In the tentatively titled Traveling Words, Yancey returns to his theme of grace in a collection of stories--which will feature interplay between reader and writer.

"I'm pleased that I get to try out a new ‘voice,' which uniquely combines the more authoritative speaker's voice with my familiar observer/journalist style," said Yancey. "I get to shine a spotlight on God's work in parts of the world that American Christians may not know about. I get to work with a new publisher with a proven track record and outstanding reach into new marketing and sales venues."

Zondervan had previously published several of Yancey's books. Dudley Delffs, vice president and publisher of trade books at Zondervan, told Christian Retailing that the company valued its long-standing partnership with Yancey, which has produced numerous best-sellers such as Prayer, What's So Amazing About Grace? and Where is God When It Hurts? Zondervan is to release Yancey's Grace Notes in September.

"We wish Philip great success with this next project and look forward to future opportunities to extend our publishing partnership with him," Delffs added.

Hachette Senior Vice President and Publisher Rolf Zettersten said the company had wanted to publish "a major work" by Yancey for many years. "This really is the fulfillment of a long-sought objective," he said. "He is one of the most provocative and thoughtful Christian authors of our generation."