Thursday, July 31, 2008

CHRISTIAN CHILDREN'S BOOKS

July 29 /Christian Newswire/ -- In the children's book "God Has a Purpose for Me", young Aya hears a sermon at church about fulfilling God's purpose in her life. She decides to begin right away by doing things she thinks will make the Lord happy. Exhausted and confused by her efforts, she turns to her family and learns what fulfilling God's purpose in one's life really means.

As the author of "God Has a Purpose for Me", LaRonda Koffi, new publisher and author, certainly seems to be fulfilling her own purpose. "I saw this need for Christian children's books," said LaRonda. "There are a lot of children's books, but where are all the Christian books for those who want to learn about the Lord? Where are these books for children?

"I felt that the Lord put it in my heart to start writing Christian children's books," LaRonda said. Rather than face the daunting task of shopping her manuscript around to various publishing companies, she simply started her own.

Formed in November 2007, Jesus Loves Me Children's Books LLC has given LaRonda the opportunity to pursue this calling. "I always knew that I wanted to take this route," LaRonda said. "I decided that forming a publishing company would be more of a ministry," she said. "For each book sold, $1 will go to Compassion International."

The company's mission is to give donations to Christian organizations that help the financial, developmental and spiritual needs of children living in poverty throughout the world. The donated money goes to Compassion International's Unsponsored Children's Fund, which provides temporary care to children waiting for a sponsor.

"I know that probably would be something I could not do had I submitted it and been accepted to a major publishing company," LaRonda said. While she only publishes her own work, Koffi anticipates she'll take on other people's titles in the coming years.

In Koffi's mind, Jesus Loves Me Children's Books LLC can hopefully become a different type of publishing company. One that is more author-friendly. Koffi plans to begin a book tour. She is rapidly booking events across the country and is seeking to schedule events with churches, organizations, public libraries, and Christian schools, free of charge.

For more information about LaRonda Koffi's book and company, visit
www.JesusLovesMeBooks.com.


Christian Newswire

CHRISTIAN BLOG SHUT DOWN

how safe are our blogs? That question was raised again when on the evening of July 26, 2008, a popular religious blog was shut down by an Internet service provider. A complaint filed by Christian author and apologist, Richard Abanes, claiming that one article on the religious opinion site, Apprising.org, had slandered him, caused the web host, IPower, to send its publisher, Ken Silva, a 48-hour warning to remove the offending piece or be taken down. In that the piece was not believed to be slander at all, but rather religious and theological opinion, he refused to be forced into censoring his site by Richard Abanes. The site went down.

There are serious implications here for all bloggers, regardless of what sort of blog they publish. Anyone who has a complaint about your views can claim that you have engaged in slander and the ISP Terms of Service usually allow for the companies to remove your website if you don't take the material in question down. The First Amendment means nothing in these cases. ISP's cannot and will not explore the claims of slander and simply notify bloggers to remove whatever is causing the problem. This opens the door for anyone to censor what a blogger writes online.

Everyone who values the right to read and publish blogs on the Internet has a vested interested in the issue. There is growing concern in the blog world over this, and a number of servers are popping up that offer "First Amendment" hosting. These are web hosts which require a court order before they will remove someone's website. Their day has clearly come.

Christian Newswire

Sunday, July 27, 2008

MORE EDITORIAL CHANGES

Boyds Mills Press: Submit to Manuscript Submissions. Page 149.

Church and Synagogue Library Assn.: Mark Olson, editor. Page 156.

FaithWords: Anne Horch is new editor. (Drop Gary Terashita and Ann Goldsmith). New Website is www.faithwords.com. Page 167.

Friends United Press: Katie Terrell, ed.; www.fum.org/shop. Page 170.

Oregon Catholic Press: Submit to Bari Colombari. Page 198.

Steeple Hill (Single Title): Delete Jessica Atvarez; add Sarah McDaniel, editorial assistant; change Emily Rodmell’s title to Assistant editor. Page 212.

Yale University Press: Jennifer Banks, editor; 203-432-6807; fax 203-436-1064; www.yalepress.yale.edu. Page 222.

CrossHouse Publishing: Katie Welch, publisher. Page 228.

Providence House Publishers: Kelly Bainbridge, editor; www.providencehouse.com. Page 235.

Teach Services: Jennifer Aiken is new acquisitions editor. Page 237.

The Covenant Companion: Jane Swanson-Nystrom is managing editor, and Cathy Norman Peterson is features editor. Page 360.

Eternal Ink has a new slate of editors. Pat Earl (brian.earl@sympatico.ca) has replaced Jennifer Devlin as devotions editor; poetry editor is Elizabeth Pearson (roybet@sbcglobal.net); fillers editor is Ivie Bozeman (ivie@rose.net). Page 368.

QUESTION: CHRISTIAN VS. GENERAL MARKET

Q - Is the christian market significantly different from the general market in some way that makes it easier to break in--or is it just as difficult to get published in both markets?

A - The easy answer is that you have to be a good writer to get into either market. But some would say it may be easier to get into the Christian market simply because you are not competing with as many wrirers. On the other hand there are not as many slots to fill either, so that may not be a valid argument. If you are a practicing Christian, have a keen understanding of the Christian world, and can share valid experience and understnading that is of help to others, it should serve to get your foot in the door. However, if you are picking the Christian market because you think it's easier to break in, you will be wasting your time--and the editors.

Saturday, July 26, 2008

THE SCREENWRITERS BOOTCAMP

The Screenwriter's Boot Camp
at The B Movie Celebration www.bmoviecelebration.com

The Course
Expand your knowledge, comprehension and technique of the screenplay and the art and craft of screenwriting U.K.based screenwriting Ron Aberdeen will be guiding a tour of screenwriting techniques, updating classic storytelling conventions with a focus on new marketing tools of the craft. This course will help writers create, prepare, write, rewrite and approach their screenplay with more control and creativity. Ron Aberdeen's analysis and practical approaches to the craft are poignant, simple, fresh and inspiring.This event is ideal for aspiring and intermediate screenwriters. It is also an excellent refresher course for professional writers who wish to sharpen their screenwriting tools.

The Schedule
The course will include an overview of the screenwriting process, the nature of dramatic structure in films, setting up the story, the tools and elements that create good characters, the nature of conflict, as well as hint on how to market your screenplay..

Who is Ron Aberdeen
Ron is a U.K. based screenwriter. Ron began writing late in life. Ron received his first commission to pen a feature script, ‘Bloody Wicked’, for the established Canadian 'Horror' Director/Producer, David DeCoteau of Rapid Heart Films. Simon Foster of Covent Garden Films, commissioned Ron to write a Sci-Fi Horror feature, ‘The Darkness’, after he also read his work on InkTip. Ron had the honor of having Triggerstreet's Screenplay of the Month

Ron was also was employed by LA director Andy Lauer, to be the story editor on developing his prize winning short, ‘Little Cuba’ into a feature.In Ron has 12 other screenplays under active option.He is 63, well travelled and was previously a CEO for an international machine manufacturing company and a marketing executive for the Sony Corporation

Why, When and Where
This seminar is being offered by The Indy Film Co-op as part of The B Movie Celebration being held in Franklin Indiana September 26th-28th

www.bmoviecelebration.com.

for further information please email info@indyfilmco-op.org

WRITER'S DIGEST 2007 COMPILATION CD

The complete 2007 collection of Writer's Digest is now together on one easy-to-access CD. From the Rebel's Guide to Getting Published to the 21st Century Poet to the popular WD Interviews, this disc offers every article, column and market listing published inside the pages of Writer's Digest in 2007 - with the content appearing exactly as it did in the print issues.

Browse through the articles and enjoy the disc's enhanced PDF format, which provides bookmarks that allow for easy navigation, hundreds of active links to take you straight to the Web, a bookmarked index to every article and easy keyword searches make finding facts fast.

This CD will catch you up on everything you missed (or provide an excellent refresher) that can enhance your writing career.

This CD is in stock now and ready for immediate shipping. The CD works with both PCs and Macintosh computers running Adobe Reader 6.0 or later (Reader is a free program).

The price is only $14.95 with FREE shipping in the United States!

Act now while supplies last...

Writer's Digest 2007 Special Compilation CD
ONLY $14.95

To order got to: www.fwmagazines.com/product/1212/88?r=EMLWDG2

Friday, July 25, 2008

FREE PUBLICITY/PROMOTION WEBSITE

HelpAReporter.com is a free service offered by Peter Shankman. You sign up as a Provider of information and/or a Seeker of information. Three times a day, Peter sends out an email to the providers containing queries from the seekers. IF you feel qualified to comment you merely reply directly to the Seeker's email included in the query listing.

Reprinted from "The Book Marketing Expert newsletter," a free ezine offering book promotion and publicity tips and techniques. http://www.amarketingexpert.com

CHRISTIAN SONGWRITERS CONFERENCE

Retreat to Advance Presents Worship in the Redwoods:
Christian Songwriters Conference August 25 -28, 2008

Join Paul Baloche, Don Moen, Phil Wickham, Sara Groves, Derek Webb, Joy Williams, as well as producers and songwriters Charlie Peacock and Bob Kauflin, and many other world-renown songwriters and instructors for this completely unique, intimate retreat among the majestic California redwoods in the heart of the Santa Cruz mountains. Experience fellowship, instruction, and times of deep refreshing worship with artists and songwriters who are shaping the contour of Christian music. Plus, have your songs evaluated by professionals and share your work with fellow attendees.

The Christian Songwriters Conference is for all songwriters interested in honing their craft in a creative, constructive, and inspiring setting. In addition to times of corporate worship and instruction, the conference offers two major workshop tracks: the Art of Songwriting and the Business of Songwriting. Attendees will have the opportunity to attend either track throughout the day along with plenary sessions in the mornings and evenings featuring worship, artist performances, and reflections on songwriting from our distinguished group of artists and songwriters.

The Art of Songwriting will be taught by our world-class faculty of experienced songwriters who have written worship standards such as "Open the Eyes of My Heart", "God is Good All the Time", "Above All", as well as #1 radio hits such as "Divine Romance" (Phil Wickham) and "Hide" (Joy Williams).

The Business of Songwriting will be taught by a faculty of leading industry professionals including music publishers, A & R representatives, and booking agencies that have real world experience and advice to share.

The Christian Songwriters Conference is for those who want to:

Interact with some of the most successful songwriters in the Christian music industry today.

Learn from industry professionals on how to navigate the business of songwriting
Network with other high potential songwriters and musicians
Have their work reviewed by professionals

Be challenged spiritually to capture the heart of God in a song
visit mounthermon.org for more information.

ACT ONE SCREENWRITING WEEKEND

The Act One Screenwriting Weekend is coming to Rock Island, Illinois!

Early Bird Registration Discount ends NEXT WEEK - August 1, 2008!

Register now – and SAVE $20!

Next Friday will be here before you know it. Plan now to join us in Rock Island – and pay just $175 for the entire weekend when you register before August 1st!

What:
Two days of fun, fast-paced instruction from Hollywood pros

*Story *Formatting
*Structure *Visual Writing
*Character *The “Biz”
*Dialogue *Christianity and Culture

PLUS – The Hollywood Insider Event … and much, much more!

Dates:
September 19, 2008 ~ 1:00-10:00 pm
September 20, 2008 ~ 10:00 am-6:00 pm

Location:
Heritage Church
4801 44th St.
Rock Island, IL 61201

Scheduled To Appear:
Dr. Thom Parham (Screenwriting Professor, Azusa Pacific University;
writer/consultant - JAG)
Dean Batali (That 70’s Show, Buffy the Vampire Slayer)

Registration:
$195 – (includes study materials, Saturday lunch and Hollywood Insider Event)
$175 – Early Birds (before August 1st), Students (with ID), and Groups (10 or more)
$10 – Hollywood Insider Event only

Act One, Inc. is proud to partner with our co-sponsor, Heritage Church,
and additional sponsor Pepperdine University

SPACE IS LIMITED – Visit www.actoneprogram.com to register online NOW!

Thursday, July 24, 2008

WRITING FOR THE SOUL EARLY-BIRD DEADLINE

Conference 09 Early Bird Discount Expires 08/01/08

The Christian Writers Guild's WRITING for the SOUL conference at The Broadmoor is the breath of fresh air you've been hoping for. Nestled in the foothills of Pikes Peak in Colorado Springs, Colorado, The Broadmoor provides the perfect environment for personal development and serious study.

For four days, you'll be challenged and encouraged through a variety of speakers and professional workshops designed to develop your writing craft. For 2009, we're offering continuing classes, elective workshops, and our exclusive "Thick-skinned Manuscript Clinic." In addition, literary agents and publishing representatives will be available for appointments.

Don't miss this opportunity to gain fresh inspiration for your writing.

To register now or learn more about our payment plan and early bird special, please call us toll-free at (866) 495-5177 or email at ContactUs@ChristianWritersGuild.com.

If you'd prefer, you can register online at christianwritersguild.com.

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

APPEALS COURT BANS PRAYER "IN JESUS NAME"

WASHINGTON, July 23 /Christian Newswire/ -- The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals today ruled that the city council of Fredericksburg, Virginia had proper authority to require "non-sectarian" prayer content and exclude council-member Rev. Hashmel Turner from the prayer rotation because he prayed "in Jesus' name."
Former Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, writing the decision, said: "The restriction that prayers be nonsectarian in nature is designed to make the prayers accessible to people who come from a variety of backgrounds, not to exclude or disparage a particular faith."

Ironically, she admitted Turner was excluded from participating solely because of the Christian content of his prayer.

A full text copy of the decision, with added commentary by Chaplain Klingenschmitt is here: www.PrayInJesusName.org/Frenzy13/AgainstOconnor .pdf
Gordon James Klingenschmitt, the former Navy chaplain who faced court-martial for praying "in Jesus name" in uniform (but won the victory in Congress for other chaplains), defended Rev. Hashmel Turner:

"The Fredericksburg government violated everybody's rights by establishing a non-sectarian religion, and requiring all prayers conform, or face punishment of exclusion. Justice O'Connor showed her liberal colors today, by declaring the word 'Jesus' as illegal religious speech, which can be banned by any council who wishes to ignore the First Amendment as she did. Councilman Rev. Hashmel Turner should run for mayor, fire the other council-members, and re-write the prayer policy. And if he appeals to the Supreme Court, I pray he will win, in Jesus' name."
For media interviews, call:
Chaplain Klingenschmitt 719-360-5132 cell
Email: chaplaingate@yahoo.com
Web address: www.PrayInJesusName.org

40 DAYS FOR LIFE CAMPAIGN

WASHINGTON, July 23 /Christian Newswire/ -- "This Friday, a brand-new, world-premiere documentary about 40 Days for Life -- filmed by an Emmy-award-winning director -- will be airing in 128 million homes around the world," said David Bereit, national campaign director of 40 Days for Life. "The latest installment of beingHUMAN airs Friday on the EWTN global television network at 6:30 PM Eastern."

This program, the second in the beingHuman series, will help launch the fall 40 Days for Life campaign, which is scheduled in communities from coast to coast from September 24 through November 2.

This episode, beingHUMAN: 40 Days for Life II, interviews volunteers, national leaders, and former abortionists on how 40 Days for Life is renewing hope in communities across the nation. "It focuses on the stories and successes that prayer, fasting, and peaceful vigil have accomplished through 40 Days for Life campaigns that have now spread across the country and around the globe," said Bereit. "This show is a great opportunity to get people in communities across the nation involved in this initiative."

Last fall, the first installment of this series of high quality, documentary-style programs, helped launch the first national 40 Days for Life campaign. The program was honored with a Telly Award for television excellence. "The documentary helped us spread the word about a new approach to pro-life outreach," said Bereit, "an approach that relied on prayer, fasting and peaceful action. It's an approach that has been successful in reducing abortion numbers and bringing more people into pro-life work."

Previews of the program, as well as additional information about the production of the documentary, are available online at http://www.beinghumanshow.com.

40 Days for Life is a community-based campaign that features 40 days of prayer and fasting, round-the-clock peaceful vigil outside an abortion facility and grassroots educational outreach. Simultaneous campaigns will be conducted coast-to-coast - and internationally - as part of a unified outreach.

"Since we opened applications on July 16, we have had significant responses from communities interesting in conducting 40 Days for Life campaigns this fall," said Bereit. Local pro-life leaders may apply online at http://www.40daysforlife.com/apply.cfm to coordinate a 40 Days for Life campaign. The application period closes at midnight July 29.

Tuesday, July 22, 2008

AN ORGANIZATION CHALLENGE

I know summers can be busy if you have kids at home, and it is often hard to get any time for creative writing. I remember those days well. However, I also remember that I usually was able to carve out time for the busy jobs I could do when the kids were around. So, I'd like to challenge you to spend these busy summer weeks organizing your office and files, studing possible markets, and anything else that needs doing to prepare you for a productive fall when the kids back to school.

I teach at a lot of conferences, so already I have sorted out all my workshop notes and handout masters so when it's time to get things together I can find everything I need quick and easy. I also made up a new file of articles and resources I have collected on different aspects of writing in case I need them for reference for new articles or additional workshop preparations. Happy organizing!!

Monday, July 21, 2008

Question: Fiction Book Proposal

Q - What does a publisher want in a fiction book proposal?

A - A fiction book proposal does vary somewhat from a nonfiction one. Include:

* A cover letter introducing the basic plot/theme of the book, the genre, yourself and experience, if the book is finished or when it will be, etc.

* Include a table of contents if the chapters have titles.

* You can include a list of characters with a brief description of the part that character plays in the story--especially his/her relationship to the main characters.

* An overall synopsis of the story, usually 5-8 pages. Check the publisher's guidelines for their preferred length. With fiction the synopsis does not need to be done chapter-by-chapter. Be sure the synopsis clearly reveals the underlying problem the main character must overcome, and the plot development.

* As far as indicating similar book in the marketplace, you might mention other novels that have been popular in your genre.

* Your bio sould reflect any experience you have had with published fiction, or your background that prepared you to write a book on this topic--such as being a doctor or nurse if it is a medical thriller.

* Plus all the usual info on format: number of words, number of chapters, etc.

ZONDERVAN SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR

Zondervan Receives Supplier of the Year Honors and Seven Other Awards at 2008 International Christian Retail Show

Zondervan, the world’s leading Christian Communications company, was named Supplier of the Year by the Christian Booksellers Association (CBA) for the eighth year. The company was honored with this top award and seven others this week during the 2008 International Christian Retailers Show (ICRS) in Orlando, the $4.2 billion Christian product industry’s largest annual gathering hosted by CBA. In addition to Supplier of the Year award, Zondervan and its authors were honored with three ECPA Christian Book Awards which are presented annually to honor the best in Christian Publishing across six genres. Zondervan also received four Retailer’s Choice Awards, from 31 categories, which are presented by Christian Retailing magazine and voted on by retailers.

Friday, July 18, 2008

NEW MARKET: RENEWED & READY

A new publication from the Seventh-day Adventist is for the 50+ crowd and called Renewed & Ready. For seniors who still have a zest for life. Looking for articles in these categories: Decisions Ahead/Lifestyle (700-1,200 wds.); Travel (700-1,200 wds.); Relationships (500-1,500 words); Making the Best of it (handicaps, sickness, disappointments, etc.;500-1,200 wds.); Traditions (500-1,000 wds.); Mission Trips/Community Service (500-1,250 wds.); Christian Living/Church Life 500-1,200 wds.); Using hobbies/activities to reach others for Christ (700-1,200 wds.). Ginger Church, editor (Editor@RenewedandReady.com). E-mail her at that address or mail to her at 16617 Kendle Rd., Williamsport MD 21795. Call 301-223-6738 for more info.

ACFW'S BOOK OF THE YEAR FINALISTS

Note: I suggest you read these titles for the genre you are interested in writing.

Debut Author

a.. Bayou Justice (Robin Miller writing as Robin Caroll)
b.. In Between (Jenny B Jones)
c.. Sushi for One? (Camy Tang)
d.. My Soul Cries Out (Sherri Lewis)
e.. Petticoat Ranch (Mary Connealy)

Contemporary Novella (*six finalists due to a tie)

a.. A Cloud Mountain Christmas (Robin Lee Hatcher)
b.. Finally Home (Deb Raney in Missouri Memories anthology)
c.. Mississippi Mud (DiAnn Mills in Sugar And Grits Anthology)
d.. Moonlight & Mistletoe (Carrie Turansky in Big Apple Christmas
anthology)
e.. Remaking of Moe McKenna (Gloria Clover in the Race to the Altar
anthology)
f.. Sweet Dreams Drive (Robin Lee Hatcher)

Historical Novella

a.. Beyond the Memories (DiAnn Mills in Mississippi Memories anthology)
b.. Finishing Touches (Kelly Hake in Missouri Memories anthology)
c.. Love Notes (Mary Davis in Love Letters anthology)
d.. The Spinster & The Cowboy (Lena Nelson Dooley in Spinster Brides
of Cactus Corner anthology)
e.. The Spinster & The Tycoon (Vickie McDonough in Spinster Brides
of Cactus Corner anthology)

Lits (*six finalists due to a tie)

a.. Around the World in 80 Dates (Christa Banister)
b.. One Little Secret (Bottke, Allison)
c.. Renovating Becky Miller (Sharon Hinck)
d.. Splitting Harriet (Tamara Leigh)
e.. Sushi for One? (Camy Tang)
f.. The Book of Jane (Dayton/Vanderbilt)

Long contemporary

a.. Autumn Blue (Karen Harter)
b.. Like Always (Robert Elmer)
c.. Taming Rafe (Susan May Warren)
d.. When the Nile Runs Red (DiAnn Mills)
e.. Within This Circle (Deb Raney)

Long Historical (*seven finalists due to TWO ties)

a.. Courting Trouble (Deeanne Gist)
b.. Fancy Pants (Cathy Hake)
c.. Lady of Milkweed Manor (Julie Klassen)
d.. Remember Me (Maureen Lang)
e.. Then Came Hope (Louise Gouge)
f.. Veil of Fire (Marlo Schalesky)
g.. Where Willows Grow (Kim Vogel Sawyer)

Mystery

a.. Days And Hours (Susan Meissner)
b.. Death of a Garage Sale Newbie (Sharon Dunn)
c.. Gone With The Groom (Janice Thompson)
d.. Sticks And Stones (Susan Meissner)
e.. Your Chariot Awaits (Lorena McCourtney)

Short Contemporary

a.. Heart of the Family (Margaret Daley)
b.. The Heart of Grace (Linda Goodnight)
c.. The Perfect Blend (Allie Pleiter)
d.. Wedded Bliss (Kathleen Y'Barbo)
e.. When Love Comes Home (Arlene James)

Short Contemporary Suspense (*six finalists due to a tie)

a.. Caught Redhanded (Gayle Roper)
b.. Her Christmas Protector (Terri Reed)
c.. Nowhere to Hide (Debby Giusti)
d.. Pursuit of Justice (Pamela Tracy)
e.. See No Evil (Gayle Roper)
f.. Vanished (Margaret Daley)

Short Historical (*six due to a tie)

a.. A Time to Keep (Kelly Hake)
b.. A Wealth Beyond Riches (Vickie McDonough)
c.. Canteen Dreams (Cara Putman)
d.. Corduroy Road to Love (Lynn Coleman)
e.. Golden Days (Mary Connealy)
f.. To Trust An Outlaw (Rhonda Gibson

Speculative

a.. Demon: A Memoir (Tosca Lee)
b.. DragonFire (Donita Paul)
c.. The Restorer (Sharon Hinck)
d.. The Restorer's Son (Sharon Hinck)
e.. Isle of Swords (Wayne Thomas Batson)

Suspense

a.. Abomination (Colleen Coble)
b.. Black Ice (Linda Hall)
c.. Coral Moon (Brandilyn Collins)
d.. Crimson Eve (Brandilyn Collins)
e.. Ransomed Dreams (Amy Wallace)

Women's Fiction

a.. A Promise To Remember (Katie Cushman)
b.. Bygones (Kim Sawyer)
c.. Remember to Forget (Deb Raney)
d.. The Oak Leaves (Maureen Lang)
e.. Watercolored Pearls (Stacy Adams)

Young Adult

a.. In Between (Jenny B. Jones)
b.. On The Loose (Jenny B. Jones)
c.. Sara Jane: Liberty's Torch (Eleanor Clark
d.. Sarah's Long Ride (Susan P Davis)
e.. Saving Sailor (Renee Riva)

Thursday, July 17, 2008

"AT THE CENTER" GUIDELINES

At the Center, a print magazine for the last 8 years, is now only available online (www.atcmag.com). This no-expections, pro-life magazine does not usually print personal stories, although you can include a paragraph or two of your experience within your article. No fiction or poetry; prefers helpful, how-to articles to help directors, staff, volunteers, counselors, or board members. Pays $150, on publication, for about 1,000 words. Take scripture from NKJV or ESV. Prefers e-mail submissions to: publications@rightideas.us in a word document. Can mail to: At the Center, Attn.: Elaine Williams, PO Box 100, Morgantown PA 19543.

ZONDERAN EXPANDS NEW YOUNG-ADULT LINE

Zondervan announced seven new books for fall in its new young-adult line. Launched in May 2008, Zondervan is expanding its YA fiction offerings in a publishing sector the LA Times recently called “booming.” Zondervan already publishes three of the five top-selling Christian YA authors—Melody Carlson, Bryan Davis, and Bill Meyers—who all authored books for the May 2008 launch.

The October launch includes Paul McCusker’s Ripple Effect from “The Time Thriller Trilogy;” Bryan Davis’ Eternity’s Edge, book 2 in the “Beyond the Reflection’s Edge” series; Robert Elmer’s The Owling, Book 2 in “The Shadowside Trilogy;” Melody Carlson’s The Homecoming Queen from “The Carter House Girls,” and Debbie Viguié’s The Fall of Candy Corn and The Winter of Candy Canes, Books 2 and 3 from “A Sweet Seasons Novel” series.

Zondervan’s campaign includes a comprehensive marketing plan, including traditional promotional outlets combined with significant technology-driven promotion. Zondervan launched www.zondervan. com/teen that engages teens with contests, newsletters, and freebies about current and emerging YA series.

STANDARD INTRODUCES FAITH CAFE

Responding to the need people have for the connection and authenticity created in coffee shops, Standard Publishing created Faith Café. This small group resource is a topical, interactive, DVD-enhanced curriculum that combines Scripture study, thought-provoking discussion questions, and spiritual nourishment from Christian authors and musicians. It derives its material from the Faith Café talk show, currently televised on INSP's iLife TV station.

For more information about Faith Café, go to www.standardpub.com/faithcafe.

NEW: INSTORE DIGITAL MERCHANDISING

Zondervan announced exciting news during Tuesday's Super Session at the International Christian Retail Show. The publisher has created a new program designed to help Christian retailers compete in the fast-growing digital world.

Moe Girkins, president and CEO of Zondervan, announced the introduction of the first in-store digital merchandising solution for retail called Symtio, which allows consumers to purchase digital content at a bricks-and-mortar store.

Girkins explained, “Simply put, Symtio is going to do for the printed page what iTunes did for music, but will take it to the next level by combining the ease and simplicity of iTunes with a bricks-and-mortar retail experience.”

Symtio expects to have 100 audio titles available at launch, including several of their bestsellers, with more going digital shortly afterward. Baker Publishing VP of Sales & Marketing Dave Lewis has announced that they will feature a number of Baker titles on the Symtio program at launch. Lewis says, “We are excited to be a part of Symtio and have an ebook platform to offer to our authors, retailers and consumers.”

Symtio plans to also feature titles from other publishers in the future. In addition to the audiobook titles, Symtio will also feature a limited number of ebook titles at launch with more being added later.

THE ROMANCE BOOK MARKET

Someone just asked me what was happening in the Christian romance market. As the position of romance seems to change from year to year, I thought it might be interesting to note where the romance genres showed up on the listing of most popular topics from the market guide in the current edition as compared to the 2009 edition which is currently in the works.

In the 2008 edition, from a listing of 150 topics, romance showed up like this:

90. Romance
94. Mystery Romance
100. Historical Romance
120. Frontier Romance

By comparison, in the 2009 edition, with 151 topics, they came out this way:

93. Historical Romance
94. Mystery Romance
95. Romance
116. Frontier Romance

Monday, July 14, 2008

2008 GOLDEN SCROLL AWARDS

Orlando - The 250 members of the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association (AWSA) awarded the 2008 Golden Scroll Awards for Publisher, Editor, Fiction Editor and Member of the Year as well as their Lifetime Achievement Award, Sunday afternoon at the Rosen Centre in Orlando, Florida.

The Golden Scroll Awards go to editors and publishing houses best demonstrating outstanding ministry partnerships with their authors. This year's AWSA Golden Scroll Publisher of the Year Award went to Crossway Books. Author Patricia A. Ennis said, “They have an incredibly supportive staff and each person I interface with possesses a servant's heart. They are quick to respond to my requests, gracious, and generous in the support of my writing endeavors. “

The AWSA Golden Scroll Editor of the Year Award went to Philis Boultinghouse of Howard Books, a division of Simon and Schuster. Author Jill Rigby say, “Philis offers profound suggestions and her patience is endless. She allows me the privilege of sharing the exciting happenings of our ministry and rejoices with us.”

The AWSA Golden Scroll Fiction Editor of the Year Award was presented to Nick Harrison. Author Gail Roper says, “Nick Harrison, is personal and professional. He sticks-to-task when there’s work to do, yet isn't afraid to be a "friend" as well as an editor.”

The AWSA Golden Scroll AWSA Member of the Year Award was presented to Kathi Macias. AWSA founder Linda Evans Shepherd says, “Though Kathi is a busy and successful author, she always has time to encourage other authors.”

The Golden Scroll Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Florence Littauer by Linda Evans Shepherd and President George W. Bush impersonator and author, John Morgan. Linda says, “Florence has spent her life training those called by God to communicate from the platform and through published books. No sother person within ICRS has contributed more of their life to helping develop the ministries of authors than Florence Littauer.”

Florence keynoted the banquet with author Jennifer Kennedy Dean serving as the emcee. Authors Rhonda Rhea and Linda Evans Shepherd presented the awards with recording artist Tamara Nashman performing the special music, including a parody dedicated to the editors and publishers and written by humorist Martha Bolton.

AWSA, an outreach of Right to the Heart Ministries, consists of over 250 top ICRS women authors who publish and speak nationally.

CHRISTY AWARD WINNERS

For Contemporary stand alone: CHASING FIREFLIES by Charles Martin

For Contemporary series: HOME TO HOLLY SPRINGS by Jan Karon

For Historical: A PROPER PURSUIT by Lynn Austin

For the Lit category: HALLIE'S HEART by Shelly Beach

For Romance: REMEMBERED by Tammy Alexander

For Suspense: THE CURE by Athol Dickson

For Visionary: SCARLET by Stephen Lawhead

For Young Adult: HOLLYWOOD NOBODY by Lisa Samson

for First Novel: THE STONES CRY OUT by Sibella Giorello

2008 CHRISTIAN BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARDED TO AUDIO BIBLE

Sunday evening, July 13, 2008, Orlando, FL -- The Evangelical Christian Publishers Association (ECPA) announced this evening the six category winners of the 2008 Christian Book Awards and the “Christian Book of the Year” during the International Christian Retail Show (ICRS) in Orlando.

For the first time in the award program’s 30-year history, a Bible and an audio product has won the “Christian Book of the Year” honor:The Word of Promise™ New Testament Audio Bible (Thomas Nelson) features the talents of actors such as Jim Caviezel (“The Passion of the Christ”), Golden Globe winner Stacy Keach, Academy Award and Golden Globe winner Lou Gossett, Jr., and Academy Award winner Marisa Tomei, in a scripted dramatization of the New King James Version (NKJV) of the New Testament. Since its release in October 2007, The Word of Promise™ has been consistently among the top Bibles on the ECPA bestseller lists and is the #1 bestselling Bible retailing for more than $30.

This was the first year the ECPA Recognition Committee included media presentations of the Bible in the Christian Book Award program. “Our industry will always be about quality, Christ-honoring content,” states ECPA President Mark Kuyper. “As the digital age evolves, the ECPA Recognition Committee desires to remain open to recognizing excellence in the variety of ways our publishing members present their content. The Scriptures have always had a unique oral tradition and our members have continued to creatively produce amazing presentations of this written Word, so allowing audio presentations of the Bible into the Christian Book Award program this year was a timely decision.”

The “Christian Book of the Year” was chosen from the 32 Christian Book Award finalists, across six categories, using both independent judging criteria (measuring overall excellence) and sales data (reflecting consumer impact).

Presented annually to the best in Christian publishing since 1978, the Christian Book Awards honor excellence within six genre categories.

The Six Category Winners for the 2008 Christian Book Awards are:

BIBLES
Discover God Study Bible
Tyndale House Publishers, 9780842369183

BIBLE REFERENCE & STUDY
An Old Testament Theology by Bruce K. Waltke
Zondervan, 9780310218975

CHILDREN & YOUTH
Teen Virtue: Confidential by Vicki Courtney
B&H Publishing, 9780805441925

CHRISTIAN LIFE
When the Game is Over, It All Goes Back in the Box by John Ortberg
Zondervan, 9780310253501

FICTION
In Search of Eden by Linda Nichols
Bethany House/ Baker Publishing Group, 9780764201677

INSPIRATION & GIFT
Step into the Bible by Ruth Graham
Zondervan, 9780310714101

Sunday, July 13, 2008

HOST YOUR OWN BLOG TOUR

Do you have a Blog?

Do you need content to keep your Blog fresh?

Host Your Own Book Tour Landing Spot

Join the National Christian Writers’ Conference Virtual Book Tour as a host.

- Interview authors

- Provide book reviews

- Keep your Blog fresh without wasting time and energy

- Add exciting new stories into your own Blog

Host Benefits:

- Increase traffic to your Blog

- Generate more comments and posts

- Link to a larger Blog network

- Syndicate your Blog

- Receive training from Top Bloggers in the industry…and more

Visit www.nationalchristianwritersconference.com and sign up in the Virtual Book Tour Host page.

Antonio L. Crawford

Thursday, July 10, 2008

CHRISTIAN SMALL PUBLISHER BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARD

Press Release

Contact: Sarah Bolme, Christian Small Publishers Association
cspa@christianpublishers.net
704-277-7194

Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year honors books produced by small publishers each year for outstanding contribution to Christian life. Nominations are accepted in four categories: Fiction, Nonfiction: General, Nonfiction: Biography, and Children’s. Nominations must be received by November 15, 2008.

Books must be published in 2007 or 2008 by a small publisher with annual revenues of $350,000 or less. Nominated books must be Christian in nature and intended for the Christian marketplace. All nominated books must be printed in English and for sale in the United States. Any small publisher can nominate titles for the Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year Award.

CSPA will invite Christian retailers to vote on the nominated titles in February and March 2009. The winners of the award will be the books that receive the most votes from Christian retailers. Christian retailers are encouraged to highlight the books they vote for in their stores during Small Press Month of March.

Christian Small Publishers Association (CSPA) is the sponsor of this book award. CSPA was established in 2004 to represent and promote small publishers in the Christian marketplace. The organization has over 60 member publishers producing materials for the Christian marketplace. CSPA is a supplier member of CBA.

For more information on the Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year Award including guidelines, eligibility, and nomination form, visit Christian Small Publishers Association’s website at www.christianpublishers.net.

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

MARKET GUIDE SPECIAL DISCOUNT OFFER--AGAIN

Note: I made the offer below a few months ago, but I have accumulated a few more slots starting at $16.95, so they are now available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

I think most of you are aware of the offer I have to sign up to get the market guide automatically every year, and freeze the price at the current level. Currently that is at $34.99, plus postage. However, I'm going to make a very special offer to my blog readers. Because I lose some off my automatic list every year due to death, health problems, financial difficulties, no longer writing, or whatever, I'm going to let you sign up to take over one of the lower prices these cancellations held. Those prices range from $16.95 to 29.99, plus postage. This will be on a first come, first serve basis. I will start with those at $16.95 and move up as each has been filled.

All I need from you is an e-mail (stuartcwmg@aol.com) saying you want to be added to the automatic list on this special, and send the following information: name, mailing address, phone number, and whether you have the 2008 edition or want me to send one. I will e-mail you back letting you know at what amount you will be paying, and you can accept or reject the offer at that point. I'll keep this offer open until all the slots are filled.

CORRECTION TO AGENT LISTINGS

Blumer Literary Agency has asked to be deleted. Page 571.

Joelle Delbourgo Associates has asked to be dropped from the guide. Page 573.

Drop Full Circle Literary—they are no longer seeking any religious work. Page 574.

The Garmond Agency has asked to be deleted. Page 574.

Golden Literary Agency has gone out of business. Page 575.

Natasha Kern now only accepts e-mail queries at queries@natashakern.com. Page 577.

At The Literary Group Intl., drop Ian Kleinert and his e-mail address. Page 578.

Quicksilver Books Agency has a new e-mail: quickbooks@optonline.net. Page 581.

Leslie Stobbe has a new phone number: 828-808-7127. No longer open to unpublished authors. Page 585.

Put Jan Dennis back on your agent list: 19350 Glen Hollow Circle, Monument CO 80132; 719-559-1711; jpdennislit@msn.com. Open to unpublished authors and new clients. Handles teen & adult fiction, adult nonfiction, general and crossover books.

New agent: Carol Susan Roth Literary & Creative, P.O. Box 620337, Woodside CA
94062.; 650-323-3795; carol@authorsbest.com; www.AuthorsBest.com. Agent: Carol
Susan Roth. Open to unpublished authors and new clients. Handles adult
religious/inspirational nonfiction, gift books, crossover, general, health, science & spirit(no fiction or memoirs). Query with your pitch, author bio, and platform. No fees. "We are interested in working with experts who are interested in developing many
books."

SOURCE FOR BOOK TRAILERS

Cecil Stokes from Tentmakers Entertainment has just started producing book trailers. Here is the link www.bookpreview.com Click on "Portfolio." His prices are reasonable, and his work is excellent.

Monday, July 7, 2008

B & H LAUNCHES FICTION WEBSITE

B&H Publishing Group has launched an all-new Web site for its growing line of fiction releases at PureEnjoyment.com. The portal features the latest information on current titles plus contests, giveaways, author pages, and an increasingly popular series of book video trailers.

“Like a movie trailer, these videos make books come alive in a way that really helps the potential reader,” said Ben Todd, B&H electronic marketing manager. Two new books with video trailers are Forsaken and Shade. Other new fall 2008 fiction titles from B&H will include Patti Hill’s mother-daughter dramedy The Queen of Sleepy Eye and Lookin’ Back, Texas, the second novel from million-selling author Leanna Ellis.

PureEnjoyment.com is also currently offering a free download of Sisters, Ink, the first in a series of four novels by Rebeca Seitz following the lives of four daughters adopted into a family and connected by their late mother’s love of scrapbooking.

MEETING WITH ELIZABETH SHERRILL

The East Metro Atlanta Christian Writers group (EMACW) invites the public to a once-in-a-lifetime event: a meet and greet/book signing on Friday, August 8 with world-renowned author Elizabeth Sherrill. The event will be from 4:30 until 6:00 p.m. at DeKalb Technical College’s Newton Center in Covington.

Elizabeth Sherrill has published 1,500 articles and more than 30 books, with sales in excess of 50 million. She has co-written many Christian classics, including The Hiding Place, The Cross and the Switchblade, God’s Smuggler and others.

Her most recent book, All the Way to Heaven, tells of her own journey from atheism to profound commitment to God. She has been a Guideposts writer and editor for 56 years.

Ms. Sherrill also will lead a writers’ conference on Saturday, August 9. For more information, call 404-444-7514 or visit www.emacw.org to download a registration form.

QUESTION: TIPS FOR BEING PUBLISHED IN GUIDEPOSTS

Q - What tips do you have for being published in Guideposts?

A - Guideposts seems to be a favoroable target market for a lot of Christian writers. It may be partly because this magazine has such a large subscription base--3 million--or because they pay well--$100-500. To hit this market, you need to get and carefully study their writers' guidelines. They get so many submissions every month, it's easy for them to discard those that don't follow the guidelines.

They accept only mailed submissions--complete manuscripts with cover letters--and do not consider e-mailed submissions or query letters. According to the editor, the most open section of the magazine is a regular monthly column called Divine Touch--which deals with stories that show tangible evidence of God's help. Unlike the rest of the magazine (which needs to be written in first person), this column calls for third person only. Length for Divine Touch is 400 words and it pays $100.

If you are not familiar with the magazine, read several issues before submitting. Also keep in might that this is not a strictly Christian publication, but has a much broader outreach/audience. Stories for the rest of the magazine tend to be overly dramatic. They tend to get an overabundance of stories about death or healing, so your chances with those kinds of stories are pretty slim.

CONTEST: MOST IMPORTANT DAY OF YOUR LIFE?

Enter Real Simple's first-ever Life Lessons essay contest and you could have your essay publishing in Real Simple, with a prize of $3,000. Contest entries should be typed, double spaced, and a maximum of 1,500 words. No purchase necessary. Deadline for entries is September 9, 2008. Open to legal residents of the United States age 18 or older at the time of entry. Void where prohibited by law. (All entries become the property of Real Simple and will not be returned.) Go to www.realsimple.com/lifelessons for contest rules and entry details.

Sunday, July 6, 2008

EPA "CAUSE OF THE YEAR"

The Evangelical Press Assn. (EPA) each year sponsors a special "Higher Goals" award category in connecton with their "Cause of the Year." That "Cause" for 2008 is "Caring for God's Creation;" and for 2009 it will be "God as Creator." For that reason many of the Christian magazines will be looking for articles to publish in those two categories. This would be a good time to query editors with your ideas in those categories.

NATIONAL CHRISTIAN WRITERS CONFERENCE

Virginia Beach, V.A. – Registration is underway for the 2008 National Christian Writers Conference and Book Expo. Saturday, September 20, 2008, from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, in Virginia Beach, VA. The event will be held at the CrownePlaza, Virginia Beach, 4453 Bonney Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23462 .

This year’s theme: “It’s Time to Tell Your Story.” We receive several e-mails and phone calls almost daily. Majority of the time writers simply stop us on the street. Every-one has a story to tell. Here’s the problem. Most people have wonderful ideas. But, they do not know how to write and publish their ideas in a book. Does this sound familiar?

Don’t worry. The National Christian Writers Conference is designed just for you. At this event, we provide the information, resources and training that writers and authors need to write, publish and market their books. Conference participants will have an opportunity to hone their writing skill in sessions led by established authors, editors and publishers.

We have a great speaker and panelists ready to help you become a polished writer and author. Visit http://www.NationalChristianWritersConference.com to receive more information about our speakers and workshop leaders.

Do you want to learn more about the publishing industry? Are you ready to publish your book? You are invited to attend this event. Early bird registration (on or before July 1, 2008) is $49.00, full registration (after July 1, 2008) is $75.00. Special pricing for Active Duty Military and/or Veterans is $49.00 and College Student or Teen Registration is $49.00. The registration fee will cover breakfast, lunch, all workshops and workshop materials, as well as entrance to the book expo.

For more information about the National Christian Writers Conference and Book Expo please call Renee Bobb at 804-998-8014 or e-mail bobbrenee@yahoo.com. Visit our web site at www.NationalChristianWritersConference.com.

Wednesday, July 2, 2008

NEW: iLEVITE ONLINE MAGAZINE

iLevite Online Magazine provides free resources for church worship leaders. Bill Rayborn, former publisher of The Church Music Report, announced the publication of a new, free online magazine especially for church music and worship leaders called iLevite. The publication, which is online at www.ilevite.com, contains many articles of interest to church worship leaders ranging from discussions about musical styles, vocal tips, drummer information, technical information, Web sites and more.

MARIAN HEATH ACQUIRES LAWSON FALLE & PORTAL

Marian Heath, a leading greeting-card publisher based in Wareham, MA, announced a multiple greeting-card company acquisition set to strengthen Marian Heath’s position in the worldwide greeting-card market.

Lawson Falle Publishing (aka LIFE Publishing) has been a leader in Christian greeting cards for 37 years. Today, more than 2,000 Christian bookstores in the U.S., Canada, and international markets carry the line of everyday and seasonal counter cards, boxed notes, and boxed Christmas offering. LIFE’s exclusive licenses include the United States Postal Service, Joni Eareckson Tada, Gary Chapman, Nancy Leigh DeMoss, and Guideposts. President Rick Tocquigny will continue to lead this group. Lawson Falle was previously a part of Dicksons, Inc.