Previously a publicist at WaterBrook Multnomah for four years, Johnson has worked with many high-profile authors such as Randy Alcorn, Cindy Woodsmall and Liz Curtis Higgs. She will be working on the marketing for Lucado's next book, Outlive Your Life: You Were Made to Make a Difference, releasing in September from Nelson.

"We look forward to utilizing Liz's creative flair, flexibility and attention to detail to benefit both the Thomas Nelson and Lucado team," said David Schroeder, senior director of marketing at Nelson. "She has the unique experience of being on both sides of publishing, as an author and a marketer. That experience in invaluable."

Johnson recently wrote the novel, The Kidnapping of Kenzie Thorn (Steeple Hill). Her next novel, Vanishing Act (Steeple Hill), is scheduled to release in August.

June products and more can be found in Christian Retailing's new releases listings online.

Released last month, the novel follows the adventures of Mikalatos, a Portland, Ore., staff member with Campus Crusade for Christ (CCC), on his quest to find the real Jesus among dozens of imposters. Christian researcher George Barna is a character in the novel, released under Tyndale's BarnaBooks imprint.

CCC will place special-edition copies of Imaginary Jesus in more than 15,000 Freshman Survival Kits to be delivered to students on college campuses this fall, Tyndale officials said.

Contest participants are invited to write an essay, create a video clip or submit an original drawing that depicts or describes their experience with an "imaginary Jesus" in their own life, and how they came to recognize the real Jesus in the face of cultural imposters.

The grand prize includes an Amazon Kindle book reader, an Apple iPod Touch and an all-expenses paid trip for two to Portland as well as other prizes. More than 100 first- and second-place prizes will also be awarded. All entries must be submitted online before July 1 at midnight CST.

Click here for more information on the "My Imaginary Jesus" contest.

The company recently inked deals with several new licensing partners, including confectionery products from Frankford Candy & Chocolate Co., play ball and toy merchandise from Hedstrom, and Easter candy baskets and gift sets from Sherwood Brands. The new products will hit retail shelves starting this spring, Big Idea officials said.