success of “Heaven is For Real” “demonstrates an odd paradox
about the faithful.”
The
Huffington Post
Industry Radar for the week of April 27, 2011.
DeMille
epic 'essential viewing': In the 55 years since it was made, “The
Ten Commandments” has become “essential viewing for both
Christian and Jewish families, especially during religious holidays.”
The
Sudbury Star
Atheist
salutes KJV: Leading atheist Christopher Hitchens argues
that “our language and culture are incomplete without a
400-year-old book—the King James translation of the Bible.
Vanity
Fair
King
James anniversary noted: The
King James Bible is 400 years old this year and “the music of its
sentences is still ringing out.”
The
Economist
Kenny
Rogers' gospel exclusive: Country legend Kenny Rogers' “The
Rock of Your Love,” featuring contemporary Christian songs as well
as gospel classics, is available only at Cracker Barrel.
The
Tennessean
Francesca
Battistelli's musical vision: Francesca Battistelli has “longed
to produce Christian music for those who may never listen to
Christian radio or step into a religious bookstore.”
ABC
News
'Heaven'
book breaks records: “Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy's
Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back” has broken all
sales records for Thomas Nelson.
USA
Today
Dove
Awards winners named: Francesca Battistelli continued her strong
surge as Christian music’s biggest star by taking three 2011 Dove
Awards.
The
Tennessean
Musician
helps Haiti effort: A concert in Shippenberg, Pa., by renowned
Christian singer and songwriter Michael W. Smith will help a local
organization fund the building of a school in Haiti.
Public
Opinion
New
'official; Bibles launch: U.S. Catholics and Protestants alike
are being introduced this Easter season to separate "official"
updated translations of the Bible.
MSNBC
Readers
'fixated' on heaven: Readers are “fixated on a more recent
depiction of life and afterlife, as painted by an 11-year-old boy,”
in ““Heaven is For Real: A Little Boy’s Astounding Story of his
Trip to Heaven and Back.”
The
Couer d'Alene Press
Church
hires movie director: An Elgin,
Ill., megachurch has hired a Hollywood director to make series of
“faith-based movies” for theatrical and DVD release over the
coming years.
The
Courier-News
Ex-publisher
portrays Lewis: A former Christian publisher now portrays C.S.
Lewis in a one-man show.
The
Modesto Bee
Tim
LaHaye's resurrection movie: Author Tim LaHaye is working on “The
Resurrection,” a movie about the ten post-resurrection appearances
of Christ.
The
Wall Street Journal
Ron
Bell 'shakes' orthodoxy: Rob
Bell is “in the midst of shaking the world of American Protestant
orthodoxy to its core — even as he insists he is not sure why.”
The
National Post
Book
spurs father movement: Greg
Vaughn's book, “Letters from Dad,” has inspired a movement of the
same name helping men connect more with their families and loved
ones.
The
(Wilmington, N.C.) Star-News
Latest
KJV helps stores: The
latest edition of the King James Version of the Bible “could be one
of the saviors of the Australian bookshop industry.”
The
Age
'Love
Wins' rebuttal published: The
controversy surrounding “Love Wins” has produced its first book
in response, “Christ Alone: An Evangelical Response to Rob Bell’s
Love Wins” by seminary professor Michael E. Wittmer.
The
Grand Rapids Press
New
store's 'homey' welcome: Robin
Chapman's By The Way Christian Espresso Lounge & Bookstore offers
a “homey, welcoming and warm environment.”
The
(Banning, Calif.) Record Gazette
'Love
Wins' sparks 'firestorm': “Love
Wins” has “ignited a firestorm in the evangelical world.”
ABC
News
'Love
Wins' is 'important': “Love
Wins” is “an important book religiously—and in terms of
American political and cultural life.”
The
Washington Post
Mandisa slims
and sings: Mandisa's new album, What If We Were Real,” reflects
her lifelong battle with her weight.
The Tennessean
Industry Radar for the week of April 20, 2011.
Thomas
Nelson's Titanic history: Rock journalist Steve Turner turns his
attention to one of the world's most spectacular and memorable
tragedies, the sinking of the Titanic, in Thomas Nelson's new “The
Band That Played On.”
USA Today
Couple
starts 'ministry' bookstore: When
David and Amy Tucker decided to open All About Love Christian
bookstore in Wentzville, Mo., “they knew they were starting a
ministry as much as a business.”
The Wentzville Patch
'Soul
Surfer' pleases Christians: Evangelical
Christians have been waiting for a movie like “Soul
Surfer” “the
way a surfer waits in the swells for The Big One.”
The Toledo Blade
'Soul
Surfer' sparks debate: The question of how to show the
Hamilton family's religion in the film, “Soul Surfer,” “caused
huge debate on set.”
CNN
Follow-up
for 'Potatoes' film: Filming has started on “Ordinary People,”
a follow-up to “ Faith Like Potatoes,” the story of African
evangelist Angus Buchan.
Screen Africa
'Lame'
faith-based movies: As "Soul Surfer" demonstrates,
faith-based movies are a boom industry, a mainstream journalist notes
before asking: “Do they have to be so lame?”
Salon
Jakes unveils new
movie: T.D. Jakes' new "Jumping the
Broom" is the story of two African-American families from
different socioeconomic backgrounds coming together one weekend in
Martha's Vineyard for a wedding.
The A&T Register
Rob Bell, 'Time'
cover: Rob Bell's “slim, lively book has
ignited a new holy war in Christian circles and beyond.”
TIME
Author discusses
'Love Wins': Rob Bell discusses “Love Wins” on American
Morning.
CNN
'Soul Surfer'
thumbs-up: “Soul Surfer” “rides the waves of 'real'
Christian films.”
The Houston
Chronicle
Seeking
faith-based film-goers: “Soul
Surfer' is the latest movie to try and capture the faith-based movie
market.
The Tennessean
C.S.
Lewis Bible dispute: A
newly published Bible bearing his name has excited fans and provoked
debate over whether C.S. Lewis would have approved.
The Los Angeles
Times
New Nelson leader
speaks: New Nelson chief Mark Schoenwald says research suggests
Christian reader are slower to adopt e-book readers than others.
The Tennessean
Actress hosts
Dove Awards: Actress and TV host Sherri Shepherd is “a perfect
fit” for hosting the Gospel Music Association's annual Dove Awards.
The San Antonio
Express-News
Detective
overcomes writing challenges: Mark Mynheir's detective thrillers
“may be inspirational in the spiritual sense, but they also offer
inspiration for anyone who's ever wanted to write.”
Florida Today
'Weird' Christian
movies: A look at “the weird world of straight-to-DVD Christian
film.”
Salon
Industry Radar for the week of April 13, 2011.
Singer's
'soulful' movie debut: Singer Carrie Underwood discusses her
acting debut in inspirational biopic, “Soul Surfer.”
USA
Today
Top
ghostwriter profiled: Best known for helping others tell their
faith stories, leading co-author Lynn Vincent's own life has taken
some dramatic turns.
The
San Diego Union Tribune
Rob
Bell 'not the devil': Rob Bell "is not the devil people are
making him out to be,” says a critic of “Love Wins.”
The
Tennessean
Store
goes online-only: Crossroads
is “not going away, we’re going virtual,” says owner Murray
Zetterholm of the closure of the store in Ann Arbor, Mich., in favor
of an online operation.
AnnArbor.com
Bible
exhibition in Oklahoma: The Oklahoma City Museum of Art will be
the first stop for a worldwide traveling exhibition of historic
biblical texts and artifacts collected the Green family behind Hobby
Lobby and Mardel Christian & Education chains.
The
Oklahoman
Bible
collection contains treasures: The Green family's massive
collection of biblical manuscripts and texts includes many items yet
to be studied in detail.
The
Oklahoman
Scott
Krippayne top songwriter: Scott
Krippayne’s “What Faith Can Do,” recorded by Christian
rockers Kutless,
named
Christian song of the year for 2010.
The
Tennessean
Chocolate
Easter Lambs spread: Joel
and Sally Moylan's Why the Lamb Easter chocolates are selling well in
Christian bookstores, churches and other stores.
The
Lynchburg News & Advance
Film
subject's 'beautiful thing': Surfer
Bethany Hamilton says that the shark attack the sparked the biopic,
“Soul Surfer, “has turned into a beautiful thing.”
The
New York Times
Derek
Webb offers 'Feedback': Derek Webb's new release, “Feedback,”
is an instrumental electronic album based on the Lord’s prayer that
pairs the music with companion pieces of art.
The
Tennessean
Georgia
stores doubles space: Christian
Art and Books has doubled its space with a moved into downtown
Monroe, Ga.
The
Walton Tribune
'Soul
Surfer,' so-so: “Soul
Surfer” “contains enough platitudes to stock a Hallmark shop.”
The
Washington Post
Surf
movie's 'few waves: “Soul Surfer” “makes very few waves.”
USA
Today
'Soul
Surfer' a 'champ': From
the production values to the “savvy delivery of its Christian
message, 'Soul Surfer' a champ.”
The
Oklahoman
'Soul
Surfer' not preachy: “Soul
Surfer” “manages to avoid the preachiness found in many Christian
films.”
The
Gazette
Nicholson
in 'Soul Surfer': Actor Jack Nicholson's daughter, Lorraine, has
her first major supporting role in “Soul Surfer.”
NBC
Film's
faith message defended: Singer Carrie Underwood supportesd the
faith message of “Soul Surfer,” in which she makes her acting
debut.
The
Deseret News
'Soul
Surfer' is underwhelming: An inspiring true-life story “gets a
less-than-inspired film dramatization.”
The
Hollywood Reporter
Biopic's
open faith: It's rare for
a Hollywood production like “Soul Surfer” to “so openly embrace
any faith for fear of offending potential audience members who might
believe differently.”
The
Los Angeles Times
'Soul
Surfer' 'heartfelt': While
“formulaic in design, 'Soul Surfer' is an authentic and heartfelt
movie.”
Entertainment
Weekly
Best
faith film ever: “Soul
Surfer” is “the best faith-based film ever made... uplifting,
entertaining and wonderfully-acted.”
The
Orlando Sentinel
'Soul
Surfer' undermines itself: “'Soul Surfer' can't
help patting itself on the back at key moments, undermining its own
impact. “
The
Huffington Post
'Soul
Surfer' is kind-hearted: “Soul Surfer” is a
kind-hearted coming-of-age drama with killer waves.”
Variety
Bethany Hamilton, comeback queen:
Bethany Hamilton is “the ultimate comeback kid.”
Parade
Industry Radar for the week of April 7, 2011.
Meet
the big box challenge: How a small Christian chain in Canada has
responded to the challenge of other channels selling Christian
products.
The
Globe and Mail
Faith-based
music guide: Noting the growth of Christian artists with a
mainstream appeal and secular artists with a faith-based background
who “comprise a comprehensive collection of artists whose music
transcends secular/Christian boundaries.”
The
Pepperdine Graphic
'Big
tent' sexuality views: Author Jonathan Merritt reflects on the
move among young evangelicals towards a “big-tent
approach to sexuality.”
The
Christian Science Monitor
Advice
for Charlie Sheen: Author Margaret Feinberg pens an open letter
of concern to troubled TV star Charlie Sheen.
CNN
Artist's
illustrated gospels: Artist Makoto Fujimura speaks about
illuminated English Standard Version of "The Four Holy Gospels,”
published by Crossway.
The
Tampa Bay Tribune
Rob
Bell defends 'Love Wins': Rob Bell defends his decision to write
“Love Wins.”
The
Huffington Post
Bell
offers 'fresh air': For
some readers, “Love Wins” “has been a breath of fresh air and a
chance to discuss ideas that have long been taboo in evangelical
circles.”
Associated
Press
Christian
songwriter of 2010: Dan Muckala named Christian songwriter
of the year for his work on three of the most performed songs of
2010--“All of Creation,” “Beautiful” and “Light Up the
Sky.”
The
Tennessean
Rob
Bell wonders about critics: Rob Bell “wonders
why his critics bristle at the idea of making the gospel more
popular.”
The
Detroit Free Press
Finding
hope in Hollywood: A
filmmaker “who tells stories of redemption and faith,” Lee
Stanley recounts his life in Hollywood in “Faith in the Land of
Make-Believe.”
CNN
Baseball
biographer on Pujols: Co-author
Tim Ellsworth talks about “Pujols: More than the Game,” the
biography of St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Albert Pujols.
The
Benton Evening News
Major
biblical manuscript collection: The
Green family—owners of Hobby Lobby and Mardel Christian &
Education--has amassed the world's largest collection of ancient
biblical manuscripts and texts, including the 1782 Aitken Bible
authorized by Congress.
USA
Today
Industry Radar for the week of April 4, 2011.
From
pizzas to publishing: Pizza franchise owner Ta’ Mara Hanscom
and her husband started their own company to publish her Caselli
Family Series of Christian novels.
The
Sioux City Journal
The
legacy of Lewis: With “the possible exception of Jesus and the
apostle Paul,” no man's name appears more in popular evangelical
nonfiction than C.S Lewis.
The
Huffington Post
Faith-based
fashion: Jesus Couture is a growing apparel company “that
combines modern style with Christian quotes and imagery.”
Richmond
BizSense
Mark
Schultz goes instrumental: On his latest tour, Mark Schultz
debuts several
pieces from his instrumental project, "Renaissance,"
recorded in Italy this year.
The
Charlotte Observer
Updated
NIV print run: Demand
for the updated New International Version prompted Zondervan to
increase its original print run of 1.4 million copies to 1.9 million.
The
New American
Rob
Bell 'worn out': Rob Bell is 'a bit worn out by trying to reduce
the complexities of his book and faith into tube-friendly sound
bites.”
The
Grand Rapids Press
Rob
Bell, 'loose cannon': Rob Bell, “the megachurch hip Christian
with the cool glasses, video portfolio and huge youth following is a
dangerous loose cannon to many of his peers.”
USA
Today
Francesca
Battistelli, rising star: Francesca
Battistelli is the best-selling new Christian music act to come along
in the past eight years.
USA
Today
New
packaging for NIV: Zondervan
hired an award-winning design firm to help package the updated New
International Version, with shop-alongs with consumers and home
interviews.
The
Grand Rapids Press
Stryper
covers rock classics: Christian metal pioneers Stryper didn't
exactly make a deal with the devil for its latest album, “but it
probably comes pretty close in some people's books.”
The
Houston Chronicle
Jars
of Clay's mission: Christian rock band Jars of Clay “is clear
about its intentions when it comes to Blood:Water Mission in Africa.”
The
San Gabriel Valley Tribune
Memorial
run DVD release: A fall DVD release is planned for “My
Run," the documentary about Terry Hitchcock's Twin
Cities-Atlanta marathon in honor of his wife, who died of breast
cancer.
The
Evanston Review
Jeremy
Camp's impact: Singer
Jeremy Camp has funneled personal pain into songs like "I Still
Believe" that have garnered him three gold albums and more than
3 million records sold.
The
Corpus Christi Caller Times
Industry Radar for the week of March 23, 2011.
New
Bibles for Lent: As many Christians begin observing Lent,
American publishers release new translations of two of the most
widely read English language Bibles.
The
Washington Post
The
Christian store challenge: The challenge facing Christian
retailers is “that their existence relies on finding a way to
balance their long-held principles with their customers' modern-day
mores and desire for convenience.”
The
Detroit News
Miracle
DVD sells well: “Finger
of God,” an independent Christian documentary about miracles, has
sold more than 70,000 copies since it was released in 2007.
The
Courier-News
Businessmen
host faith movie: Christian businessmen in Dalton, Ga., host
screenings of inspirational true-life drama, “The Way Home.”
The
Daily Citizen
Rob
Bell's Zondervan split: Rob Bell's split from Zondervan came in
part over his controversial new book, “Love Wins.”
CNN
'Love
Wins' release revised: HarperOne brings forward the release of
Rob Bell's book, “Love Wins.”
Grand
Rapids Press
CBD
warehouse evacuated: A suspicious package prompts an evacuation
at Christian Book Distributors.
The
Boston Globe
Distributor's
bomb squad alert: A
UPS shipping error led to the evacuation of about 500 employees at
Christian Book Distributors while a state police bomb squad
investigated.
The
Salem News
'Sleeper
hit' profiled: “Heaven
Is for Real” has become a sleeper paperback hit of the winter.
The
New York Times
Updated
NIV's digital success: Zondervan's updated New International
Version Bible just hit store shelves, but it is already a digital
bestseller.
Grand
Rapids Press
Charles
Colson's 'ambitious effort': Author
and Christian leader Charles Colson has launched “an
ambitious effort... to replicate his spiritual DNA and ensure that
his vision of Christianity doesn’t die when he does.”
The
Washington Post
Theater
visit for heaven author: “Heaven
is for Real” co-author Todd Burpo followed a bookstore signing with
a personal appearance to a full house at a local theater.
The
McCook Daily Gazette
Rob
Bell’s TV grilling: Interviewer Martin Bashir challenges Rob
Bell on the claims of “Love Wins.”
'Jesus
can handle controversy': Rob Bell says that “Jesus can handle”
the debate sparked by his new book.
ABC
“Mom-and-pops'
champion: Harry Daud, owner of Majesty Bible & Gifts in
Roseville, Calif., is convinced the “mom-n-pop” retail concept is
still alive.
The
Roseville Press Tribune
Industry Radar for the week of March 16, 2011.
Amy
Grant shrugs fame: Amy Grant, owner of a Hollywood star and six
Grammys, nicknamed the Queen of Christian Pop, “shrugs off fame
like an uncomfortable coat.”
The
Sun Chronicle
Rob
Bell book anticipated: Christian
bookstores are preparing for a rush of buyers eager to snap up Rob
Bell’s newest release “Love Wins.” One store has ordered almost
500 copies to meet the expected demand.
The
Grand Rapids Press
The
legacy of Lewis: C. S. Lewis has “moved more hearts with a pen
than others have with armies.”
The
New York Times
Bell
book challenges tradition: Rob Bell's new new book, challenging
traditional Christian views of heaven, hell and eternal damnation,
has “created an uproar among evangelical leaders.”
The
New York Times
Political
memoir 'pretty good': Governor Tim Pawlenty's political memoir,
“Courage to Stand,” is “pretty
good by the dismal standards of the genre.”
National
Review
'Slave'
book concerns some: John MacArthur's latest book,“Slave:
The Hidden Truth About Your Identity in Christ,” is drawing mixed
reactions among African-American Christians whose ancestors were
slaves.
The
Kansas City Star
Six
billion KJV sales: Total sales of the King James Version of the
Bible are an estimated six
billion.
The
Irish Independent
Recycling
donated Christian literature: Sometimes nicknamed “God’s
Recycler,” Steven Schmidt helps ship 20 tons of donated Christian
literature a week overseas through Love Packages.
The
State Journal-Register
Heavenly
visit for anniversary: A McCook, Neb., bookstore marks its
one-year anniversary with a visit from Todd Burpo, best-selling
co-author of “Heaven is for Real.”
The
McCook daily Gazette
'Feel
good' faith books: Modern
evangelicalism is “judge by many of its books and star preachers...
mostly about bringing people to Christ and then, when they’ve
arrived, making them feel good about the decision.”
The
New York Review of Books
First
Christian bookstore app: A Christian bookstore in Northern
Ireland becomes the first in the world to launch its own iPhone app
to sell books.
The
Belfast Telegraph
'Soul
Surfer' subject pleased: Bethany
Hamilton says that she is happy with “Soul Surfer,” the
inspirational biopic about her life starring Dennis Quaid, Helen Hunt
and Carrie Underwood.
Florida
Today
Author
sees 'empty' value: Author
Kathleen Norris believes that “we may be most available to God when
we're empty.”
The
Missourian
Industry Radar for the week of March 9, 2011.
Faith
films 'crossing over': “The Grace Card” is “the
latest in a series of faith-based films attempting to cross over to
mainstream audiences, with limited theatrical releases across the
country.”
The
News & Observer
Former
lawyer's case for faith: A
one-time Brooklyn lawyer who happens to be an Orthodox Jew has
discovered a new publishing niche: creating religious-themed
children's books and bible trading cards—which sell like hotcakes
in Christian bookstores.
Crain's
New York Business
Synagogue
becomes Christian bookstore: A
167-year-old former synagogue in downtown Massena, N.Y., will be
resurrected this spring as a Christian-themed coffee shop and
bookstore.
The
Watertown Daily Times
Digital
books grow for Baker: The
digital migration to e-readers accounts for approximately 6% of
monthly sales for Baker Publishing Group, which saw “steady
increases” in 2010
USA
Business Review
Pastor
discusses new book: Pastor
Frank G. Honeycutt discusses his latest book “The Truth Shall Make
You Odd: Speaking with Pastoral Integrity in Awkward Situations.”
The
State
Critic
slams 'artless' movie: A critic argues that as “a sermon
masquerading as a movie, 'The Grace Card' is simple, sincere and
artless.”
The
Boston Herald
Churches
making more movies: More
and more local churches say they are frustrated with the movies
Hollywood has been putting out, so they are making their own.
PBS
'Christian
film is growing': Just like Christian rock has been growing
throughout the years and enjoys a scene paralleling mainstream rock,
Christian film is growing as well.
The
San Antonio Current
'Christian
bookstores must change': If Christian bookstores want to stay
around, “they’re going to have to become relevant to young
people.”
Faith
Forward
Rob
Bell book 'firestorm': Rob Bell' latest book has “ignited
a firestorm of controversy... weeks before it arrives in
bookstores.”
CNN
Heaven
book sells well: Family
Christian Store in Fultondale, Ala., has sold out of “Heaven is For
Real” several times.
WHNT
TV
'Grace
Card' 'startlingly good': “The
Grace Card” is “a
startlingly good first effort.”
The
Huffington Post
Bell
book prompts debate: Almost
overnight, the “online evangelical community... erupted into a
full-blown debate over doctrines” related to heaven, hell,
religious pluralism, justice, mercy and atonement, prompted by
comments about Rob Bell's forthcoming book.
The
Washington Post
Christian
musicians discuss drugs: Michael
W. Smith and former Korn member Brian “Head” Welch shared the
airwaves to talk about musicians overcoming drugs through a focus on
religion.
The
Tennessean
Industry Radar for the week of March 2, 2011.
'Blind
Side' subject speaks: Michael Oher, whose life story was featured
in best-selling movie, “The Blind Side,” tells his own version in
“I Beat the Odds: From
Homelessness to The Blind Side and Beyond.”
The
Tennessean
'Grace
Card' 'finds audience': "The Grace Card" is "finding
an audience among folks who are interested in social-justice issues,
no matter where they are on their faith journey.”
The
Commercial Appeal
LifeWay
drops reading caution: LifeWay Christian Stores drops its “read
with discernment” advisory label carried on some books.
The
Orlando Sentinel
Justin
Bieber, faith market: The teen singer documentary, “Justin
Bieber: Never Say Never,” has been screened for pastors across the
country--”a page torn from the 'Passion of the Christ' marketing
playbook.”
The
St. Louis Post-Dispatch
Church
film 'not shabby': Inspirational movie, “The Grace Card, “isn’t
too shabby, especially when you consider that it was made on a
bargain-basement budget by members of a Memphis church.”
The
Kansas City Star
Novelist
tackles divorce pain: Novelist
Denise Hildreth Jones has “dipped a toe into the non-fiction world”
with a “soul-searching book,” “Flying Solo: A Journey of
Divorce, Healing and a Very Present God.”
The
Tennessean
Andrew
Peterson's biggest helper: Singer Andrew Peterson says that C.S.
Lewis “more than any other
person, has helped me love Jesus.”
The
Kentucky Kernel
Near-death
movie adaptation: There is talk of a movie of "Heaven is for
Real,” which tells of 4-year-old Colton Burpo's account of visiting
heaven.
KDVR
TV
Comedian
turns movie cop: Comedian Michael Joiner plays the lead in “The
Grace Card,” a gritty cop drama that filmed last year in Memphis,
Tenn.
The
Examiner
'Big
year for faith films': For movie fans, “this year looks to be a
good one for faith-based films.”
National
Catholic Register
Country
star's inspirational role: Country
singer Carrie Underwood has
a starring role in “Soul Surfer,” a film about a teenage surfer
who finds the courage to get back into the ocean after having her arm
bitten off by a shark.
The
Daily Mail
'Grace
Card' thumbs-up: A
reviewer's reaction to “The Grace Card” is n
to “The Grace Card” is “one of pleasant surprise at its
competence.”
The
New York Times
Store
closure saddens owner: Tearful Kathy Dunn talks about the closure
of her The Door store in San Carlos, Calif.
San
Carlos Patch
'Grace
Card' feels 'churchy': Originally
a church Passion play, “The Grace Card” “still feels like a
church production.”
The
Houston Chronicle
Jason
Ingram, best songwriter: Jason
Ingram earned Christian songwriter of the year honors at SESAC’s
Christian Music Awards, in Nashville.
The
Tennessean
'Grace
Card' makers 'timid': The
makers of “The Grace Card” are “too timid to play the cards
they dealt themselves.”
The
Tennessean
Industry Radar for the week of February 23, 2011.
Oscar
winner support 'Genesis': New Christian movie, “The Genesis
Code,” includes
appearances by Academy Award winners Ernest Borgnine and Louise
Fletcher.
The
Peoria Star Journal
'Soul
Surfer' content dispute: A dispute about overt Christian content
in new surfer biopic, “Soul Surfer," “illuminates
Hollywood's increasingly awkward dance with the faith-based
community.”
Reuters
Pastor
launches publishing house: After
careers as a church pastor, businessman and Zondervan book marketer,
Greg Smith has funneled his talents into the virtual publishing
company Black Lake Press.
The
Grand Rapids Press
God's
techno 'Message': Inspirational
film, "The Message," is a drama in which God uses
technology to bring a lost soul back to faith.
The
Tampa Tribune
Zondervan
head 'didn't fit': President and CEO Moe Girkins’ leadership at
Zondervan “apparently wasn’t a good fit.”
The
Grand Rapids Press
Building
429 leader's confidence: Building
429 singer Jason Roy is “more confident than I have ever been in my
life when it comes to my calling, when it comes to my brothers, when
it comes to my band,"
The
Herald
Honoring
2010's godly movies: The
Movieguide Faith and Values Awards honored 2010 movies that promoted
Judeo-Christian ethics, with top prizes going to “The
Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader,” “Toy
Story 3”
and “Secretariat.”
The
Hollywood Reporter
The
most 'Jesusy' films: Among
“the most Jesus-y movies of the past year” was “ The
Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader.”
New
York magazine
Store
hosts immigration authors: Stepping
Stones Christian Bookstore in Marshalltown, Iowa, hosts the authors
of a book about how several immigrants overcome many obstacles on
their way to getting settled in anew home and life.
The
Times-Republican
Spiritual
bookstores 'soldiering on': A
number of “smaller, spiritual bookstores” in Santa Cruz, Calif.,
“are soldiering one, faithful companions to legions of readers.”
The
Santa Cruz Sentinel
KJV
anniversary's message: The
400th anniversary of the King James Bible “reminds us of the
importance of the Scripture in the vernacular.”
The
Winnipeg Free Press
'Job'
hits big screen: Interlake
Christian Films' first feature, “Where is my Father?,” based on
the biblical story of Job, is available on DVD.
The
Central Plains Herald-Leader
Brandon
Heath's hope: Brandon Heath talks about finding hope in a
troubled world.
The
Wall Street Journal
Timothy
Keller's new book: “The Reason for God” author Timothy Keller
discusses his new book and why he waited so long to become a writer.
The
Atlantic
Long-time
store closes: The
Rook Good Book Store, long-time fixture in downtown Hays, Kan., is
going out of business.
The
Hays Daily News
Grant
and Smith reminisce: Out on tour together, Michael W. Smith and
Amy Grant “reflect on their musical chemistry.”
The
Tennessean
Industry Radar for the week of February 16, 2011.
Why
Wal-Mart's a threat: Why Wal-Mart has “become
a business threat to Christian booksellers.”
CNN
'Multi-faceted'
store profile: Bonnie Hole has molded the Family Book Nook in
Medicine Hat, Alberta, into “a multi-faceted retail outlet.”
Medicine
Hat News
Over
the Rhine's music: Over the Rhine is the musical partnership of
husband and wife Linford Detweiler and Karin Bergquist.
NPR
Bieber's
'faith on display': Teen
singing star Justin Bieber's “faith is on display” in the new 3-D
concert film/documentary, “Justin Bieber: Never Say Never.”
USA
Today
Pastor's
marriage guidance book: Having performed more than 2,000
weddings, pastor James Lee Collins has written marriage guide,
“Always a Wedding: Beginning, Renewing and Rescuing Marriage.”
Atlanta
Constitution-Journal
Christian
books 'pretty strong': Where the basic book publishing business
in general has been hurting, “the Christian segment has been pretty
strong.”
The
San Fernando Valley Business Journal
Christian music's largest tour: With
nearly a dozen acts, WinterJam has been called Christian music's
largest tour.
The
Tulsa World
Pope's
breakfast book: Susan Vigilantes' book about breakfast with the
Pope is for “people
who get mad, who feel cheated, who are sick of being told it's all a
blessing in the end--to know they're not alone.”
The
Clarion Ledger
Simple Jesus: Best-selling
author Lysa TerKeurst is “just
'a simple Jesus girl.'”
The
Charlotte Observer
Looking
at Bible trends: "The
Rise and Fall of the Bible" explores the world of Bibles created
for specific subcultures and needs: “the manly Metal Bible and Duct
Tape Bible, kicky handbag/Bible combos and special editions geared
toward teenagers, African-American women and so on.”
Salon
Father-son's
cancer book: Children's
author Jeff Yosick teamed with his father, Jim, for “Fear
Not, For I Am With You," after the older man overcame kidney
cancer.
The
Mansfield News Journal
Christian/country
song writer: Songwriter
Don Poythress' work has been recorded by country stars like Trisha
Yearwood, Blake Shelton and Jake Owen, and such Christian artists as
Jaci Velasquez, Guy Penrod and former Backstreet Boy Brian Littrell.
American
Songwriter
Industry Radar for the week of February 9, 2011.
Iowa
store, 'God here': “God
is here,” says the English translation of Liberia Yahwen Shama, or
Bookstore Yahwen Shama, a Christian bookstore in West Liberty, Iowa.
West
Liberty Index
Brandon
Heath's online vice: Brandon
Heath: “My vice is the news — I’m a news junkie — or I would
maybe say the Internet. When anything is wrong, I don’t go to God,
I go to Google.”
The
Tennessean
Winter
Jam tour: "There's
not many tours that can compare to the sheer magnitude of Winter
Jam," says James Mead, guitarist for Kutless.
The
Augusta Chronicle
'Grizzly
Adams' filmmaker dies: Charles
Sellier, producer of Christian films and creator of the book and
television series "The Life and Time of Grizzly Adams," has
died, aged 67.
Associated
Press
GMA
founder dies: Gospel Music Association founder Don Butler has
died
at age 80.
The
Tennessean
Winans
on faith and family: Faith
and family factor in heavily to the outlook and craft of siblings and
gospel superstars BeBe and CeCe Winans
The
Tennessean
Long-time
store closes down: Long's Christian Bookstore in Rancho
Cucamonga, Calif., is closing its doors after 26 years.
The
Contra Costa Times
Inspirational
memoir recalls tragedy: Dorothy Lewis' inspirational memoir,
'Unbroken,' tells of her overcoming her rape, attempted murder and
the killing of her two daughters.
The
Orlando Sentinel
Christian
author book signing: Christian author Susan Pohlman is invited
to a Columbus ,Ohio bookstore that “doesn't book many
Christian-themed authors... but thought Pohlman and her story would
have popular appeal.”
The
Columbus Dispatch
Book
affirms marriage: Susan Pohlman hopes her book, “Halfway to
Each Other,” gives readers “a
renewed appreciation of family and marriage.”
The
Dayton Daily News
Enhanced
'Purpose-Driven Life': Zondervan
has announced an enhanced e-book version of its bestseller, “The
Purpose Driven Life.”
The
Grand Rapids Press
'Frustration'
births pastor's book: Pastor Randy Dean's 'Radiance” (Destiny
Image) “came
out of a fair amount of frustration with American Christianity,”
The
River Falls Journal
Conference
on 'Christian slavery': Black
and white churches gather to discuss the concept of Christian slavery
discussed by author John McArthur in
his new book.
Associated
Press
Anti-porn
pastor speaks: An interview with author, pastor and anti-porn
campaigner Craig Gross.
Salon
Industry Radar for the week of February 2, 2011.
Joel
Osteen returns: Best-selling Christian author and televangelist
Joel Osteen has returned to the publisher with whom he scored
blockbuster success with his first book.
The
Tennessean
Author
on 'gay divide': Author
Andrew Marin says the Grand Canyon-sized divide between a handful of
his openly gay friends, and the church, is what motivated him to
write a book.
News5
TV
Gospel
music greats remembered: The late Johnny Cash and Dana Key
remembered among those inducted
into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame.
The
Tennessean
Family
Christian outlet evacuated: Family Christian Store in
Springfield, Ill., was one of three businesses evacuated when police
were called in to examine a suspicious package left in the store.
The
State Journal-Register
Store
damaged by motorist: A woman with plans to purchase a Bible was cited
by police after running her car through the windows of The Light
Christian Bookstore in Greenville, N.C.
The
Daily Reflector
U.K.
celebrates KJV 400: More
than 70 events are scheduled in Britain this year to celebrate the
400th anniversary of the King James Bible.
The
Seattle Times
'Thoughtful'
books' thumbs-up: A
review of Mark Batterson's “thoughtful” new book, “Soulprint:
Discovering Your Divine Destiny.”
The
Morung Express
Former
teacher starts store: Newly-opened
His Inspirations Christian store in Fallon., Nev., is owned by former
teacher Wendy Hucke Hook.
The
Lahontan Valley News
Philip
Yancey's gay 'heat': Author
Philip Yancey has "taken an incredible amount of heat" for
speaking at the conference of the Gay Christian Network.
The
Vancouver Sun
Red
rockers cross boundaries: Hard rock
band Red
can “cross boundaries that other Christian artists aren’t able
to.”
The
Tennessean
Industry Radar for the week of January 26, 2011.
Jay
Bakker's 'grace' book: Jay
Bakker discusses his new book, “Fall to Grace.”
The
Huffington Post
Looking
into Borders' troubles: An analysis of the troubled Borders
bookstore chain.
The
Washington Post
Band
has Family signing: Local group The Nathan Sun band sign copies
of their CD at a Family Christian Bookstore, with local radio
broadcasting live.
The
(Lafayette, La.) Advertiser
'Oasis
of peace' store: George and Ruth
O'Carroll's
Body and Soul in Jamesburg, N.J., is “as much of an oasis of peace
in their community as a retail outlet.”
The Courier Herald
Mardel
supports fund-raising effort: At
Mardel Christian bookstore artist Debra Scott used her voice to raise
money to help a young man in need of a new heart.
KIII
TV
Gunpoint
robbery at store: Police
in Yukon, Okla., are hunting a man who robbed Christian Connections
Book Store at gunpoint.
News9
TV
Heretic
or fresh voice?: To some,
author and activist Brian McLaren “is a heretic... to others, he is
a fresh and welcome voice...”
Winnipeg
Free
Press
Fasting
book in NYT: Stovall
Weems, pastor and author of “Awakening” and an avid weightlifter,
“talks about fasting as if it were an extreme sport.”
The
New York Times
Zondervan
tests Bible 'novelization': Zondervan
is running an eight-month test study for a project “taking one of
the oldest books in the world and delivering like a novel.”
KAIT
TV
Jay
Bakker on 'dangerous' religion: Jay
Bakker, author of “Fall to Grace, says that “religion can be a
very dangerous thing.”
NPR
Son's
Tammy Faye tribute: Jay Bakker dedicates
his new book to his mother, Christian TV host Tammy Faye, who ho died
in 2007.
The Charlotte Observer
Faith
'flag' film releases: Faith-based movie, “Flag of My Father,”
starring William
Devane, is due out on DVD soon.
The
(Monroe, La.) News-Star
Oscar
help for movie: Oscar-winning
actor Louis Gossett Jr. has a guest role in “The Grace Card,” a
new inspirational film coming to theaters. .
The
Jackson Sun
'Perfect
read' is recommended: Kurt
Senske's new book, "The Calling: Live a Life of Significance,"
is “the perfect read for the new year.”
The
Austin Statesman
Publisher
supported MLK's mission: One
of Nashville’s oldest publishing companies also played a supporting
role in the life of Martin Luther King, Jr.
Nashville
Public Radio
Hip-hop
movie coming: An inspirational film set in the world of hip-hop
get a preview screening at the Stellar Awards.
The
St. Louis Post-Dispatch
Clothing Meets Ministry: C28 is a Christian clothing store and a ministry.
Scripps News
Industry Radar for the week of January 19, 2011.
Long-time
store closes: A
Pentecostal minister who's run Christian book stores for 35 years
says he's shutting down because he can longer compete with the
Internet and the big box retailers.
Fox
6 TV
'Leap of faith'
opening: Opening Hallelujah House Café and bookstore in
Lowville, N.Y., was “a true leap of faith.”
The
Watertown Daily News
King
James Version tribute: Without
the King James Bible, “the culture of the English-speaking world
would have been immeasurably impoverished.”
The
Daily Sentinel
Co-author
on actress' book: Darlene Schacht discusses co-writing “Reshaping
It All” with former actor Candace Cameron Bure.
The
Winnipeg Free Press
New
store fills void: The new Christian Armory in Springfield,
Ohio, fills a void that Logos Christian Bookstore left when it closed
in 2007.
The
Springfield News-Sun
Layoffs
at Group Publishing: Group
Publishing has laid off 26 employees, nearly 9% of the staff.
The
(Loveland. Colo.) Reporter-Herald
Crowd
for Pawlenty signing: Former
Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty's first book signing event in his
home state drew a crowd of supporters to a Christian bookstore in
Woodbury.
KARE
TV
Industry Radar for the week of January 6, 2011.
Five
Iron Frenzy reflections: Former Five Iron Frenzy singer Reese
Roper reflects on the band's time in the Christian music world.
Denver
Westworld
Biographer
discusses 'Bonhoeffer' book: Eric Metaxas discusses his acclaimed
biography, “Bonhoeffer.”
Harper's
Christian
worldview production company: Reload is a new production company
that aims to make movies, television shows and mobile phone apps from
a Christian worldview.
The
Jackson Sun
Author's
new 'Christmas classic': While she hasn't achieved Charles
Dickens-like status yet, Denise George has “penned a Christmas
classic.”
The
Birmingham News
New
comic book hero: Captain Salvation is the star of a new Christian
comic book created by a one-time youth minister.
The
News & Observer
Marking
the KJV 400th: It's
estimated that a billion copies of the King James Version of the
Bible have been printed since the first volume rolled off the press
in 1611.
The
Washington Times
'Christian
Retailing' publisher profiled: “Christian Retailing” owner
and “Charisma” publisher Steve Strang profiled.
The
Orlando Sentinel
Encouraging
more Bible reading: With
"Read the Bible for Life,” George Guthrie
hopes to change the way people read the Bible.
The
Jackson Sun
California
store's new location: Otis
and Penni Sanders have moved their Nu Revelations
Christian bookstore in Hayward, Calif., to a new location after 23
years.
The
Oakland Tribune
Author
addresses Canadian conference: Paul
Coughlin speaks at a Canadian conference about the message of his
book, “No More Christian Nice Guy.”
The
Calgary Herald
Pastor's
family book project: What started as a fun family project for
pastor Steve Rauch is now a published book, “"I Know An Old
Fellow Who Swallowed a Cave.”
The
Lancaster Eagle Gazette
Canadian
musician changes tack: Award-winning Canadian musician Steve Bell
has developed a new business model.
The
Globe and Mail
Updated
NIV goes digital: The
North American publisher of the revised New International Version “is
placing the Christmas story in a digital manger first.”
The
Grand Rapids Press
Sex
trafficking book challenge: Kimberly
Smith hopes her book about combating sex trafficking, “helps give
people the courage to risk finding out what God wants to do in their
lives.”
The
Birmingham News
Industry Radar for the week of Decemeber 29, 2010.
Fiction
'takes you forward': Novelist Penny McCowen says Christian
fiction “takes
you somewhere, and shows that God can meet you there and take you
forward.”
The
Glen Innes (Australia) Examiner
Ex-President's
book signing: Former president George W. Bush and his wife, Laura
Bush, make a book-signing stop at Ruth's Attic Bookstore at the Billy
Graham Library in Charlotte, N.C.
Politics
Daily
Industry
'soul searching': The Christian retail industry is “in
a state of soul-searching.”
The
Washington Post
Young
Christians' consumer habits: Brett
McCracken, author of “Hipster
Christianity: When Church and Cool Collide,” reflects on how young
Christians' gift-buying choices are changing.
The
Washington Post
Why
Francis Chan 'walked': Why pastor and author Francis Chan “walked
away at the peak of his professional career.”
CNN
Industry Radar for the week of Decemeber 22, 2010.
Jars'
filled with water: Jars
of Clay has met its goal of providing clean water to 1,000 African
communities through the organization it founded, Blood:Water Mission,
and its 1,000 Wells Project.
The
Tennessean
Another
'Blind Side' movie: Forthcoming
movie, “One Heart,” tells how a family took in a troubled
16-year-old, similar to the story of “The Blind Side”.
The
Cross Timbers Gazette
Books
A Million's foundations: The Books A Million chain started out as
a Christian bookstore.
The
Chicago Tribune
Focused
on fair trade: The Book Parlor in Spokane, Wash., sells
books, fair-trade gifts and local art.
The
Spokesman-Review
Governor's
'courageous' book tour: Tim Pawlenty, the
governor of Minnesota, plans a multistate tour to promote his book,
“Courage to Stand,” to be released by Tyndale House Publishers in
January.
The
New York Times
C.S.
Lewis Bible criticized: HarperOne's C.S. Lewis Bible comes under
fire from some who criticize the choice of translation.
The
Toledo Blade
Christian
boutique debuts: One Wing Boutique, a Christian-themed store
selling clothing, jewelry, books, journals and home décor, opens in
Chandler, Ariz.
The
Arizona Republic
'Sappy
Christian art' slammed: A pastor and author believes that much
Christian art is “stale, sappy and downright embarrassing.”
Wilson
County News
'Religious
Right' authors named: Several authors are among a list of the Top
Ten New Faces of the Christian Right.
Newsweek
Mardel
gift benefits university: Oral
Roberts University is to receive $10 million from the owners of Hobby
Lobby and Mardel Christian Book Store to be used for campus
renovations and maintenance projects.
News
On 6
Magi
book's 'valuable message': Brent
Landua's
"Revelation of the Magi: The Lost Tale of the Wise Men's Journey
to Bethlehem offers “a valuable message of tolerance.”
The
Los Angeles Times
Christmas
guide spotlights store: Marie’s
Christian Book and Gift Center in Jacksonville, Fla., is highlighted
in a local Christmas shoppers' guide.
Jacksonville
Daily Progress
'Mega-selling'
Christian author profiled: Naming the “mega-selling Christian
and conservative novelist” who “isn't
considered part of the Christian subculture at all.”
The
American Spectator
'Right-wing
children's books': The “Left Behind” and “Narnia” series
are referenced in an article about “the rise of the right-wing
children's book.”
The
Boston Globe
'Ambitious'
Bible history reviewed: Larry Stone's “The History of the
Bible” is “ambitious, accessible and colorful, though
simplistic.”
Winnipeg
Free Press
“Action
Bible' sells well: Since its a
few months ago, “The Action Bible” has sold an impressive 60,000
copies.
The
(Colo Spgs, Colo.) Gazette
Religious
card sales up: Despite the sour economy, religious card sakes are
up.
Religion
News Service
School
hosts author day: Several local children's authors participated
in the Author Extravaganza day at Mandarin
Christian School's in Jacksonville, Fla.
The
Florida Times-Union
C.S.
Lewis remembered: An examination of the enduring appeal of C.S.
Lewis' work.
CNN
'Bonhoeffer'
biographer interviewed: An interview with Eric Metaxas, author of
the “monumental”
biography, “Bonhoeffer.”
National
Review
Jamaica's
patois New Testament: A
patois translation of the entire New Testament is expected in August
2012, to coincide with the 50th anniversary of Jamaica's
independence.
The
Washington Post
The
legacy of Lewis: The man behind the latest “Narnia” movie on
the legacy of author C.S. Lewis.
The
Wall Street Journal
Industry Radar for the week of Decemeber 15, 2010.
'Narnia'
movie's twin reach: The makers of “The Chronicles of Narnia:
The Voyage of the Dawntreader” are trying to reach both Christian
and secular audiences.
The
Hollywood Reporter
'Dawntreader'
'story of grace': The third movie in the Narnia series is “a
story of temptation, transformation, redemption and grace.”
The
Orlando Sentinel
'Narnia'
is ho-hum: Though
“well-paced, well-performed and full of visual wows,” “The
Voyage of the Dawn Treader “ stops
“just short of committing to its grounding themes.”
Movieline
Point
of Grace's Christmas: Point of Grace's “Home for the Holidays”
Christmas album “blends
longtime holidays favorites with some new material.”
The
Tennessean
Heaven
book sells well: “Heaven
is for Real” is flying off the shelves in many locations, with a
spot on the “New York Times” best seller list.
The
Imperial Republican
Palin
memoir sales 'disappointing': Sarah Palin's new memoir “has
logged disappointing receipts since it officially went on sale/”
The
Washington Post
'Narnia'
hits troubled waters: “The Chronicles
of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader” is about a majestic ship
sailing into uncertain waters and “the theme may as well apply to
the franchise itself.”
USA
Today
'Narnia'
'not much fun': Review: “The
Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader” is
“serviceable, but certainly not much fun.”
USA
Today
Fans
inspire musician's book: Michael
W. Smith's next book, “A
Simple Blessing; The Extraordinary Power of an Ordinary Prayer,”
was inspired by fan
response to a prayer he's been sharing at concerts.
The
Tennessean
Documentary
examines C.S. Lewis: Several authors feature in the Asbury
University-produced documentary, “C.S. Lewis: Why He Matters
Today.”
The
(Lexington, Ky.) Herald-Leader
Library
hosts Christian writer: A Dover, Ohio library hosts a reading
group virtual visit by a Christian author.
The
Times-Reporter
School
wins 'Narnia' premiere: Students at Louisville Christian Academy
won a hometown premiere of the latest “Narnia” movie in a
competition run by Twentieth
Century Fox and Walden Media, in association with Operation Christmas
Child.
The
(Lexington, Ky.) Herald-Leader
'Narnia'
movie's religious controversy: The latest “Narnia” film has
“stirred religious controversy.”
ABC
News
'Narnia':
'Most uneven film': “The
Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage
of the Dawn Treader” is the “most
uneven film adaptation in the series.”
The
Houston Chronicle
Author's
'presidential' tour: The promotional tour for Tim
Pawlenty 's January release from Tyndale House Publishers, "Courage
to Stand," has a “distinctly presidential flavor.”
The
Atlantic
'Narnia'
treads water: The latest “Narnia” movie “merely treads
water” at the box office on its opening weekend.
USA
Today
Industry Radar for the week of Decemeber 8, 2010.
Anne
Rice's 'morality tale': Novelist Anne Rice's latest book, “Of
Love and Evil,” is a “classic
battle between good and evil, angels and devils... an unabashed
morality tale.”
ABC
News
Thomas
Kinkade's new partners: “Painter of Light” Thomas Kinkade's
business plans include
building partnerships with companies like Disney and Warner Bros.,
and strengthening avenues that cater directly to consumers, like home
shopping corporation QVC.
NPR
Cat
devotional 'brings giggles': Anna Aquino's contributions to
"Heavenly Humor for the Cat Lover's Soul" are intended to
“bring the giggles that only cats can bring.”
The
Marion Star
NewSong's
greatest non-hit: While
considered a Christian music band, NewSong's most-requested and
most-performed song, "The Christmas Shoes," never was a
major hit on Christian radio.
The
Argus Leader
Faith-based
'Flag' film: Forthcoming faith-based film, "Flag of My
Father," features renowned actors William Devane and John
Schneider.
The
(Monroe, la.) News Star
Promise
Keeper founder's apology: Promise Keepers founder Bill McCartney
apologizes for a past comment about gays.
The
Daily Camera
'Profound
appeal' of Amish fiction: Despite snarky media coverage of the
popularity of Amish fiction, the books “hold
a profound appeal.”
Newsweek
Hip
Christians book reviewed: A book examines how “Christian
hipsters” are “shifting
the emphasis from God to consumption and image.”
The
Washington Post
Newspaper
offers Christmas list: A newspaper offers a
list of ideas for Christmas gifts with a religious twist.
The
Erie Times-News
'Bonhoeffer'
and Glenn Beck: Glenn Beck interviews Eric
Metaxas, author of "Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy.”
Fox
News
Eclectic
new store opens: The owner
of the Mustard Seed in Aubrey, Texas, “isn’t sure if there is a
term to describe his eclectic faith-based bookstore because it offers
more than books...”
The
Denton Record-Chronicle
Books
marks store anniversary: Betty Burke has written “From Ashes to
Healing,” the story of her turbulent past, to celebrate 30 years'
running The Good News Shop in Leyton, England, with her husband, Tom.
The
(Waltham Forest, England) Guardian
'Fireproof'
stars honorary posting: Kirk Cameron is made an honorary
firefighter for his role in “Fireproof.”
The
Shelby County Reporter
'Narnia'
sequel faces challenge: With
the opening of “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn
Treader,” comes “a study in one of the most difficult challenges
a studio can face: fixing a broken movie series.”
The
New York Times
Google
eBooks arrives: Newly launched Google eBooks is rolling out
across the Web with hundreds of thousands of popular titles for sale
and millions more free, to compete for a slice of the digital books
business.
The
Wall Street Journal
Industry Radar for the week of Decemeber 1, 2010.
Sixty-plus
years over: Abilene
Educational Supply and Christian Bookstores at Abilene Christian
University will close its doors this May after 66 years of business.
The
Optimist
Treasure
House hunts help: Treasure House, a four-decade downtown fixture
in Longview, Wash., will shut its doors by the end of the year if a
buyer doesn't come to the rescue.
The
Daily News
Church
store tax fight: A South Nashville megachurch facing a $425,000
property tax bill is fighting the assessment on its gym, bookstore
and cafe.
The
Tennessean
'Courageous'
rough cut done: Sherwood
Baptist Church has finished the rough editing of latest movie,
"Courageous," which will hit the big screen next year.
WALB
TV
'Lost'
star for 'Jazz': “Lost”
star Tania Raymonde is part of the cast for the film version of
Donald Miller's “Blue Like Jazz.”
The
Whitworthian
Christian
store burgled: The Christian Book Store in Mountain Home, Ark.,
was broken into.
The
Baxter Bulletin
Musician's
'hard' Christmas: Michael W. Smith's annual Christmas shows are
"probably
the hardest that I work every year.”
The
Tennessean
Mardel
welcomes Sarah Palin: A line formed outside Mardel Christian &
Education in Tulsa, Okla., 24 hours ahead of Sarah Palin's book
signing visit.
KTUL
TV
Hundreds
wait for Palin: Hundreds waited outside Mardel Christian &
Education in Tulsa, Okla., to meet Sarah Palin.
The
Tulsa World
'Max'
author's church visit: Emily Colson, daughter of former
presidential counsel Chuck Colson, speaks at a church about her book,
“Dancing with Max.”
The
Post and Courier
Help
for hurting store: Proceeds
from the raffle of a guitar will go to help a financially strapped
Christian bookstore in Plano, Texas.
The
Valley Free Press
Industry Radar for the week of November 24, 2010.
Stephen
Baldwin's new movie: Actor Stephen Baldwin premieres his latest
movie, “Loving the Bad Man,” at a church in Spring Grove, Ill.
The
Northwest Herald
Super
heroes and spirituality: Adam Palmer sees spiritual truths in the
life of a super hero, in his book, “The Soul of Spider-Man:
Unexpected Spiritual Insights Found in the Legendary Super-Hero
Series.”
The
Chattanooga Times Free Press
Fiction
writers joint tour: Five writers of Christian fiction and
nonfiction--Vanessa Miller, Kendra-Norman-Bellamy, Shewanda Riley,
Michelle Stimpson and Dwan Abrams--form Anointed Authors On Tour.
The
Clarion Ledger
Store
sued over rent: A Christian bookstore is among tenants being sued
by a shopping center in Conroe, Ga., that alleges that they failed
to make payments in accordance with lease agreements.
The
Houston Chronicle
TobyMac
takes film role: Stephen Baldwin and musician artist TobyMac are
among the stars of “I’m in Love with a Church Girl,” a
straight-to-DVD-to-BET movie, written by a drug dealer-turned-pastor.
The
Christian Post
Store
shoe box campaign: Amen Christian Bookstore in Marysville, Wash.,
expects to collect 3,000 shoe boxes in this year’s Operation
Christmas Child effort.
The
(Everett, Wash.) Herald
Amish
research prompts changes: Researching
her Amish book, “A Simple Amish Christmas,” reminded writer
Vanetta Chapman that “I need to step away from the computer, spend
some time with my families...”
The
Killeen Daily Herald
'Radical'
referenced by 'NYT': David Platt's “Radical” intrigues a “New
York Times” columnist.
The
New York Times
Oliver
North draws a crowd: Hundreds lined up around the LifeWay
Christian Store in Shreveport, La., to meet Fox News talent, Lt. Col.
Oliver North.
KSLA
TV
'Hero'
meets visiting author: At a book signing, Lt. Col. Oliver North
met up with a familiar face, veteran Robbie Doughty, who was quoted
in North's first book, "American Heroes."
WPSD
TV
Mardel
welcomes Sarah Palin: Sarah Palin visits Mardel Christian and
Education in Tulsa, Okla., as part of her “America By Heart: book
tour.
The
Daily Beast
Updated
NIV 'appeasing' critics: Translators of the updated New
International Version have made changes to appease critics of the
gender-neutral Today's New International Version.
The
Tennessean
Industry Radar for the week of November 17, 2010.
Michael
W. Smith's success: Michael
W. Smith is proud that “I've survived success, which I think is
difficult these days."
Associated
Press
'Religious
publishing control broken': Tony Campolo believes that “the
overwhelming control the Religious Right has had on which books
Christians can read is being broken.”
The
Huffington Post
Pastor's
wife pens romances: Pastor's wife and author Shannon Taylor
Vannatter has several book signings for the first of her three-book
inspirational romance series set in Romance and Rose Bud, Ark.
The
Sun-Times
LifeWay
worker loves job: LifeWay Christian Stores assistant manager
Robin Macanas talks about her love for her job.
The
Fayeteville Observer
Tosca
Lee's 'unsettling' books: Novelist Tosca Lee's “ability to make
reading one of her books eerily like looking in the mirror.. .
unsettles readers.”
The
Lincoln Journal Star
Catholic
store expands borders: After 18 years at its previous location,
St. Joseph's Christian Supply in Visalia, Calif., has moved to larger
premises.
The
Visalia Times-Delta
Tim
Tebow memoir coming: HarperCollins
will publish college football star Tim Tebow's memoir, “Through
My Eyes,”
in April 2011.
The
Huffington Post
Jay
Bakker's next book: PTL
founders' son, Jay Bakker, will see his second book, “Fall
to Grace,”
released in January.
New
York Magazine
Ruth's
'mini department store': Ruth's Christian Bookstore in
Stillwater, Okla., is '”like a mini Christian department store.”
The
Daily O'Collegian
Apparel
store follows traffic: Straight Up Faith Gear has relocated to a
mall in New Bern. N.C., to get more customer traffic.
The
New Bern. N.C.) Sun Journal
Inspirational
vocalist honored: San Diego-bred singer-songwriter Mary James was
honored as Female Vocalist of the Year at the Inspirational Country
Music Awards.
The
North Country Times
Oliver
North's LifeWay visit: Retired Marine Lt. Col. Oliver North
visits LifeWay Christian Stores in Shreveport, La.
The
Shreveport Times
Author
profiled in NYT: Author Priscilla Shirer is profiled in a major
article on the debate about women's roles in the church and in the
home.
The
New York Times
Veteran
jeweler offers discounts: Bob Siemon Designs offers discounts of
up to 97% on its jewelry at its first-ever warehouse sale.
The
Orange County Register
Industry Radar for the week of November 10, 2010.
Soldier's
leap of faith: Former army drill sergeant Rich Farlet opens Leap
Of Faith Christian bookstore opens in Cherry Creek, N.Y.
The
Post-Journal
Seminarian
stars in faith film: Youth
pastor and seminarian John Risner won the lead role in the new
inspirational movie, “The
Free Ride,” about a washed-up bicycle racer who gets a chance to
race again to save his son’s life.
The
Blufton Icon
Reprint
for heavenly account: Todd Burpo's “Heaven
is for Real,” about his young son's near-death experience, is
already in its third printing, soon after release.
The
Imperial Republican
Zondervan
releases 'twinkle': A blogger comments on two Zondervan releases
that come “with
a twinkle in the eye.”
The
Huntsville Times
FBI
store raid hunt: The FBI named the wanted “Thou Shalt Not Steal
Bandit” after a break-in at a Christian bookstore.
The
Arizona Republican
'Faith-filled'
football book: University of Florida football book “Gators for
God” tells “many
rich, faith-filled stories in the history of the Florida Gators."
The
North Florida Herald
Still
'Making a Difference': There
was no “tour fatigue” for the last date in the 20-stop Making A
Difference Tour.
The
Fayetville Observer
'Mature'
romance read: Beth Webb Hart's inspirational romance, “Love,
Charleston,” “treats matters of faith maturely.”
The
(Wilmington, N.C.) Star News
'Poor'
pastor's prayer guide: Pastor Phil Reinders' “Seeking God's
Face: Praying with the Bible Through the Year” was born out of “the
poverty of my own prayer life.”
The
Calgary Herald
Christian
vampire fiction trend: A
growing trend in the Christian fiction market resembles a trend in
the general market—“vampires sell.”
The
Jackson Sun
'Blue
Like Jazz' lessons: The film version of “Blue Like Jazz,” in
production, “illustrates a generation gap among evangelical
churchgoers.”
The
Tennessean
Winter
Jam 2011 line-up: The popular Winter Jam tour hosted by NewSong
returns in the New year with Newsboys, David Crowder Band, Kutless,
Red, Francesca Battistelli, NewSong and emcee KJ-52.
The
Tulsa World
Music
festival's 20th year: Thousand Foot Krutch headlines the 20th
annual Power of One Christian music festival in Appleton, Wisc.
The
Appleton Post Crescent
'Smitty'
film project coming: A film company founded by Christian artist
Michael W. Smith and his son has secured funding for its first
feature film “After,” slated for release by early fall next year.
The
Tennessean
Store's
flag stolen: A flag and its flagpole were stolen from in front of
a Christian bookstore in Northern Virginia.
The
Washington Post
Romantic
light in the darkness: Romance
writer Melanie Dickerson wants “good stories out there for people
to read–especially teen girls... What’s out there now is really
dark.”
The
Andalusia Star News
Industry Radar for the week of November 3, 2010.
Pure
fiction is popular: Romance fiction without sex “isn't limited
to Amish fiction, or to Christian fiction.”
NPR
Christian
business insights: Hobby Lobby founder David Green on the
business' Christian foundations and principles.
Retail's
Big Blog
Saving
'Blue Like Jazz': The effort to save the film version of “Blue
Like Jazz.”
The
Atlantic
Philip
Yancy on faith: An essay by author Philip Yancey about “whether
faith makes a positive difference.”
The
Huffington Post
Third
Day's 'Move': Third Day's latest release, “Move,” gets 2.5
stars.
USA
Today
Second-chance
movie debuts: New
inspirational film, “What If,” is about a man who is given a
second chance at getting his life right.
The
Meridian Star
Faith-based
viewers expand: Faith-based film fans used to be seen as a niche
audience--”now, in Hollywood, they’re just seen as the audience.”
The
Star-Ledger
Skillet's
Christian rock roots: Though Skillet tours with major mainstream
bands, founder and frontman John Cooper says it is important the
group “stay
true to our Christian roots and we don’t try to hide the fact that
we have been in the Christian music industry for a long time.”
The
Maryville Daily Forum
Bible
publishing debate: Publishers, scholars and others discuss how
many different Bible translations and editions are really needed.
The
Oklahoman
Gungor's
'odd' sound: Band founder and frontman Michael Gungor says of the
group bearing his last name, “musically,
it’s kind of odd.”
The
Newberg Graphic
Book
may be filmed: Author Nancy Moser's novel, “Time
Lottery,” is being considered for a film or television series.
The
Louisburg Herald
New
Assisi biography out: Children's
author Robert West has written “Saint Francis,” a biography of
Francis of Assisi, for Thomas Nelson's Christian Encounters series.
The
Ventura County Star
Discount
Christian stores open: Two seasonal discount Christian
bookstores selling titles for $5 or less have opened in the Twin
Cities area.
The
(Minneapolis/St. Paul) Star-Tribune
Devotional
details God's names: Ava Pennington's “One Year Alone with God”
invites readers to “revitalize their devotional life with an
intimate journey through the names of God.”
TC
Palm
$5
stores offer 'encouragement': $5 Christian Book Sale stores in
the Twin Cities area have been “a source of encouragement for
people in the community.”
The
Chanhassen Villager
'Sluggish
economy' impacts sales: Todd Van Ryn, owner of central
Wisconsin's 5 Loaves & 2 Fish chain, attributes slower sales in
recent years “to apathy and a sluggish economy.”
The
Wasau Daily Herald
Store's
Tim Tebow fundraiser: A Christian bookstore helps auction a
jersey belonging to college football star Tim Tebow to raise money
for missions.
The
Canon City Daily Record
Library
adds inspirational fiction: With increased local demand for
“gentle fiction,” a Michigan library has expanded its selection
of inspirational romance.
The
Gaylord Herald Times
Industry Radar for the week of October 27, 2010.
Missionary
supports Store Day: Haiti missionary Amelia Johnson speaks of
her experiences in the country at The Rock Good Book Store in Hays,
Kan., as part of Christian Store Day.
The
Hays Daily News
Author's
hometown murder mysteries: Lynette Eason has set most of her
“suspense with a twist” Christian murder mysteries in her home
town of Spartanburg, S.C.
The
Spartanburg Journal
'Soul-searching'
sports book: Chad Gibbs' “God & Football: “Faith and
Fanaticism in the SEC” is “a soul-searching, gently humorous look
at how his love of football has sometimes rivaled his devotion to
Christianity.”
The
Press-Register
Canadian
writers celebrate: Authors Rudy Wiebe and Sigmund Brouwer spoke
at the 30th anniversary conference of the Alberta-based Inscribe
Christian Writers Fellowship.
The
Edmonton Journal
Store
backs Lucado campaign: New Life Christian Bookstore in Murray,
Ky., is supporting author Max Lucado's efforts to raise child
sponsorships for World Vision.
The
Murray Ledger & Times
Blind
writer's 'gift' ministry: Before he lost his sight, “The
Ultimate Gift” author Jim Stovall was not a reader, and had no
inclination to be a writer.
The
Tulsa World
Writers
win publishing contract: Canadian writers Sara Davison and Robert
White won a Christian book-writing contest that will see their works
printed, marketed and distributed by Winnipeg-based Word Alive Press.
The
Guelph Mercury
'Blue
Like Jazz' saved: The
movie version of Donald Miller's “Blue Like Jazz,” scrapped
because of a lack of cash, is being saved by a group of fans.
Nashville
Business Journal
College
store joins promotion: Central
Christian College of the Bible Bookstore in Moberley, Mo.,
participates in Christian Store Day.
The
Moberley Monitor
Cathedral
bankruptcy hits suppliers: As the famed Crystal Cathedral in Los
Angeles files for bankruptcy, many of the creditors
are
“small Christian-themed publishing houses and gift manufacturers
facing their own struggles as churches across the country see their
donations decline.”
The
Wall Street Journal
Outlet
for local artist: Kolas Christian Bookstore in Highland, Ind.,
carries Christian comic books created by a local resident.
The
(Northwest Indiana) Times
'Blind
Side' wins accolade: “The Blind Side” is named Inspirational
Movie of the Year.
ABC
News
Hunger
author's faith challenge: David
Beckmann, author of "Exodus
from Hunger: We Are Called to Change the Politics of Hunger,” says
“you don't have to be Mother Teresa; you only have to have faith
the size of a mustard seed to move mountains.”
The
Huffington Post
'90
Minutes' launches ministry: Don Piper's book about glimpsing
eternal life after a terrible car crash “launched a ministry that
has reached millions.”
The
Traverse City Record Eagle
Store
Day in Ohio: Stores in Newark, Ohio support Christian Store Day.
The
Newark Advocate
Store
Day in Pennsylvania: Stores in Erie, Pa., support Christian Store
Day.
The
Erie-Times News
Tour
gathers 'heavy hitters': The
Make A Difference Tour 2010 features “some of the heavy hitters in
contemporary Christian music.”
The
Arizona Republic
'Very
funny' football book: Chad
Gibbs' study of sports fans watching games resulted in “a very
funny book,” "God & Football: Faith and Fanaticism in the
SEC.
The
Tampa Tribune
Make
a Difference Tour: When
you combine a best-selling author with some of the top names in
Christian music, you get Make
a Difference Tour 2010.
The
Appleton Post-Crescent
Industry Radar for the week of October 20, 2010.
Second serial killer book: An inmate who knew serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer in prison has written a book about their discussions about faith, "Serial Killer's Soul," released last month.
The Chicago Tribune
Ten Commandments movie released: Inspirational movie, "I AM", created by parishioners of Mariners Church in Irvine, Calif., documents the journeys of 10 people as they struggle with the effects of failing to follow the 10 commandments.
The Orange County Register
30-year store closes: After 30 years operating Kingdom Come Books and Gifts in Carmel, Calif., Sue Creel has decided "it's time to do something else"--at age 80.
The Herald
Kingsbury fans travel far: Some Karen Kingsbury fans traveled for several hours to attend a signing in Thousand Oaks, Calif., to promote the release of the movie version of her novel, "Like Dandelion Dust."
The Ventura County Star
Church's 'conversational' film-making: One of the latest churches to get into movie making says the aim is to "start conversations... We're not trying to convert anybody to anything."
The Cincinnati Enquirer
Diamond Jubilee store shuttered: After almost 60 years, Bible Book Center in Gary, Ind., is closing down.
The Post-Tribune
Movie studios target Christians: Movie producers are tailoring their products to Christian audiences "in their latest bid to maintain box office revenues."
The (London, U.K.) Telegraph
'Queen of clean comedy': As the "queen of clean comedy," Chonda Pierce has "brought the laughs to churches nationwide."
The Odessa American
All-star 'Difference' tour: The all-star Christian music line-up for the Make a Difference tour has "a pragmatic reason: the economy."
The (Long Beach, Calif.) Press-Telegram
Coach Bowden 'even busier': At 80, retired football coach Booby Bowden is busier than ever, promoting his recent book, "Called To Coach: Reflections on Life, Faith and Football."
TC Palm
Store moves, doubles size: St. Joseph's Christian Supply in Visalia, Calif., is relocating in a move that will more than double its space.
The Visalia Time-Delta
From missions to manuscripts: A former missionary to Zimbabwe, Valerie Massey Goree has turned to writing Christian fiction.
The Bandera County Courier
'Quirky' Mercy Me album: The subject of Mercy Me's latest, concept album, "The Generous Mr. Lovewell," is "kind of like (The Beatles') Sgt. Pepper, but he's quirky."
The Courier News
Banker-author addresses faith: Top banker and author of "God at Work: Living Every Day with a Purpose," Ken Costa, is touring the U.S., speaking about faith in the financial world.
The Wall Street Journal
Faith-based films grow: "The demand for quality faith-based (movie) content is just continuing to grow."
Fox News
New store's prayer offer: The new PTL+ Bookstore in Big Bear lake, Calif., also offers healing and prayer rooms in connection with the local International House of Prayer.
Big Bear Grizzly
Inspirational faith film debuts: The star power of "The Way Home," coupled with the film's faith-based message, "garnered a sellout premiere."
The Times-Georgian
Christian author a media 'fixture': Christianity and the popular culture is a favorite topic for author Eric Metaxas, who is "a fixture on national talk shows and blogs."
The (Lynchburg, Va.) News & Advance
LifeWay stores break-in: Thieves broke into the LifeWay Christian Store in Charlotte, N.C.
WSOC TV
Industry Radar for the week of October 13, 2010.
Soap star's faith role: MacKenzie Mauzy, known to fans of soap opera “The Bold and the Beautiful” for her role of “Phoebe Forrester,” is one of the stars of the faith-based “Fishers of Men,” currently filming.
The Post-Searchlight
International film contest winners: The winners have been announced from the first annual Phoenix International Christian Film Festival, hosted by Maricopa-based XPmedia in Tempe, Ariz.
The Maricopa Monitor
Kirk Cameron discusses ministry: Actor Kirk Cameron "never set out to start a ministry," but “I'm at a wonderful place in my life.”
The Mansfield News-Journal
'Hip Christian' author's commentary: Author Brett McCracken on “the curious case of the Christian hipster.”
CNN
Historian Peter Marshall remembered: Author and historian Peter Marshall is remembered.
The Washington Post
Travis Tritt's new role: Country artist Travis Tritt has scored a role as the character Eddie Waters in the upcoming Christian movie, “Fishers of Men.”
Country weekly
Back-to-life book: Cardiologist Chauncey Crandall IV's “Raising the Dead” tells the story of a patient that came back to life after being prayed for.
Palm Beach Daily News-Journal
'Secretariat' sold to Christians: Horse racing movie, “Secretariat,” is being promoted to the "faith-based audience.” in the style of the surprise hit, “The Blind Side.”
The Hollywood Reporter
'Offensive' bookstore's ad ban: The owner of a Christian book store in Kittanning, Pa., has been denied advertising on a restaurant menu because, he was told, the name “Christian” is offensive.
The Kittanning Paper
Kirk Cameron films documentary: Kirk Cameron has recently finished filming "Monumental," a documentary that tracks God's influence on the formation of America.
The News & Observer
Author's homeless ministry research: For her latest novel, “Almost Forever,” about a woman who volunteers at a homeless shelter, author Deborah Raney decided to volunteer herself—an experience that “touched her life.”
The Newton Kansan
Comedy tour supports counseling: Comedian Chonda Pierce's latest tour is helping raise money for Branches Recovery Center, the ministry she founded to help others facing depression as she has in the past.
The Houston Chronicle
Retired teacher's debut novel: “Annie’s Creek” by retired teacher Sandra Michael Park, follows a college professor’s journey as he reads an ancestor’s journal covering Texas’ fight for statehood.
The Courier
Industry Radar for the week of October 6, 2010.
Karen Kingsbury on 'Dandelion': Karen Kingsbury talks about the movie version of her book, "Like Dandelion Dust."
CBN
Sherwood Pictures, pace setter: The new face of church ministry is making movies "and no church is more successful at it than Sherwood Baptist, now making movies under the title Sherwood Pictures."
Fox News
Pastor's marriage advice series: Pastor Ed Doerner's relationship teaching and counseling has led to the book and DVD series, "Building Healthy Marriages."
The Saginaw News
Max Lucado's multi-millions: Max Lucado has sold more than 100 million print products since he wrote his first book more than 25 years ago.
The San Antonio Business Journal
Iowa store hosts authors: Stepping Stones Christian bookstore in downtown Marshalltown, Iowa, hosts a book signing for two local authors.
The Times-Republican
Authors speak at summit: Musician Derek Webb and author Shane Claiborne among the speakers at ACU Summit 2010, at Abilene Christian University, Texas.
The Abilene Reporter-News
Resurrection movie deal agreed: Faith-based multimedia company 33 Hope has signed a co-production and distribution deal for a feature film being produced in Israel about the time after Christ's death and resurrection.
The Tampa Bay Business Journal
Berenstain Bears go iPad: Three of Zondervan's faith-based Berenstain Bears kids books are being released for the iPad.
Xconomy
Writer's football marathon: To research "God & Football: Faith and Fanaticism in the SEC," writer Chad Gibbs traveled to every SEC school, one per weekend during the 2009 season.
The Montgomery Advertiser
Best-selling author's keynote: Best-selling author Cecil Murphey will be keynoting the Southeastern Christian Writers Conference in Cleveland.
The Cleveland Daily Banner
'Jabez' author addresses convocation: Author Bruce Wilkinson, best known for his book "The Prayer of Jabez," speaks at Liberty University's convocation.
Liberty News
Group urges book boycott: A Christian group has urged a boycott of the latest book by GP Taylor, a former vicar who wrote the bestselling "Shadowmancer,' for encouraging interest in the occult.
The (York, England) Press
Matthew West, 'hit maker': Since he made the leap from successful songwriter to recording artist with his 2003 debut, Matthew West has become "one of the Christian genre's most consistent hit makers."
The U.S. Daily
Superchick's 'new, old sound': Superchick's current Reinvention Tour says its name from the band's latest album, which "took old songs and made them sound new."
The Press-Enterprise
Industry Radar for the week of September 29, 2010.
'Dandelion' gathers awards: "Like Dandelion Dust" may just now be entering theaters, but the film version of Karen Kingsbury's story has been making the rounds at national and international film festivals since January 2009, garnering more than 35 awards.
The California Chronicle
Romance writer's other life: Karen Witemeyer, romance author of "Head in the Clouds" and "A Tailor-Made Bride," is university testing center coordinator at Abilene Christian University, Texas.
The (Abilene, Texas) Optimist
Pneumafest draws top acts: Local bands join top acts like Stellar Kart and Rush of Fools at the seventh annual Pneumafest in Williamson, W.V.
The Williamson Daily News
CBD 'fully into' ebooks: Christian Book Distributors is "fully into the e-book market."
The Salem News
Filmmaking brothers' long journey: The opening in theaters of "Like Dandelion Dust" marks the end of a six-year journey for movie producer brothers Kevin and Bobby Downes.
The Visalia Times-Delta
'Dandelion' backers' support: A couple that backed the making of "Like Dandelion Dust" talk about their involvement with the film.
The Ventura County Star
Author helps other victims: Author Mary DeMuth writes about the pain of child abuse and the Web site she runs to give others a place to share their hurts.
The Washington Post
Home preview for 'Dandelion': Karen Kingsbury previewed the movie adaptation of her book, "Like Dandelion Dust," for friends and family in her Vancouver home theater.
The Columbian
Church sponsors movie premiere: A church in Wauseon, Ohio is sponsoring the local premiere of "Like Dandelion Dust."
The Toledo Blade
Jeremy Camp's 'balanced' music: Jeremy Camp's recordings have "a balance of passionate and powerful songs. Many of those tracks are poignant, and they all are reverent."
The Courier News
Francine Rivers' 'statement of faith': Author Francine Rivers has called her best-selling novel, "Redeeming Love," her "statement of faith."
The Knoxville News Sentinel
'Hip Christian' author's view: Brett McCracken's "Hipster Christianity: When Church and Cool Collide," "looks critically at the recent trend of young Christians who have blurred the lines between secular culture and the church."
The Austin Statesman
Industry Radar for the week of September 22, 2010.
'Potential' movie follows cyclist: Liberty University alumni Scotty Curlee's family-friendly movie, “The Potential Inside,” tells the life story of a professional mountain biker and coach.
Liberty News
'Hercules' asks 'What If?': Dallas Jenkins, director of the new inspirational movie, “What If,” admits that “I don’t usually like Christian films.”
The (Colorado Springs, Colo.) Gazette
Store burgled second time: A Christian bookstore in Springfield, Mo., has been burgled twice in less than two weeks.
KY3 TV
Amish novels selling well: Novels about life and love in Amish country are “flying off the shelves.”
The Lancaster New Era
'Dandelion Dust' makes an impact: Filming the screen adaptation of Karen Kingsbury's “Like Dandelion Dust” had “a marked effect” on actress Mira Sorvino.
CNN
Store offers tasty treats: Brenda Stone Browder's new Rolling Pen Book Cafe in Springfield, Ohio, features Christian books—including her own—and homemade pies.
The Yellow Springs News
Author's second book award: Christopher H.K. Persaud has won his second national award, this one for "The DaVinci Code Revisited: A Conclusive Refutation of the Widespread, Sinister Lie."
The Record
Musicians' backstage chat: Aaron Shust and Big Daddy Weave singer Mike Weaver discuss life on the road.
The Bakersfield Californian
Festival features top acts: The seventh annual Uprise Festival in Shippensburg, Pa., will feature some of the biggest names in Christian music as well as some homegrown bands.
Chambersburg Public Opinion
Bethany author addresses festival: Bethany House novelist Karen Witemeyer is a panelist-speaker at the West Texas Book & Music Festival.
The (Abilene, Texas) Reporter-News
Ricky Skaggs' gospel album: Award-winning country musician Ricky Skaggs talks about the spiritual theme of his new album, “Mosaic.”
The Tennessean
Christian movie festival: The Projecting Hope festival in Pittsburgh spotlights Christian movies, including Dallas Jenkins' new “What If?” starring Kevin Sorbo.
The Charlotte Observer
Industry Radar for the week of September 15, 2010.
Greeting card giveaway spotlighted: Family Christian Stores' free greeting card giveaway gets the thumbs-up from a budget shopping guide.
The (Newport News, Va.) Daily Press
Christian fiction writer noted: Novelist Beth Webb Hart's signature themes of love, hope, and faith have made her popular in the Christian fiction genre, but "her well-written descriptions of Lowcountry life have broadened her audience beyond the church-going crowd."
Charleston City paper
Football couple's memoir highlighted: In their book, "Without a Word: How a Boy's Unspoken Love Changed Everything," Jim and Jill Kelly tell how "God worked through their son to keep them together and to show them what really matters."
The (Rochester, N.Y.) Democrat & Chronicle
Singers launch concert books: Sandy Blackburn's "Time Spent With God," a collection of devotionals, has been chosen by gospel singing group The Hoppers as the first in the Hopper Heritage Series, which will be sold at concerts.
The (Lexington, N.C.) Dispatch
School's football gesture recalled: David Thomas' forthcoming book, "Remember Why You Play," tells the story of the Faith Christian Lions of Grapevine, Texas, who made headlines when they hosted a visiting team from a maximum security facility for teens.
Forth Worth Star-Telegram
Movie promotes suicide awareness: A church in Slidell, La., hosts a free screening of teen drama, "To Save a Life," as part of National Suicide Prevention Week.
The St. Tammany News
Special 400th KJV title: As part of its 400th anniversary celebration campaign for the King James Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers is releasing "The Story of the Bible," a visually-enhanced history covering the writing and transmission of the Bible through the ages.
The Sun Herald
'Black Christian culture industry': A professor of religion examines 'a veritable black Christian culture industry, complete with countless commodities and commercial opportunities."
CNN
'Riven' for big screen: Filming the movie version of Jerry Jenkins' "Riven" starts soon, with the author's son, Dallas, directing.
The (Colorado Springs, Colo.) Gazette
Singer on 'Counting Stars': Musician and author Andrew Peterson discusses his latest album, "Counting Stars/"
The Oklahoman
Touching children's 'sacred imagination': Children's author Andrew Peterson believes "there's something really sacred about the imagination of an 8-year-old boy or girl."
The Topeka Capital-Journal
Bicycle racing faith film: Inspirational movie, "The Free Ride," tells the story of former world-class road racing bicycle champion Colter Reese, banned from professional racing and given a chance of redemption.
The (Bucyrus, Ohio) Telegraph Forum
Industry Radar for the week of September 8, 2010.
Home sale kits boom: Sales of the "St. Joseph the Worker Home Sellers Kit" have gone up at Queen of Angels Catholic Store in Mandarin, Fla., since the slump in the housing market.
The Florida Times-Union
Music drama cameras roll: Inspirational drama, "Life Fine Tuned," about a spoiled young pop star who gains a better perspective about life, is being filmed in Culpeper, Va.
The Richmond Times-Dispatch
Stage 'Screwtape' introduction: Actor Max McLean's off-Broadway adaptation of C.S. Lewis' "The Screwtape Letters" is "a really good introduction to the book.""
CNN
Church film picked up: "The Grace Card," a faith-based film made by Calvary Church of the Nazarene in Cordova Tenn., has been picked up for national distribution by the "Fireproof" distributors.
The (Memphis, Tenn.) Commercial Appeal
Agents seek Hollywood interest: Glass Roads Public Relations and The Sam Hill group are hoping to generate more Hollywood attention for Christian authors by combining their author management experience and motion picture industry knowledge.
Nashville Business Journal
Store supports jobs ministry: Vine and Branches Inspirational Gifts in Bolingbrook, Ill., helps supports the ministry of the Power Connection, which operates a food bank and provides jobs training.
The Bolingbrook Sun
Debut author's teen series: Melanie Dickerson's debut novel, "The Healer's Apprentice," is the first in a three-part series based loosely on fairy tales, written for teens and adults.
The Huntsville Times-Dispatch
'Mockingbird' classic offers lessons: Matt Litton, author of "The Mockingbird Parables," says that Harper Lee's classic, "To Kill a Mockingbird," "challenges us to remember that our faith should impact our actions today."
CNN
Purity author's porn pal: "Eyes of Integrity" author Craig Gross writes about his friendship with porn star Ron Jeremy.
CNN
First-timer's publishing hit: A 64-year-old first-time author from Wales is finding international interest in his Christian fantasy series.
BBC News
LifeWay's Northwestern expansion: LifeWay Christian Stores, one of the major Christian bookstore chains in the United States, is moving into the Twin Cities after acquiring five Northwestern Book Stores in the area.
Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal
Stores' overseas resource campaign: Christian bookstores and businesses in East Peoria, Ill., are partnering to send Christian reading materials around the world.
The Pekin Times
Industry Radar for the week of September 1, 2010.
Used book programs appreciated: Used book programs at two Christian stores in Knoxville, Tenn., get the thumbs-up.
The Knoxville News Sentinel
Veggies' 'young Walt Disney': VeggieTales' co-creator Mike Nawrocki is like "a young Walt Disney."
The Tennessean
Country singer's childhood memoir: Country singer Jimmy Wayne is working with co-author Travis Thrasher on "Paper Angels," a fictionalized version of his painful past as a foster child, for Howard Books.
The Tennessean
'Earthy' theologian's memoir: A one-time bricklayer, Stanley Hauerwas, author of an acclaimed new memoir, "doesn't cuss as much as he once did, but for a world-class theologian he's still earthy."
The Dallas Morning News
Modern-day 'Pilgrim's Progress': In inspirational movie, "The Wylds," the classic "The Pilgrim's Progress" has been turned into "an action-adventure flick packed with classic kid-friendly elements."
The Daily Inter Lake
Store births local concert: The idea for a local open-air Christian concert was born at Gemma Osborne's Christian bookstore, Divine Oasis, in Lewiston, Maine.
The Sun Journal
Central Florida as 'Holywood': The movies already have a Hollywood and a Bollywood, "but some local filmmakers see Central Florida staking its claim as 'Holywood.'"
The Orlando Sentinel
Christian bookseller remembered: Bob Scheffler is remembered for his Christian bookstore minustry-including leaving copies of the Bible in public phone booths for people to find.
The Kitsap Sunday
Store features local author: Local author James Meyer's first book is featured at the Christian Book and Gift Shop in Rochester, Minn.
The Post-Bulletin
Industry Radar for the week of August 25, 2010.
Attorney-author profiled: Robert Whitlow has "paired his love of God with 31 years of legal practice and produced a string of 10 novels set in the South."
The (Raleigh, N.C.) News & Observer
Teen sailor's book: Abby Sunderland, the teenager whose solo attempt to sail around the world ended unsuccessfully, has hired Sarah Palin's "Going Rogue" collaborator, Lynn Vincent, to co-write her story.
The San Diego Union-Tribune
'Weak economy' closes store: His Bible & Book House in Brighton, Mich., is closing after 31 years, due to a weak economy and growing online book sales.
The Livingston County Daily Press & Argus
Star defends teen drama: One of the stars of the Christian teen drama, "To Save a Life," defends the "corny at times" movie from liberal critics.
Fox News
Lessons from a classic: High school English teacher has marked the 50th anniversary of publication of "To Kill a Mockingbird," with "The Mockingbird Chronicles," looking at the spiritual lessons in the classic book.
CNN
Cut-price Jeremy Camp: Jeremy Camp's new album, "Jesus Saves," was offered to 5,000 lucky fans for just $5 each as part of his appearance at the Colorado Rockies' Faith day event.
The Denver Post
'Silenced' author still speaks: Pastor Lyle Kath may have lost his voice to cancer but that hasn't stopped him speaking for God...as an author.
WCCO TV
Multi-author book signing: Six new Christian authors met with fans and signed books at Truth Christian Store & Event Center in Plant City, Fla.
The Tampa Tribune
Rebecca's new worship CD: Rebecca St. James is working on a worship- oriented album that will combine new music and established praise hits that she anticipates will put a "fresh modern feel" on worship.
The Lexington Herald-Leader
Genesis movie finds commonality: Minister Jerry Zandstra's new $5 million movie, "The Genesis Code," argues that the book of Genesis and the findings of science "agree just fine."
The Grand Rapids Press
'M*A*S*H' star's faith film: Filming has begun on Christian movie "Heading Home," starring Emmy winner Gary Burghoff of "M*A*S*H" fame.
The Orlando Sentinel
Industry Radar for the week of August 18, 2010.
Tony Dungy book signing: NBC sports anchor and former NFL coach Tony Dungy signs copies of his latest book at a LifeWay Christian Store in Orlando, Fla.
WESH TV
Amish author book tour: Award-winning, bestselling Amish author Beverly Lewis will make 30 stops almost exclusively in Pennsylvania in promotion of “The Thorn,” the premiere release in her new series, “The Rose Trilogy.”
The Daily American
Store's 'blessing in disguise': The storm that damaged Christian Book & Gift Shop in Rochester, Minn., was “a blessing in disguise.”
The (Rochester, Minn.) Post-Bulletin
Evangelist launches Twitter Bible: In his Twitter Bible, British evangelist Chris Juby plans to summarize the Scriptures in a series of 1,190 brief posts on the social media network.
The (London, England) Guardian
Memoirist's hometown visit: Rebecca Nichols Alonzo signs copies of her memoir, “The Devil in Pew Number Seven,” at The Salt Shaker in Wilmington, N.C., close to where the headline-making events about which she writes took place.
The (Wilmington, N.C.)Star News
Joel Osteen 'lines shelves': Pastor and author Joel Osteen's “smiling face lines shelves at every bookstore.”
The Virginian-Pilot
Industry Radar for the week of August 11, 2010.
Gospel great's unlikely pairing: Gospel great Mavis Staples has formed an unlikely creative partnership with alt-country musician Jeff Tweedy.
USA Today
Fiction finalist's new titles: American Christian Fiction Writers award nominee Mae Nunn's upcoming releases will be "A Season for Family" in November 2010 and "Her Love Next Door" set for April 2011.
The (Newnan, Ga.)Times-Herald
'Unpreachy' Christian kids film: Unlike some Christian films distributed for general theatrical release, "Ryann Watters and the King's Sword," based on a children's book and currently being filmed, “is not preachy.”
The Daily Commercial
Memoir of 'terror saga': Rebecca Nichols Alonzo's memoir, “The Devil in Pew Number Seven,” tells of “a bloody climax to a saga of terror.”
The (Wilmington, N.C.) Star News
Amish fiction growth highlighted: It is “plain and simple: The Amish inspirational is one of the fastest-growing genres in romance publishing.”
USA Today
Tony Dungy's hat-trick: With his third book in three years, “The Mentor Leader,” Tony Dungy “is becoming known more as an author than as a coach.”
News Channel 15
Long-time editor noted: Robert Delancy worked with writers such as Corrie ten Boom during more than 40 years as book editor for Christian Literature Crusade.
The Lancaster New Era
Industry Radar for the week of August 4 , 2010.
Doves fly from Nashville: Moving the Gospel Music Association's annual Dove Awards to Atlanta for 2011 has disappointed people in long-time host city Nashville.
The Tennessean
Doves move 'ruffles feathers': There are some "ruffled feathers and hurt feelings" following the announcement of the Dove Awards' 2011 move from Nashville to Atlanta.
The Tennessean
' A big fat doubter': Author Jason Boyett confesses he is "a big fat doubter."
The Washington Post
From Christys to Carols: 2010 Christy Award winner Jill Williamson has been named a finalist for the American Christian Fiction Writers' Carol Awards.
Blue Mountain Eagle
Heaven Fest draws crowds: Casting Crowns is among the bands appearing at Heaven Fest Christian music festival in Boulder, Colo., expected to draw as many as 50,000 people.
The Daily Camera
Hillsong returns to America: With more than 11 million records sold, Hillsong is one of the most popular worship groups in the world, but hadn't been to the United States in nearly a decade until the current tour.
CNN
Anne Rice 'quits' Christianity: Best known for her gothic novels, but having renewed her faith in recent years, novelist Anne Rice has announced she is no longer "a Christian."
USA Today
Faith book 'builds slowly': In Peter Hitchens' "The Case Against God.," the case for faith "is built slowly and rationally."
The New York Times
Store hosts candidates' debate: A batch of Republican candidates for office descended upon Gifts of Grace Christian bookstore and cafe in Gladbrook, Iowa, to discuss everything from budget woes to illegal immigration in a public forum.
The Waterloo daily Courier
Music festival's new sound: The music acts at the Heaven Fest Christian music festival in Boulder, Colo., are not "your grandma's church choir (although there are some grandmas who showed up to rock out)."
The Daily Camera
Discussing Anne Rice's announcement: Emergent church writer Brian McLaren discusses Anne Rice's decision to "quit being a Christian."
CNN
Meatloaf reads Christian novel: Singer and actor Meatloaf endorses a Christian novel.
The Winnipeg Free Press
Industry Radar for the week of July 28, 2010.
'Thanks and goodbye': An 11th anniversary sale at Susan Moon's Free Spirit Christian bookstore in Waynesboro, Pa., is to be followed by a going-out-of-business sale—a victim of the economy.
Public Opinion
Comic book leader 'stunned': Pastor and Kingstone Media CEO Art Ayris said he is "stunned" by the international response to his company's inspirational comic books.
Baptist Press
YA title's movie deal: The Christian youth-action adventure book, “Ryann Watters and the King’s Sword,” is being filmed for a summer 2011 release.
The (Bowling Green, Ky.) Daily News
Crossover kids author's mission: A late-in-life convert to Christ, veteran children's author Mike Thaler says, “I just want to transmit the joy of loving God.”
The (Colorado Springs, Colo.) Gazett
Jerry Jenkins, tough teacher: As a writing coach, best-selling author Jerry Jenkins is soft spoken and genial, “but he doesn’t mince words in his critiques.”
The (Colorado Springs, Colo.) Gazette
33 Hope project launches: Multimedia project 33 Hope joins other Christian ventures such as "The Purpose Driven Life" and "The Love Dare" that incorporate books, film, music and small groups.
The Tampa Bay Tribune
Top preachers link up: Two of the world's best-known TV ministers and authors got together in Houston for an event that was literally the first of its kind at Lakewood Church.
KTRK TV
Evolution author's middle way: “You don't have to choose between loving and following Jesus and believing in evolution," says Rachel Held Evans, author of the new memoir, “Evolving in Monkey Town.”
USA Today
Christian magazines face challenges: Specialization is the name of the game — and sometimes the key to survival--for Christian magazines, experts say
Religion News Service
Sign ban impacts store: A ban on sandwich-board signs has led to a slump in business at Marvin Marlett's Christian Designs Bible Bookstore in Santa Maria, Calif.
The Santa Maria Times
Missing boy movie releases: “The Way Home,” based on producer Randy Simpkins' experience of his young son going missing, releases on DVD, to Christian stores on Oct. 6.
The Times-Georgian
Closing store 'fulfilled mission': Though their Living Water Christian Bookstore and Cafe in Ottawa, Ohio, is closing after 20 months, owners Matt and Beth Naylor say the business' spiritual mission was fulfilled.
Putnam County Sentinel
'Blind Side' couple speak: ”The Blind Side” couple, Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy, talk about their new book, "In a Heartbeat: Sharing the Power of Cheerful Giving.”
Fox News
Industry Radar for the week of July 22, 2010.
Son of Sam's 'makeover': David Berkowitz, the “Son of Sam” killer turned Christian prisoner, has undergone an “:image makeover.”
The New York Times
'Stained glass movies' trend: Michael Catt, senior pastor of Sherwood Baptist Church, makers of “Facing the Giants” and “Fireproof,” says: "Movies are the stained-glass windows of the 21st century, the place to tell the Gospel story to people who may not read a Bible.”
USA Today
Christian-themed football film: As an actor, Big Spence has appeared in TV's "Californication" and "Ghost Whisperer," but as a producer of independent films he is to shoot a Christian football, "The American Dream," in Grand Rapids, Mich.
The Grand Rapids Press
Sarah Palin title delayed: Christian book publisher Zondervan is delaying publication of a Sarah Palin biography for young readers.
Associated Press
Bookstore robbed at knife point: A man robbed Nephi's Books, a Christian bookstore in Richland County, Wis., at knife point.
WIS TV
Author's Ohio book tour: Kim Vogel Sawyer will make 13 stops on her Ohio book-signing tour promoting her latest release, “In Every Heartbeat.”
The Chillicothe Gazette
Spider-Man's spirituality explored: Authors Adam Palmer and Jeff Dunn embarked on a mission to weave together spiritual messages from the three Spider-Man movies in “The Soul of Spider-Man.” Read more
Religion News Service
Authors back leader training: Two Christian authors are among the founders of Veritas Riff, which aims to help equip “Christian thought leaders" who "can speak in a culturally influential manner to a broad audience.
The Wall Street Journal
'Amen' book movie planned: Author ReShonda Tate Billingsley's second and highly popular novel, "Let the Church Say Amen," is being adapted for the big screen.
The Detroit News
'Humbled' by CBA award: Steve and Marie Prickett, owners of Logos Christian Bookstore in Alexandria, Ky., were “humbled” to receive the 2010 Spirit of Excellence for Customer Experience from CBA.
The Cincinnati Inquirer
Doctor's faith health message: Doctor and author Francisco Contrareras is”convinced that there is no substitute for a firm grounding in Christ for people managing disease.”
The Washington Post
'Survivor' contestant's book success: “Survivor” contestant Austin Carty’s book, “High Points and Lows: Life, Faith and Figuring It All Out,” has proved popular with teens and retirees alike.
The (Burlington, N.C.) Times-News
Publisher back controversial professor: A Christian publishing company has no plans to pull titles written by a Baptist seminary president recently demoted for making "factual statements that are self-contradictory" in sermons and speeches.
Associated Baptist Press
'Blue Like Jazz' profile: “Blue Like Jazz” author Donald Miller recalls “the greatest sermon I ever heard.”
CCN
Debut author sets sail: With her debut Tyndale House Publishers novel, "Crossing Oceans," doing well, Gina Holmes is giving up her nursing career to pursue writing full time.
The Star-Ledger
Industry Radar for the week of July 13, 2010.
Korn guitarist's Christian gig: Former Korn guitarist Brian 'Head" Welch says his new Christian music career is a lot like his time with the mainstream band, "only the crowds are smaller."
The Charleston Gazette
Store marks 16 years: In the light of the economy, Carretta McLean feels "blessed" to be celebrating the 16th anniversary of her business, Your Christian Book Store, in Gastonia, N.C.
The Gaston Gazette
Turning to Christian fiction: After a general market career with more than 30 novels, Karen Young has entered the Christian fiction arena with "Blood Bayou" and "Missing Max."
The (Mobile, Ala.) Press-Register
Bible museum planned: A Christian bookstore and a museum displaying rare antique Bibles and documents related to church history is planned for Lynchburg, Va.
The (Lynchburg, Va.) News & Advance
Live leader's new direction: Former Live frontman Ed Kowalczyk talks about the spiritual journey that has seen him rediscover his Christian faith and release a solo album on Sony/Provident/
CNN
Festival's 'party with purpose': Lifefest Christian music festival, the "party with a purpose," finished with a service featuring evangelist and author Luis Palau, rock band Kutless and singer/songwriter and speaker Peder Eide.
The (Appleton, Wisc.) Post-Crescent
Urban music film coming: Due out next year, urban Christian movie, "Stand," focuses on three young hip-hop gospel artists struggling in the industry who refuse to trade their beliefs for fame.
The Item
Winning store likes 'loitering': Lorraine Valk's award-winning Christian bookstore in St. Joseph, Mich., encourages "loitering."
The Herald-Palladium
Christian festival stays strong: Despite a downturn in sales for other events, attendance at KingsFest in Doswall, Va., remained strong this year, organizers said, because of the strong Christian message and the family-oriented experience.
The Richmond Times-Dispatch
Pets in heaven debate: New books have been debating the issue of whether loved pets will be in heaven.
Religion News Service
Agent's take on ICRS: Christian literary agent Chip MacGregor "has a lot to say" about the International Christian Retail Show.
The Joplin Globe
Palin bio avoids pregnancy: Zonderkidz' young readers biography of Sarah Palin, Speaking Up," will make no mention of her daughter Bristol Palin's unplanned teenage pregnancy.
The New York Times
Singer Walter Hawkins remembered: Walter Hawkins, who has died aged 61, "put a powerful stamp on contemporary gospel music" during a career that spanned 40 years.
USA Today
Book challenges 'one' belief: Challenging popular belief, Stephen Prothero's new book, "God is Not One," contends that all religions do not lead to the same eternal outcome.
The Tennessean
Industry Radar for the week of July 7, 2010.
Christian music festival grows: Attendance at the Big Ticket Festival in Gaylord, Mich., featuring Leeland, was expected to surpass 10,000.
The Gaylord
Christian book bloggers spotlighted: Christian readers are among the "vibrant" book blogging community that is catching the attention of publishers.
The Los Angeles Times
'Anger' over Eldredge book: John Eldredge has expressed "sorrow and anger" that his best-selling men's book, "Wild at Heart," has become required reading for members of a notorious Mexican drug cartel.
The (Colorado Springs, Colo.) Gazette
Series asks tough questions: The "Where's the Faith"series of books poses questions on topics like sex and race to a wide variety of religious, agnostic, social justice and other leaders and thinkers.
The Pueblo Chieftain
Author's past under scrutiny: Questions surround the validity of claims by author Ergun Caner about his Muslim past. The Washington Post
Baptist dead let go: A Baptist minister who toured the country to talk about his conversion from Islam to Christianity is no longer the dean of Liberty University's theological seminary following allegations he fabricated or embellished facts about his past.
The Washington Post
Prolific writer is profiled: Nearly 20 years after a car accident led to her pursuing a career in writing, Bonnie Leon is a "prolific" inspirational author.
The (Douglas County, Ore.) News-Review
YA Palin biography: Expected in bookstores this fall, "Speaking Up: The Sarah Palin Story," is part of the Zonderkidz biography series for young adults.
The Christian Science Monitor
Jim Wallis festival flap: A Christian radio station is canceling its sponsorship of a large Christian music festival in Wisconsin because of the inclusion of author Jim Wallis among the speakers.
The Milwaukee-Wisconsin Journal Sentinel
Christian movie ratings welcomed: Christian retailers "really want there to be a rating system to help them serve their customers," says Bobby Downes, producer of "Like Dandelion Dust."
The Oklahoman
Faith-based apps arrive: Christian publishers have begun producing smart-phone applications to further the faith.
The New York Times
Ex-Zondervan group initiative: Five former Zondervan executives have launched a new company to help authors "make a tech-savvy world work to their publishing advantage."
Michigan Business Review
'Wild at Heart' 'hijacked': John Eldredge has a change of heart about a Mexican drug cartel's making reading of his "Wild at Heart" mandatory for members.
Religion News Service
Christian music festival highlighted: Lifest in Oshkosh, Wisc., features the music of "Christian music's hottest acts with faith-filled messages."
The Appleton Post-Crescent
Pastor opens bookstore: Michael Cutler, pastor of Believers Christian Fellowship in Washburn, Ore., has opened New Believers Christian Bookstore in South Salem, Ore.
The Statesman Journal
Industry Radar for the week of June 30, 2010.
Clean comedian's 'devilish' humor: A “clean comedian with a bit of an edge,” Christian entertainer Tim Hawkins “does not shy away from an often devilish sense of humor.”
The Abilene Reporter-News
Brothers' coffee bar boost: Brothers Joshua and Josiah Williams' Book Brew Coffee business aims to “encourage customers to linger a little longer” at Christian bookstores.
The Enumclaw Courier-Herald
Artist challenges drink charge: “Painter of Light” Thomas Kinkade has pleaded not guilty to a misdemeanor charge of driving under the influence stemming from a traffic stop in Carmel, Calif.
The San Jose Mercury News
'Reluctant Christian' publishes memoir: A “celebrated” Christian ethicist, named "best theologian in America," Stanley Hauerwas is “a reluctant Christian” whose memoir, “Hannah's Child,” has just been released.
The (Raleigh, N.C.) News Observer
Christian Yatitles 'empowering': Young-adult novels from Christian publishers are “offering a surprisingly empowering guide to adolescence.”
Slate
Creation festival returns: Creation, the country's largest Christian music festival, returns to Mount Union, Pa., with “another lineup of the best Christian artists and speakers.”
Public Opinion
Industry Radar for the week of June 23, 2010.
Thomas Nelson takeover details: The acquisition of Thomas Nelson by private equity firm Kohlberg & Co., eliminates the majority of the company's long-term debt, which was acquired under its previous majority owner.
The Tennessean
Buyout 'excites' Nelson head: Thomas Nelson CEO Michael Hyatt is “very excited” about the company's purchase and “what this means for (its) future in the rapidly evolving publishing industry.”
The Nashville Post
More on Nelson purchase: InterMedia Partners LP has sold part of its stake in Thomas Nelson Inc., to Kohlberg & Co.
The Wall Street Journal
'Well-crafted' Christian movie: Inspirational movie,“The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry,” is “well crafted and shows that there is hope for the Christian movie genre.”
Bahama Islands Info
Religious toys under spotlight: Nikki Bado, an associate professor and director of religious studies at Iowa State University, discusses the proliferation of religious toys.
WOWT TV
Canadian writer honored: Shane Joseph’s “dystopian novel of hope,” “After the Flood” won in the Futuristic/Fantasy category at The Word Guild Canadian Christian Writing Awards.
Northumberland View
'Influential' Sherwood Pictures: Sherwood Pictures has produced “some of the most influential and popular Christian movies in the last decade.”
Catholic Online
'Faith' movies 'will morph': A “Variety” writer says that “the definition of faith movies will morph a bit – they'll become edgier and darker and more complex.”
The (London) Guardian
Writer challenges atheist brother: Though “they are not exactly Cain and Abel, theologically and philosophically” Christopher and Peter Hitchens—author of “The Rage Against God: How Atheism Led Me to Faith”--are “just as divided as the brothers of the Old Testament.”
Fox News
Artist's brush with law: Authorities say "Painter of Light" inspirational artist Thomas Kinkade spent a night in jail after being arrested on suspicion of drunken driving.
USA Today
Christian writers 'making waves': Christian writers in Northumberland, Ontario, are “starting to make waves on the national literary scene” in Canada.
The St. Thomas Times-Journal
Missouri LifeWay's grand opening: A grand opening is scheduled July 10 for the new LifeWay Christian Store in Cape Girardeau, Mo.
The Southeast Missourian'
Family Christian Store robbed: Police are seeking a man who stole money from Family Christian Store in Brandon, Fla., after threatening staff in a note he handed over the counter.
Fox News
Industry Radar for the week of June 16, 2010.
'Fireproof' follow-up 'personal': “Fireproof” makers Sherwood Pictures' fourth film, “Courageous,” is “personal” for many of the actors.
Christian Post
Coach Wooden 'greatest teacher': Coach John Wooden's death at 99 means the loss “of the great American men of the last century—one of our greatest teachers.”
Religion Dispatches
Author celebrates ark discovery: The author and producer of books and movies about the search for Noah’s ark said a recent discovery could “turn things upside down.”
The (Loveland, Colo.) Reporter-Herald
Book on 'Christian mantra': A documentary feature film and companion book from HarperOne out next year, “Mysteries of the Jesus Prayer,” will introduce the ancient “perfect meditation” that is “like a Christian mantra.”
The Huffington Post
Witness music festival returns: Superchick, John Waller, Building 429 and Natalie Grant were among the artists when free music festival Witness returned to Quarryville, Pa., after a year's absence.
The Lancaster New Era
Mardel family's Bible mission: The Christian business family whose interests include Mardel Christian Education & Supply “has been spending heavily to amass a collection (of ancient Bible texts) that has set dealers buzzing in the staid world of rare books.”
The New York Times
Industry Radar for the week of June 9, 2010.
Church opens discount store: Amazing Grace Christian Books in Pontiac, Ill., offering discounted titles, has been opened by Grace Episcopal Church.
The (Bloomington, Ill.) Pantagraph
Author-leader's future uncertain: Author Ergun Caner's future as President of Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary "may depend on which version of his past is closer to the truth."
Associated Press
Collapse impacts Christian store: A building collapse in Beaver Dam, Ky., blocks access to other local businesses--including Wanda Saling's The Christian Bookstore.
WBKO TV
'Courageous' movie update: Sherwood Pictures is filming "Courageous," its follow-up to the hit, "Fireproof," in just 35 days.
WALB TV
Industry Radar for the week of June 2, 2010.
'Preachy' Berenstain Bears series: A reviewer says Zondervan's faith-based Berenstain Bears series can be preachy, but "they don't beat you over the head with Jesus messages or anything."
The San Francisco Chronicle
Bluetree's brush with danger: Members of "God of this City" group Bluetree tell of a perilous ministry trip into Myanmar.
CNN
Jennifer Knapp's coming out: Jennifer Knapp writes about how embracing her gay identity impacted her life in Christian music.
CNN
'Stuff' writer on satire: Blogger and "Stuff Christians Like" author, Jon Acuff, discuss explains "why he believes satire is the new truth."
CNN
Catholic store profiled: Opened in 1993, Holy Family Supply, a Catholic bookstore, is profiled as a non-profit business.
The (Salem. Ore.) Statesman Journal
Sheila Walsh's 'prison' message: Author and singer Sheila Walsh: “Sometimes God will take you to a prison to set you free.”
The Bangor Daily News
Armed robber hits LifeWay: Police are looking for an armed robber who got away with cash after threatening a female clerk at the LifeWay Christian Store in Chattanooga, Tenn.
The Chattanoogan
Author's new TV initiative: Author Robert A. Schuller is co-leader of new Christian broadcast company ComStar Media, which plans to combine TV, radio and Web strategies in an initiative to launch this fall.
The Dallas Morning News
Church documentary 'fast-paced': Dan Merchant's documentary, “Lord, Save Us From Your Followers,” just released on DVD, is 'a witty, fast-paced film.”
The Toledo Blade
Industry Radar for the week of May 26, 2010.
A new-style store: Ed Weske has opened Common Ground, a discount Christian bookstore, in the location where he used to work for Kregel Parable Christian Stores, closed last year.
The Grand Rapids Press
Missionary debuts jungle fiction: Missionary Jonathan Williams' first novel, "Jungle Sunrise," is based on his experiences in the jungles of Peru.
The Dallas Morning News
The 'American Idol' factor: "American Idol" has been the launching pad for several Christian singers' careers because of the TV show's strong church connection.
The Los Angeles Times
Author reflects on 'Lost': As popular TV show 'Lost" ends, pastor Chris Seay, author of "The Gospel According to Lost," reflects on the spiritual value of the series.
The Miami Herald
Church bookstore plan rejected: A zoning board in North Scranton, N.J., has denied a pastor permission to open a bookstore at a former church site.
The (Scranton, N.J.) Times-Tribune
Booksigning features games: A Texas booksigning for Karen Witemeyer's historical romance, "A Tailor-Made Bride,” features games for children from the 1800s, the period in which the book is set.
The Abilene Reporter-News
Christian publisher's military presence: An article about faith-based programs at Fort Hood describes publisher The Navigators as "one of the largest and most influential of the fundamentalist Christian para-church military ministries currently ingrained in and operating unrestricted throughout the military."
The Huffington Post
Glo Bible's iPhone app: Immersion Digital's "Glo Bible" will soon be available on iPhones and iPads.
The Orlando Sentinel
Store features iconography exhibits: Diane Duncan Biebe's iconography is on display at Logos Bookstore in Kent, Ohio.
The Akron Beacon Journal
Author 'tackles tough issues': Author Keith Clemons "tackles tough issues in his Christian novels."
The Aiken Standard
West Coast music festival: Top names in Christian music perform at the Spirit West Coast festival in Del Mar, Calif., which includes sporting events and a film series.
The Del Mar Times
Jennifer Knapp's radio verdict: The effect singer Jennifer Knapp's coming out as gay will have "comes down to how radio and retail respond to the news."
Fox News
Evolution book builds bridges: Marine biologist Joel “Jody” Martin's “The Prism and the Rainbow: A Christian Explains Why Evolution is Not a Threat,” aims to "bridge the gap between science and culture and faith."
The (Agoura Hills, Calif.) Acorn
Romance features pastors' sermons: Catherine Stedway's debut Christian romance, "The Will to Wait," features sermons from local pastors.
The (Cookeville, Tenn.) Herald-Citizen
Knapp expected sales pass: Jennifer Knapp says that she knew her new release, "Letting Go," "isn't one that's going to be sold at Christian bookstores."
The Huffington Post
Industry Radar for the week of May 19, 2010.
Co-authors' Family visit: Local resident Greta Emling and co-author Phyllis K. Rumble Klenk sign copies of their book, “Wounded, Trapped, and Voiceless .. All things are Possible,” at Family Christian Book Store in Saginaw Township, Mich.
The Saginaw News
Bookkeeper's embezzlement charges: The former bookkeeper at a Christian bookstore in Athens, Ga., has been arrested on charges of embezzlement of around $40,000.
WSB TV
Publisher changes 'industry sign': The resignation of top officials for the Review and Herald Publishing Association of the Seventh-day Adventist Church is "a sign of the greater weakness in the religious publishing industry."
The Washington Times
Store expands Christian category: The new owner of Ageless Book Shoppe in Panama City, Fla., is expanding the long-time store's Christian section.
The News Herald
Sarah Palin's new book: Lynn Vincent, the co-author of Sarah Palin’s “Going Rogue,” which has sold more than 2 million copies, will not be involved in the new book from the former Vice Presidential candidate, “America By Heart: Reflections on Family, Faith and Flag."
The San Diego Union-Tribune
Author's past under scrutiny: Minister and author Ergun Caner, who has "made a career as a go-to authority on Islam for the evangelical world" is at the center of allegations that he fabricated or embellished his past.
The San Jose Mercury News
Zondervan's iPad kids focus: Children’s books will be a big focus of titles Zondervan releases for iPads.
The Grand Rapids Press
Bill Gaither's 'towering influence': Bill Gaither is "a towering influence in Christian music as an artist and... a pretty good talent scout."
The Lexington Herald-Leader
Keith Green biopic planned: The widow of singer Keith Green is working to make a movie version of her book about his life and ministry, "No Compromise."
The Daily News
Muslim testimony prompts 'firestorm': Author Ergun Caner's testimony of his Muslim background has "ignited a firestorm of controversy."
The Tennessean
Industry Radar for the week of May 12, 2010.
Musician 'opens for Jesus': John Michael Talbot "used to open for Janis Joplin. Now he opens for Jesus Christ, leading his fans in prayer and meditation through music."
The (Somerville, N.J.) Courier News
Burglar hits Christian store: Molly Hicklins, who runs Paxon Christian Book Store in Orfange Park, Fla., is praying for the burglar who targeted her store.
WXJT TV
Prize author's faith profiled: Award-winning Christian author Gina Ochsner's works, like "The Russian Dreambook of Color and Flight," come from "a life based in faith."
The Oregonan
Pastor-author 'culturally relevant': Pastor and author Craig Groeschel "delivers sermons on your typical Christian topics, but does so with a fresh and culturally relevant spin."
The Toledo Blade
Karen Kingsbury, mom-writer: Best-selling author Karen Kingsbury "likes to think of herself as a mom first, who just happens to have written more than 40 books."
The Birmingham News
Book helps globe's poor: Christian Book of the Year, "The Hole in Our Gospel," by Richard Stearns, "has inspired many Christians to re-evaluate their lives and help the poor around the world."
The Staten Island Advance
Ministry launches bookstore: Strong Tower Ministries in Emporia, Kansas, has opened a bookstore to help support the ministry and provide books to the public.
The Emporia Gazette
Industry Radar for the week of May 5, 2010.
Casting Crowns, fan favorites: Casting Crowns won the biggest of this year's Dove awards, the fan-voted artist of the year title.
Associated Press
Store's 'community mission': Truth Christian Store & Event Center in Plant City, Fla., is "kind of an area community mission site."
The Tampa Bay Tribune
Faith-based business guide: A guide for businesses looking to appeal to faith-based consumers warns that "they're going to look askance at a company that seems boastful."
Adweek
Christian music on the rise: More Christian music acts cracked Billboard's Top 25 last year than ever.
The Tennessean
Kate Gosselin's latest book: Kate Gosselin's new book "isn't exactly flying off the shelves," having reportedly sold just over 10,000 copies in the first two weeks.
US magazine
Author addresses 'Christian atheism': In his new book, Craig Groeschel describes "Christian atheism" as a "fast-spreading spiritual pandemic which can poison, sicken and even kill eternally.”
The Oklahoman
Stephen Baldwin's 'rescue fund': Actor and author Stephen Baldwin discusses a campaign to help him overcome financial challenges attributed in part to his bold stand in Hollywood for his Christian faith.
Pop Eater
Industry Radar for the week of April 28, 2010.
Campus shooting pastor's answers: Virginia Tech campus shooting pastor Jim Pace's "Should We Fire God?" addresses tough questions of faith in the light of tragedy.
WDJB TV
'Dukes' star plays 'Doonby': John Schneider, the Christian actor who made Bo Duke a TV staple during the early 1980s, will play a modern George Bailey in the forthcoming inspirational film, "Doonby."
The Hollywood Reporter
New ecumenical bookstore: Mary Jane Marks is owner of Christ Church Gift and Book Shop in Greenwich, Conn., an ecumenical store that serves Christians, Jews and Muslims.
Greenwich Time
Churches host speaker-authors: California churches looking for ways to draw visitors and give members fresh and often inspiring perspectives on faith, are turning to well-known names--including authors and artists--for help.
The Sacramento Bee
'Madea' maker 'knows audience': The key to the success of Tyler Perry, whose "Madea" and other movies have faith themes, is that "he understands his audience."
The Kansas City Star
Store celebrates new location: Brighter Life Bookshoppe Ltd. celebrates the first anniversary of its new downtown location in Galesburg, Ill., with a free lunch.
The (Galesburg, Ill.) Register-Mail
LifeWay fraud effort probed: Police in Sherman, Texas, are investigating an attempted forgery at the city's Lifeway Christian Store, where someone tried to pay with a fake $100 traveler's check.
KXII TV
Pastor's book 'labor of love': Pastor John Goyette's Destiny Image release, "The Power of Return," is "a labor of love and the culmination of over 30 years of ministry and study."
The Bennington (Vt.) Banner
Magazine for thinking Christians: "Books and Culture," a sister magazine to "Christianity Today," serves "in part, as a salutary source of affirmative action for Christian intellectuals."
The New York Times
Christians movies, 'unexpected pleasures': A critic believes that sometimes, Christian films "rise above the expected sentimentality to become unexpected pleasures."
The Mormon Times
Jennifer Knapp 'still believes': Former Christian recording artist Jennifer Knapp, who recently announced she is gay, tells Larry King she is "still a person of faith."
CNN
Christian film niche 'busy': The Christian film niche market is busy, "with dozens of active production companies bringing forth a stream of product."
Beck/Smith Hollywood
Author says utopianism 'evil': Author Os Guinness tells students that “utopianism is the greatest evil of all."
The Oklahoma Daily
John Ashcroft, film fan: Former Attorney General John Ashcroft sings the praises of "Letters to God."
Big Hollywood
Hollywood pursues 'Christian demographic': Major Hollywood studios have started to "tap into the Christian demographic."
Variety
Integrity's good Dove night: Integrity Music had a good night at the Gospel Music Association’s 41st annual Dove Awards, as artists associated with the Mobile-based company claimed eight trophies.
The Mobile Press-Register
Industry Radar for the week of April 21, 2010.
Zondervan layoffs in consolidation: Zondervan laid off 30 employees as part of a consolidation move.
The Grand Rapids Press
Author's 'easy' advice spotlighted: Judith Rolfs has authored more than a dozen books—most with "a practical, easy-to-understand, Christian focus on marriage and f a m i l y"—based on her experience as a wife, mother and counselor.
The Janesville Gazette
Larry Norman documentary debuts: A documentary about pioneer Christian rock singer Larry Norman, "Fallen Angel: the Outlaw Larry Norman," is screened after a year of legal delays, in the singer's family tried to block its release.
The Tennessean
Author's 50-city tour: Young adult author Bryan Davis is making a 50-city book tour in support of his new title, "Starlighter."
The Pensecola News Journal
Theater run movie appeal: "Letters to God" director has appealed for help in keeping the inspirational movie in theaters.
The Underground
Kathy Macias' busy year: In addition to five new books releasing this year, author Kathy Macias is also launching a radio show with a fellow artist, going on book tours, keeping up a blog, and continuing a weekly devotional.
The Valley Chronicle
Oak Ridge Boys honored: The Oak Ridge Boys are honored by the Southern Gospel Music Guild.
The Tennessean
Industry Radar for the week of April 14, 2010.
'God films' make money: "God" films like "Letters to God" help "bring in the almighty dollar."
Fox News
End-times movies applauded: End-times films from the 1970s like "A Thief in the Night," spotlighted in a screening series in Chicago, "clearly fulfill the evangelical goals of the filmmakers, they also stand up as taut, extremely well-crafted entertainment."
Time Out Chicago
Legacy of 'The Passion': Mel Gibson's successful "The Passion of The Christ" has "spawned a small new genre called the 'Christian Movie'."
Eclipse
'Shack' success 'a God thing': The success of 'The Shack'--with more than 12 million copies sold to date--is "absolutely a God thing," says author William P. Young.
The Toledo Blade
Born-again 'Napoleon Dynamite': David A.R. White's forthcoming “Holyman Undercover” is "the Napoleon Dynamite of Christian movies."
The Paragould Daily Press
Letters' movie is non-Hollywood: “Letters to God” is "a serious film... that would never be made by a traditional Hollywood studio."
The (Troy, N.Y.) Record
Canadian writers conference: Bonnie Grove, whose novel, "Time and Time Again," releases from David C. Cook Publishing later this year, is one of the presenters at a conference hosted by the Saskatoon Christian writers' group, His Imprint.
The Star Phoenix
Joyce Meyer, rock star?: Joyce Meyer, "as close as it gets to being a Christian rock star," releases her 80th title.
ABC News
Jennifer Knapp's gay revelation: After several years silence, Jennifer Knapp returns to music and reveals she is gay.
The Washington Post
Industry Radar for the week of April 7, 2010.
Christian pop culture explored: Daniel Radosh's "Rapture Ready!" is "not only the smartest exploration of Christian pop culture that I've ever come across; it's one of the wisest explorations of American pop culture in general."
NPR
Christian movie tie-ins: The makers of the new movie, “Letters to God,” supported by a range of tie-in resources, hope that it "will offer hope and encouragement to individuals and families who face these heartbreaking struggles."
The Underground
Anne Graham Lotz: Christian writer Anne Graham Lotz's "many books stress that a personal relationship with Jesus is the only way to eternal life."
USA Today
Inspirational fiction award finalist: Historical fiction writer Julie Klassen's Bethany House title, "The Silent Governess,” is a finalist for the annual Minnesota Book Award.
The Shoreview Press
Author on 'Jesus question': In an Easter week commentary, author of "The Jesus Question," Brian McLaren, asks whether "Christians (have) gained any new understandings of Christ crucified and Christ risen?"
The Washington Post
Christian 'stuff' writer's 'honesty': In his satirical book, "Stuff Christians Like," Jonathon Acuff, "speaks in an honest and whimsical tone. His writing is refreshing and engaging in its humility and self-deprecation."
The (St. Louis, Mo.) Post-Dispatch
Second store's 'faith step': As Mindy Uitermarkt opens her Christian bookstore, Stepping Stones, in Marshalltown, Iowa, she sees it "not as the opening of a business, but a step in her journey of faith."
The (Marshalltown, Iowa) Times-Republican
Zondervan's iPad titles: Zondervan, the country's largest Christian-book publisher, is releasing more than 1,000 titles for the new iPad, from a translation of the Bible to "The Purpose Driven Life.”
The Grand Rapids Press
Store hosts piano studio: Kings Christian Bookstore in Des Moines, Iowa hosts Diana Helmer's piano lesson studio.
The Des Moines Register
Amy Grant's new music: "Somewhere Down The Road" is Amy Grant's first album of (mostly) new music in more than half a decade.
The Tennessean
Movie 'raises the bar': Based on a true story, "Letters to God" is attempting to "raise the bar" in the standard of Christian movies.
Big Hollywood
Family grief inspires film: New inspirational movie "Letters to God" began with co-writer and co-director Patrick Doughtie trying to channel his grief over son Tyler's death from brain cancer at the age of nine.
The Orlando Sentinel
Industry Radar for the week of March 31, 2010.
Faith and the environment: A new generation of evangelicals, including several authors, is "making a spirited effort to show that their religious beliefs and their environmental concerns are not only compatible but inextricably linked."
Christian Science Monitor
Kingsbury movie premiere: The 18th annual Merrimack Valley Christian Film Festival this year includes the premiere of "Like Dandelion Dust," based on the Karen Kingsbury novel.
The (North Andover, Mass.) Eagle-Tribune
CBA's new leader: CBA has announced it is moving from a president and CEO model to an executive director model and that Curtis Riskey has been appointed to the position.
Trade Show Week
Writers on the Sabbath: A number of Christian writers "are exploring practices that might honor Sunday as sacred time."
Slate
'Amish Grace' lessons: The authors of "Amish Grace," made into a TV movie, discuss their book and the lessons from "a community that valued forgiveness and reconciliation so highly."
The Washington Post
Bereaved family's book signing: The family of the late Billy Joe Daugherty held a signing for his last book, "360° Life: Ten Ways you Can Live More Richly, Deeply, Fully," at Mardel Christian and Education in Tulsa, Ok., where he was a minister.
KOTV
Debating who Jesus is: Author Brian McLaren is at the center of "something of a dust-up among evangelicals over core beliefs about who Jesus was and whether he is the only way to salvation."
NPR
Owner opens second store: Fran Cantwell, owner of a Christian bookstore in Johnstown, N.J., has opened a second location, in Newark, N.J., with the help of daughter-in-law, Amanda Cantwell.
The Newark Advocate
Annual writers conference: Speaker, writer, publicist and former Christian bookstore owner Twila Belk is director of the 7th annual Quad-City Christian Writers' Conference, set for April 9-10 in Eldridge, Iowa.
The Quad City Times
Long-time store owner dies: Manager and later owner of the former Gospel Bible Book Store in San Diego, Calif., for more than 40 years, Harlan Linscheid has died, aged 87.
The San Diego Union-Tribune
Hollywood and God: "X-men" and other film producer Ralph Winter: "I don’t think it’s any different in Hollywood to be a Christian than it is to be an investment banker on Wall Street... we all face the same struggles.”
The Herald Bulletin
'Extreme music' book releases: As "extreme Christian music" moves "from the dusty back bins of the Christian bookstores to the front racks at super retailers," a new book, "Metal Missionaries" looks at the bands that are combining faith with a fierce sound.
Blabbermouth.net
Artist unveils resurrection mural: Award-winning artist Ron DiCianni is offering a preview of his huge new mural of the resurrection—commissioned for the Museum of Biblical Art in Dallas—at his studio in Temecula, Calif.
The Valley News
Industry Radar for the week of March 24, 2010.
'Donuts' premiere supports theater: The premiere of Christian movie, "Angels Love Donuts," will help support an historic theater and two student scholarship funds.
The Dallas Morning News
3-D Genesis movie planned: "In the Beginning," an "eye-popping" 3-D movie retelling of the world’s creation as depicted in the Bible, is to be directed by David Cunningham, son of Youth With A Mission founder Loren Cunningham.
New York Magazine
James Dobson' an entrepreneur': Author and broadcaster James Dobson "should also be known as a successful entrepreneur."
The (Colorado Springs, Colo.) Gazette
Parental forgiveness inspires book: A couple's forgiveness of their son's killer inspires a pastore to write a book about "Six Stages of Forgiving Others."
The Herald-Palladium
'Picture Bible' developer dies: Dr. C. Elvan Olmstead, who developed "The Picture Bible" during the early 1950s while working at David C. Cook, has died aged 95.
The (Elgin, Ill.) Courier-News
Drew Brees' Tyndale memoir: New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees talks about his forthcoming Tyndale House Publishers book, "Coming Back Stronger: Unleashing the Hidden Power of Adversity."
The Daily Comet
G.K. Chesterton rediscovered: There is revived interest in G.K. Chesterton’s works, "especially among Christians, with study groups cropping up around the country."
The (Worcester, Mass.) Telegram
Logo 'fair use' debated: Retailers have differing opinions about whether using a company's logo to express a Christian sentiment would be considered "fair use."
The Naperville Sun
Philip Jenkins' new book: Religious studies scholar Philip Jenkins' latest book, "Jesus Wars: How Four Patriarchs, Three Queens, and Two Emperors Decided What Christians Would Believe for the Next 1,500 Years," documents "the history of how powerful religious and state leaders feuded over the church's position on Christ's human nature."
Penn State Live
'Feel good' book coming: New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Bree' forthcoming “Coming Back Stronger: Unleashing the Hidden Power of Adversity” (Tyndale House Publishers) "may turn out to be the feel-good story of the year."
The Norwich Bulletin
Writing pair discusses book: Mother-and-daughter writing team Cheri Fuller and Alison Plum discuss their Multnomah book, "Mother-Daughter Duet: Getting to the Relationship You Want With Your Adult Daughter.”
The Oklahoman
Store soup gets praise: Covenant Books and Coffee, a Christian bookstore in Honolulu, Hawaii, gets a thumbs-up for its "ever-changing" soup of the day.
The Honolulu Weekly
Supplier adjusts gift prices: Gift company P. Graham Dunn has adjusted its price points to weather the economic downturn.
The Akron Beacon Journal
Movie on Colombia ministry: Brent Green, son of Mardel founder Mart Green, has made a movie, "In Your Hands," about church leaders in Colombia threatened by gang leaders.
The Oklahoman
Industry Radar for the week of March 17, 2010.
Tyndale artist's 'expressive' work: Tyndale House Publishers graphic designer Tim Bott describes his art as "expressive calligraphy. In other words, he uses his talents to express the meaning of words."
Suburban Life
Beer book meets resistance: Stephen Mansfield's Thomas Nelson book, "The Search for God and Guinness: A Biography of the Beer that Changed the World," has "met some resistance from Christian retailers."
The Tennessean
Store hosts school planning: Arrowhead Parable Christian Bookstore in Johnson City, N.Y., hosts a meeting for a proposed classical Christian school.
The Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin
Ex-Muslim book signing: Former Muslim Brotherhood member Kamal Saleem is to sign copies of his "Blood of Lambs" (Simon & Schuster) at The Salt Shaker in Wilmington, N.C.
The Wilmington Star News
Store sponsors Palin speech: Local Christian bookstore Garden of Read'n' is helping sponsor a visit and speech by Sarah Palin to raise money for Teen Challenge Montana, in Missoula, Mont.
The Missoulian
Bethany author's home office: Bethany House author Patti Hill tells about her "garden" office.
The (Grand Junction, Colo.) Daily Sentinel
Music leader on changing market: Former Word music label head Jim Van Hook discusses the changing music market.
The (Memphis) Daily News
Big Daddy Weave's message: The members of Big Daddy Weave came together in college "to serve a higher purpose and share a message through music."
The Marietta Times
Floating Christian bookstore: Currently in the Bahamas, the Christian-manned Logos Hope is the largest floating bookstore at sea.
The Tribune
'Biblical themes' in movies: Though "apocalyptic angels and satanic shadows are creeping back on to cinema screens," the trend is not surprising because "biblical themes have only ever been one global crisis away."
The (London) Guardian
Muslim outreach debate: Author and former Muslim Ergun Caner is at the center of a row over the "Camel" method of sharing the gospel with followers of Islam.
The New York Times
Romance 'wrestles' love, faith: Deborah Brodie describes her first Christian romance novel, “In His Love," as "a romance wrestling between love and religion."
The Walton Sun
New store's family neighbor: Mike Robeck's Disciple's Corner Christian bookstore in Rapid City, Iowa, will open soon next door to his wife's fashion boutique.
The Rapid City Journal
Industry Radar for the week of March 10, 2010.
Hamas memoir 'refreshing': Mosab Hassan Youseff's "Son of Hamas" memoir (Tyndale House Publishers), about being groomed to take over leadership of the Palestinian group, offers "a refreshing change from the sound bites and vitriol heard over and over for generations."
The Washington Post
Devotional author's book signings: Devotional author Joanna Pollack Shumaker of Wilkes-Barre, Pa., signs her new book, "Renewing Your Spirit," at two local Christian bookstores.
The Abington Journal
Hamas author acknowledges 'doubts: "Son of Hamas" author Mosab Hassan Youseff acknowledges "some people will doubt" his account of spying for Israel while a member of the Palestinian organization.
Associated Press
'Blind Side' is best: "The Blind Side" has been named most spiritual film of the year by a group of online readers.
The East Valley Tribune
New LifeWay in Missouri: LifeWay Christian Stores opens an outlet in Cape Girardeau, Mo.
The Southeast Missourian
Hamas story 'shock, intrigue': The "startling journey" of the eldest son of a Hamas leader, a Christian convert, and former Israeli spy, detailed in "Son of Hamas," has "shocked, angered, and intrigued."
BBC
Mormon books 'sea change': A Mormon columnist finds "a sea change of sorts" in evangelical books about the Latter Day Saints, noting they take "a more elevated tone."
The Mormon Times
Book's 'Middle East ripples': Former Hamas member Mosab Hassan Yousef's story of becoming a Christian and spying for Israel, told in "Son of Hamas," has "sent ripples through the Middle East."
The Wall Street Journal
Digital publishing's 'double business': Developing digital editions of books is "like running two businesses," says Paul Mikos of LifeWay Christian Resources' B&H Publishing Group.
The Tennessean
Faith-based film focus: Movies like "The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry" present "an opportunity for Christians to vote with their feet, showing theater owners there is a marketable audience for faith-based films."
The California Chronicle
Joel Osteen profiled: Megachurch pastor and author Joel Osteen is "the new face of Christianity."
The (London) Guardian
Chick tract criticized: California-based Chick Publications' "The Death Cookie" tract has been criticized for being anti-Catholic.
The Knoxville News Sentinel
Inspirational films' 'difficult subjects': "Letters to God" is one of the latest movies "marketed to and finding acceptance from Christian audiences despite difficult subject matters."
The California Chronicle
Veteran musician Nancy Honeytree: After more than 35 years, singer Nancy Honeytree "remains on the cutting edge of contemporary Christian music."
(Hendersonville, N.C.) Times-News
Industry Radar for the week of March 3, 2010.
LifeWay donates prison Bibles: Lifeway Christian Bookstore in Meridian, Miss., has donated more than 150 Bibles for inmates at a local jail. The copies have all been purchased by customers as part of a special campaign.
WTOK TV
Attorney author's forgiveness message: Prominent Dallas attorney James David Jordan has earned his place as writer with the release of three B&H Publishing suspense novels that address the issue of forgiveness.
The Telegraph
Tyndale House's Hamas memoir: In his Tyndale House Publishers memoir, "Son of Hamas," the son of one of the organization's founders says he served as a top informant for Israel for more than a decade.
The Washington Post
Start-up gifts success: Though Hold That Thought inspirational gift company founder Kim Humphries recognizes she probably could not have started a new business in a worse economic climate, she is pleased with how things are going.
The Decatur Daily
Christian movies see success: The Christian movie industry–a sizable niche market–"has seen recent box-office success with low-budget family dramas."
The (Toronto) Globe and Mail
Author Shane Claiborne's sincerity: Author and speaker Shane Claiborne "attempts to approach his audiences with sincerity and cut straight to the point."
The Lariat Online
'Biggest Loser' contestant's faith: "The Biggest Loser" Season 4 runner-up Julie Hadden tells how participating in the reality TV show strengthened her Christian walk in "Fat Chance: Losing the Weight, Gaining My Worth" (GuidepostsBooks).
Scientist's faith riles colleagues: National Institutes of Health Director Francis Collins is again riling some scientists by publicly sharing his religious beliefs in a new book, "Belief: Readings on the Reason for Faith" (HarperCollins).
Science
Dr. Dobson says farewell: A listening audience of an 200 million was expected for author and Focus on the family founder James Dobson's final turn as host of the “Focus on the Family” radio show.
The Gazette
Actor-author marriage conferences: Actor Kirk Cameron and musician Warren Barfield have teamed up to present Love Worth Fighting For marriage conferences.
The (Lexington, Ky.) Herald-Leader
Bookstore worker's faith research: A Christian bookstore worker helps the Cancer Research Center of the University of South Carolina investigate the role of faith in healing sick or injured people.
The State
'Thriving on criticism': A commentator observes that "no one is better at criticizing Christians than Christians themselves. The Christian publishing industry thrives on it."
The (St. Louis, Mo.) Post-Dispatch
Industry Radar for the week of February 24, 2010.
'Finest Christian bookstore': Author William R. Forstchen speaks at the Salt Shaker in Wilmington, N.C., "one of the area’s finest Christian bookstores."
The Wilmington Star News
Controversy over store signing: The Catholic Information Center in Washington, D.C., has been criticized for hosting a book signing for TV commentator Cokie Roberts, "a notorious dissenter against Catholic moral teaching on abortion, birth control and homosexuality."
The Washington Times
'Senseless' Winter Jam tour: NewSong's popular Winter Jam tour—this year including Newsboys and Third Day in the line-up—is "one of those things that makes no sense financially."
The Tennessean
Store opening 'absolutely nuts': When Aaron Walters and a friend decided to open a Christian bookstore in Knoxville, Tenn., in the middle of the recession, "most people looked at us like we were absolutely nuts."
WVLT TV
Bookstore rezoning appeal heard: Mansfield City Council is considering rezoning to permit a woman to open a religious bookstore on a residential street in the Ohio town.
The Mansfield News Journal
'Best movie since "Fireproof"': "Preacher's Kid," a contemporary retelling of the story of the Prodigal Son, "is easily the best Christian drama since 'Fireproof.'"
The (Louisville, Ky.) Courier-Journal
Dove awards 'celebrate others': Christian music's annual Dove awards are "less about competition and more about celebrating each other's work," says 2009 Vocalist of the Year Brandon Heath.
The Tennessean
Music of Foolish grace: For rock band Rush of Fools, "grace is what it's all about."
The Marion Star
Consumers 'turning to faith': Susan Johnson, owner of The Mustard Seed Catholic Store in Rapid City, S.D., says that "people are really turning toward something to hold on to. People are turning toward their faith."
The Rapid City Journal
Store offers Hebrew classes: Christian radio station WPFR, in partnership with The Open Door Christian Book Store in Terre Haute, Ind., has linked with local Senior Education Ministries Inc. and Christian radio station WPFR to offer Biblical Hebrew for Beginners classes.
The (Terre Haute, Ind.) Tribune
Empty-nesters' 'helpful tome': Janice Hanna and Kathleen Y'Barbo, authors of "The House is Quiet, Now What?" (Barbour Publishing), know that territory and have written "a helpful tome to orient moms just embarking on the empty-nest years."
The Daily Journal
'No Greater Love' tops: According to Amazon.COM, Christian romance, 'No Greater Love,' has claimed the No. 1 Hot New DVD best-seller position in both its Religious and Family Life drama categories.
The Montgomery Advertiser
Hugging Beth Moore: Many of the hundreds who turned out at Family Christian Store in Fultondale, Ala., for a book signing by Beth Moore "received not only a signature, but a hug from the author."
The North Jefferson News
Industry Radar for the week of February 17, 2010.
'Christian movies are hardest': The maker of the new animated Christian DVD, "At Jesus' Side," says that "Christian film is the hardest of all. There are so many issues with dogma."
Arizona Daily Star
Kate Gosselin's new book: Kate Gosselin's forthcoming "I Just Want You to Know," scheduled for release in April by Zondervan, will feature excerpts, prayers and memories from her journal during the three years her family went from obscurity to fame on TLC's "Jon & Kate Plus 8."
The Minneapolis Star Tribune
More on Kate Gosselin: Six months after Zondervan put on hold TV reality star Kate Gosselin's planned cookbook, following the announcement of her divorce, the publisher says it will release her latest book, "I Just Want You to Know."
The Grand Rapids Press
Store supports community outreach: The Mustard Seed, a new Christian bookstore and nondenominational outreach center in Aubrey, Texas, offers new and used books, greeting cards, framed art, gifts and other items for sale to support the second component of the project—community outreach.
The Denton Record-Chronicle
Parable head consolidates business: Parable Group chief executive Steve Potratz is consolidating his own operations by moving from two downtown locations in San Luis Obispo and Atascadero, Calif., to a single shop.
The (San Luis Obispo, Calif.) Tribune
Store back business drive: The Christian Bookstore in Roanoke Rapids, N.C., is supporting a "Spend $20 on the 20th" campaign to boost the local economy by encouraging local shoppers to spend that much extra on the day at area businesses.
The (Roanoke Rapids, N.C.) Daily Herald
Harvest House founder dies: Harvest House Publishers founder Bob Hawkins Sr., who has died aged 87, owned and ran two Christian bookstores before going into publishing.
The (Eugene, Ore.) Register-Guard
DC Talk reunion 'possible': TobyMac says of his former dcTalk trio that "some kind of a reunion tour... is absolutely possible."
Reuters
Berenstain Bears' Haiti help: Michael Berenstain, creator of Zondervan's new faith-based series featuring the popular Berenstain Bears characters, autographs copies of the books to raise money for Haiti relief projects.
The (Phildelphia) Intelligencer
Store supports arson help: Non-profit Christian book store The Scroll in Tyler, Texas, is helping with an effort to provide replacement books for pastors whose churches have been burned in a string of arson attacks.
KSBW TV
Industry Radar for the week of February 10, 2010.
No 'cheesy Christian movie': Teen drama "To Save a Life" is not another "cheesy Christian movie."
The (Fairbanks, Alaska) Daily News-Miner
Store owner's bis business: Brett Smith, co-owner of Living Word Parable Christian Store franchise serving southwest Wisconsin, is also head of U.S. operations for major international power sports supplier.
Dealer News
Anti-faith film bias: The main reason faith-friendly films are generally overlooked is "plain lack of interest on the part of (mainly left-wing, liberal) executives, writers, film-makers and actors who would rather not go there."
Screen Daily
'The Shack' a 'miracle': In today's book market, "some might behold the huge success of William Paul Young's evangelical Christian novel, 'The Shack', as something of a miracle."
The Chronicle of Higher Education
Gilbert Morris, the author-nator: Author Gilbert Morris has written 224 books in 18 years.
The (Mobile, Ala.) Press-Register
Christian films break ground: Two new Christian-themed movies "establish new standards for frankness in a genre maligned for whitewashing reality."
The Orlando Sentinel
Emergent author's views: Brian McLaren, best known for his "A New Kind of Christian" book trilogy, believes that "every branch of Christianity has something to teach the other branches."
The North County Times
Beth Moore's cultural concerns: Bible teacher Beth Moore, whose latest book is "So Long, Insecurity," laments that "we became an image-driven society."
The Birmingham News
Industry Radar for the week of February 4, 2010.
'Christian films getting better': They're not setting the world on fire yet, "but Christian-themed films produced by churches are getting better."
The Omaha World-Herald
Free digital Christian books: Zondervan has been giving readers the opportunity to download two of Christian thriller writer Terri Blackstock's books free to the Kindle or to Kindle apps on their iPhone.
The New York Times
Unity 'key to survival': The head of Bible Society in the U.K. says Christians need to work on improving their relationships with one another "if the Christian publishing industry is to survive."
Christian Today
'Secrets' movie an encouragement: Rich Christiano, maker of the movie, "The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry," believes that it can "encourage a lot of people during difficult times."
The Garner Citizen
Damaged store to re-open: The Christian Book and Gift Shop in Rochester, Minn., hopes to reopen soon, after a roof collapse damaged thousands of dollars of inventory.
KAAL TV
'Facebook church' author profiled: In his David C. Cook book "The Church of Facebook," Jesse Rice writes about the impact of social media "in an engaging voice and with a sense of humor."
The Oregonian
Bookstore, hate crime target: A Christian bookstore in Snoqualmie, Wash., was one of several buildings including a church targeted during a month-long hate crime spree.
The Seattle Post-Intelligencer
Horse author's store signing: Larry Killam has a book signing for his "Horse Tales" children's series at Words of Life Christian Books and Gifts.
The (Canon City, Colo.) Daily Record
Gayle Haggard discusses book: Gayle Haggard, author of "Why I Stayed," discusses the new life she has with husband Ted, the disgraced former president of the National Association of Evangelicals.
The Gazette
E-book reader choice 'good': Having a wide range of e-book readers is "nothing but good news," according to Michael Hyatt, the CEO of Thomas Nelson.
NPR
Ten-gallon customer service: Customer service at The Greatest Gift and Scripture Supply in Pueblo, Calif., means offering imprinting on "everything from Bibles to 10-gallon hats."
The Pueblo Chieftain
'Effective' faith-based film: "To Save a Life" is "especially effective as a faith-based story, because it shows Christians are not perfect."
The Athens Banner Herald
Movie quality is rising: There has been "a steady rise in the quality of Christian filmmaking over the last few years."
The Toledo Blade
'No average teen movie': "To Save A Life" is "not your average teen movie."
The Prattville Progress
Bookstore owner's faith remembered: Heart transplant patient and Christian bookstore owner Tim Nichols is remembered for his faith.
The (Rochester, Minn.) Post-Bulletin
Industry Radar for the week of January 27, 2010.
Teen drama's positive message: Christian teen drama "To Save a Life" offers "a far more positive message for kids than even those teen comedies that end with a moral."
MTV
A message of forgiveness: Gayle Haggard's new book, "Why I Stayed," explains that she chose to forgive her husband—former National Association of Evangelicals president Ted Haggard, who stepped down after admitting immorality--"because that's what Christians do."
NPR
Haggard memoir's early sale: Gayle Haggard's Tyndale House memoir, "Why I Stayed," has gone on sale ahead of its official release date.
The Denver Post
'In His Steps' updated: Retired journalist David Heeren has updated Charles Sheldon's 1896 classic, "In His Steps," as "In His Steps Again," setting the story in 21st century Florida.
The Orlando Sentinel
Musician's 'Christian culture' concern: Seabird co-founder Ryan Morgan is uncomfortable with "the 'Christian' culture, with Christian bookstores and Christian music."
The Daily Times
'Smug-free' film applauded: The "one real strength" of “To Save A Life” is that "it doesn’t portray its Christian characters as smugly having all the answers."
The Capital Times
Bookstore owner harassed: A man has been arrested for making harassing phone calls to the owner of a Christian bookstore in Lewisburg, Pa.
The Daily Item
Film's 'message for generations': "To Save a Life" is "a message for generations, not just for teens."
The (New Lenox, Ill.) Patriot
Faith-based movie trend: The story behind "the latest in a trend of faith-based films--small-budget, independently financed and produced films marketed almost exclusively to Christian audiences."
The Patriot-News
Popular children's author profiled: "Little Visits With Jesus" author Mary Manz Simon has sold more than 3 million books and has more than 40 titles in print to her name.
The Capital
Christian bookstore roof collapse: The Christian Book and Gift Shop in Rochester, Minn., was evacuated after a section of the roof collapsed over the gift section.
The (Rochester, Minn.) News-Bulletin
Cave-in damages inventory: Four employees at a Christian bookstore in Rochester, Minn., escaped uninjured when the ceiling collapsed, causing thousands of dollars of damage to merchandise.
KAAL TV
Bad weather hurts store: A build-up of snow and water caused trusses to break, bringing down the roof at a Christian bookstore in Rochester, Minn.
KAAL TV
New movie's Christian 'buzz': New movie out "To Save a Life" is "getting a lot of buzz in the Christian community."
KOSA TV
Big discounts 'threaten stores': Christian retailers believe that extreme discounts by big-box stores are illegal and could drive them out of business.
The Tennessean
'Much better' Christian movie: "To Save a Life" is "heads and shoulders above" most faith-based films.
The Orlando Sentinel
Industry Radar for the week of January 20, 2010.
Christian bookstore rezoning denied: Linda Price has been denied permission to rezone her home as a Christian bookstore by the local planning commission in Mansfield, Ohio.
WMFD TV
CBD keeps additional space: Christian Book Distributors will continue to rent additional warehouse space in Peabody, Mass., despite the building's $8 million sale.
The Salem News
Movie breaks the mold: Christian films are "sometimes like eating your vegetables--they’re good for you but not too tasty. But 'To Save a Life' is breaking that stereotype."
The Cadillac News
No B-type movie: "To Save A Life" is "not your typical B type Christian movie."
The Clovis News Journal
'Revelation Song' surprise: Phillips, Craig and Dean's “Revelation Song,” was not only the trio's biggest hit to date, but one of the biggest hits on Christian radio in all of 2009 that "took a lot of people by surprise."
The Springfield News-Sun
U.K. move strengthens industry: John Ritchie Ltd.'s purchase of IBS-STL distributors in the U.K. "will ultimately support and strengthen the Christian book trade" there.
The Kilmarnock Standard
Pastor's comic book campaign: A Central Florida pastor has teamed up with former Marvel and DC Comics artists and writers to create comic books with themes from the Bible.
The Orlando Sentinel
'Better-made Christian films': With the success of “Fireproof” and “Facing the Giants,” "increasingly better-made Christian films have carved a larger niche in the movie market, especially when released directly to DVD and sold in Christian bookstores."
The Courier News
Movie character's real faith: A new book, "Against All Odds," tells the true story of the Christian faith of the FBI mole portrayed by Matt Damon in "The Informant!"
The (Decatur, Ill.) Herald-Review
James Dobson's 'extradordinary' move: Focus on the Family founder and best-selling author James Dobson's decision to start a new radio broadcast with his son, Ryan, is "extraordinary."
The New York Times
Non-profit move saves: Turning into a non-profit has helped Living Water, a Christian bookstore in Bay City, Mich., for more than 30 years, stay in business.
The Bay City Times
Film addresses teen issues: The independent Christian movie, "To Save a Life," opening in hundreds of theaters nationwide on Friday, addresses real-life issues teens face.
The Toledo Blade
Jesus is no add-on': Casting Crowns leader Mark Hall says that "Jesus isn’t just life enhancement, he is life."
The Norwich Bulletin
Good thoughts' drama debuts: "To Save a Life" star Randy Wayne says viewers will not be able to "leave the theater without thinking good thoughts.”
The Oklahoman
Industry Radar for the week of January 13, 2010.
Bible thefts increase: Thefts of Bibles have increased at Noah's Ark Christian Bookstore in San Antonio, reports manager Maria Obregon.
WOAI TV
Classic reprint avoids offense: Conservative Netherlands-based Christian publisher WordBridge Publishing, has reprinted a Joseph Conrad classic book as "The N-word of the Narcissus," in order to "protect the public’s delicate sensibilities."
Quill & Quire
Publisher axes retirement plan: Falling book sales are part of the reason for the Minneapolis-based publishing house of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's decision to end a traditional retirement plan for current employees and retirees.
The Twin Cities Pioneer Press
Threatened U.K. stores safe?: There are hopes that some of the 26 Wesley Owen bookstores in the U.K. not bought in last month's sell-off by IBS-STL UK may yet find new owners.
The Bookseller
Frontliner nominated for care: Kristi Kitzmiller works at Brookhaven Christian Bookstore in London, where she "routinely helps those down on their luck," is one of 12 nominees for the annual Tri-County Woman of the Year award.
The (Corbin, Ky.) Times-Tribune
City center store closes: The last remaining city center Christian bookstore in Nottingham, England, is closed following IBS-STL UK's decision to sell off its Wesley Owen chain.
This Is Nottingham (England)
Industry Radar for the week of January 6, 2010.
The 'Knowing God' story: Theologian and author J.I. Packer on the motivation for his best-selling 1973 title, "Knowing God."
The Washington Post
Assessing religious video games: Video games with heavy religious content "are usually fringe projects, independently created and oftentimes sporting dodgy production values, because publishers wisely don't want to risk boycotts from legions of the faithful."
Ars Technica
Religious games' 'big business': Religious toys and games "may be a niche market, but it’s big business nonetheless: MarketResearch estimated a $6 billion-plus market for religious publishing and products in the U.S."
Religion News Service
'Bible finance' books critiqued: A critic of some Bible-based financial guides believes there is a danger that Scripture's "greatness can be diminished if it comes to be viewed as a sort of financial fix-it book for helping people manage personal finances."
The Tennessean
Olive Branch to close: Barry and Connie Colyer are to close The Olive Branch in Corning, N.Y., after almost 30 years.
The (Corning, N.Y.) Reader
Movies as missions: Christian movies as a missionary strategy were on the agenda at the tri-annual Urbana student missions conference.
The California Chronicle
Vicki Courtney's 'magabooks': At a time when the publishing industry has been struggling, Vicki Courtney has created popular magazine-book hybrids called magabooks and other material geared toward teenage Christian girls.
The (Austin) Statesman
Pittsburgh's Christian fiction: Though "Pittsburgh has rarely played the Muse to the literary imagination," the area has inspired a number of recent books—including three Christian titles.
The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Janet Paschal, anti-superstar: Singer and author Janet Paschal "hates the idea of being a superstar... she'd much rather be a friend."
The (Fort Myers, Fla.) News-Press
The Letter Black's background: Upcoming Christian rock band The Letter Black started out as a praise and worship group at a local church.
The Pittsburg Morning Sun
'Resurrected' store update: The resurrection of Hoerr’s Berean Bookstore in Decatur, Ill., was achieved six months ago, but the owners say it’s taking a while to spread the good news.
The (Decatur, Ill.) Herald-Review
Author Donald Miller's 'brokenness': Part of 'Blue Like Jazz' author Donald Miller’s appeal—and what has made the book so successful—is his “brokenness,” says a friend and theology professor.
Religion News Service
Future 'Narnia' movie doubts: Considering "some of the weird remarks uttered by directors and producers of the first two films--'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe' in 2005 and 'Prince Caspian' in 2008--one wonders whether the will and determination exist to finish the seven-part Narnia series."
The Washington Times
From punk to Jesus: German punk pioneer and "scandal queen" Nina Hagen is writing a book about Jesus, "Confessions: My Path to God," to be released in March.
Agence France-Presse