Published in November 2010, Burpo's account of his young son Colton's near-death experience of heaven has sold 2.5 million copies, plus an additional 400,000 e-book downloads. Translated into 27 languages, Heaven Is for Real has spent 24 weeks on the New York Times Paperback Nonfiction best-seller list, including 17 consecutive weeks ranked at No. 1.

Joel Kneedler, a literary agent of Alive Communications, told Christian Retailing that the agency negotiated the book's film rights with Sony Pictures and producer Joe Roth. "A number of film production companies were vying for this project, but Joe and his team won the day," said Kneedler, noting that a screenwriter and cast have not been chosen, and no date has yet been set for the movie's release.

"Colton has a simple message for people: 'Heaven is for real,' " Burpo, a pastor in Nebraska, said in a statement. "We're excited about the possibility of many more people hearing that message (with the film)."

The movie will be co-produced by T.D. Jakes—pastor at The Potter's House in Dallas, best-selling author and co-producer of the new movie Jumping the Broom. Vice president of production for Columbia Pictures, a division of Sony, DeVon Franklin—author of Produced by Faith: Enjoy Real Success Without Losing Your True Self (Howard Books)—will work with Jakes on Heaven Is for Real.

The book's "true story and message of hope through the eyes of a child has already brought comfort and inspiration to millions," said Matt Baugher, vice president and publisher at Thomas Nelson. "The film will do the same."

Meanwhile, Nelson is releasing Heaven Is for Real For Kids on Nov. 9. Retailing for $14.99, the illustrated children's version of the surprise best-seller will include a Q&A for children and a prayer page.

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