Please join us this Spring in one of many prestigious online writing courses offered through Stanford Continuing Studies. Work with a small group of writers in one of eleven Writer's Studio courses taught mostly by former Stegner fellows.
Thanks to the flexibility of the online format, these courses are designed to fit into your schedule. You can log into our classes from any computer with Internet access, anywhere and at any time.
Courses are open to all adults, and we encourage all levels of writers to enroll. Whether you are just starting out, or finishing up your novel, you will find a course suited to your level of experience. Students will benefit from sharing their work with an eclectic community of writers—from many locations, with diverse backgrounds and writing styles.
SPRING courses include:
So Not Chick Lit: Writing Novels about Women's Lives
Short Story Writing
Creative Nonfiction: A Plan for Success
Travel Memoir: The Open Road
Writing the Great Debut
Writing 2.0 On Blogs and Blogging
Writing the Lives of Others
Poetry: The Essentials
Getting Started in Creative Writing
Creative Nonfiction with The New York Times
Novel Writing: The Art of Plot
Spring registration is now open - most classes begin the week of March 28. To learn more and to register, please visit: continuingstudies.stanford.edu.
Friday, February 25, 2011
PREACHINGTODAY.COM ANNOUNCES BOOK AWARDS
PreachingToday.com a website of Christianity Today International announces annual book awards that strengthen the soul and skill of preachers. PreachingToday.com identified three books in two categories that are thought to stir preacher's souls or enhance preacher's abilities in ways that will pay dividends for a lifetime of proclaiming God's Word.
In the category of Feeding the Preacher's Soul, PreachingToday.com recognizes Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy by Eric Metaxas. Hershael York, preaching professor at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and pastor of the Buck Run Baptist Church in Frankfort, Kentucky, says "Nothing feeds the soul quite like the witness of true courage undergirded by theological conviction."
In the category of Enhancing the Preacher's Skills, PreachingToday.com selected Reclaiming the Old Testament for Christian Preaching edited by Grenville J. R. Kent; Paul J. Kissling; and Laurence A. Turner as the winner. Mark Mitchell, pastor of Central Peninsula Church in Foster City, California, describes this book as "Well-written, practical, scholarly but readable, and the writers come from a variety of theological positions within evangelicalism. Each chapter discusses how to preach a particular book or genre of the Old Testament. The book has a great chapter on preaching from difficult Old Testament texts." The runner-up in this category is Michael Lawrence's book Biblical Theology in the Life of the Church.
Pastors can find out more and leave comments about the book awards by visiting PreachingToday.com. PreachingToday.com is an online resource for preachers and teachers that provides tools and training to advance the art and craft of biblical preaching. Pastors can start their 30-day free trial membership by visiting PreachingToday.com today.
In the category of Feeding the Preacher's Soul, PreachingToday.com recognizes Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy by Eric Metaxas. Hershael York, preaching professor at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and pastor of the Buck Run Baptist Church in Frankfort, Kentucky, says "Nothing feeds the soul quite like the witness of true courage undergirded by theological conviction."
In the category of Enhancing the Preacher's Skills, PreachingToday.com selected Reclaiming the Old Testament for Christian Preaching edited by Grenville J. R. Kent; Paul J. Kissling; and Laurence A. Turner as the winner. Mark Mitchell, pastor of Central Peninsula Church in Foster City, California, describes this book as "Well-written, practical, scholarly but readable, and the writers come from a variety of theological positions within evangelicalism. Each chapter discusses how to preach a particular book or genre of the Old Testament. The book has a great chapter on preaching from difficult Old Testament texts." The runner-up in this category is Michael Lawrence's book Biblical Theology in the Life of the Church.
Pastors can find out more and leave comments about the book awards by visiting PreachingToday.com. PreachingToday.com is an online resource for preachers and teachers that provides tools and training to advance the art and craft of biblical preaching. Pastors can start their 30-day free trial membership by visiting PreachingToday.com today.
WEBSITE SEEKS WRITERS
I'm looking for Christian freelance writers to write content for http://www.inspirationalchristians.org/ and http://www.christianstuff.co/
InspirationalChristians.org is a website sharing biographies of men and women of great Chistian faith. Would you like to write about some of the legends of the Christian faith, who gave up all they had to live their lives for God? I'm keen to publish biographies of Christians like Smith Wigglesworth, John Wesley, William Booth, Charles Spurgeon, Tony Anthony, etc.
ChristianStuff.co is a website collating some of the best Christian resources online and reviewing Christian books, CDs, Software etc.
Both of these websites are in their infancy but will certainly be growing over the coming year, and I'd love to get some good Christian writers onboard. If you are interested in the opportunity, please contact me through the webform on: http://www.christianstuff.co/contact.html I look forward to hearing from you!
InspirationalChristians.org is a website sharing biographies of men and women of great Chistian faith. Would you like to write about some of the legends of the Christian faith, who gave up all they had to live their lives for God? I'm keen to publish biographies of Christians like Smith Wigglesworth, John Wesley, William Booth, Charles Spurgeon, Tony Anthony, etc.
ChristianStuff.co is a website collating some of the best Christian resources online and reviewing Christian books, CDs, Software etc.
Both of these websites are in their infancy but will certainly be growing over the coming year, and I'd love to get some good Christian writers onboard. If you are interested in the opportunity, please contact me through the webform on: http://www.christianstuff.co/contact.html I look forward to hearing from you!
DONNA GOODRICH OFFERS WRITERS' WORKSHOPS
I have five one-day workshops scheduled in Arizona in April, May and June at an affordable price. If you know anyone interested (or you would like to have one in your area), contact me at dgood648@aol.com.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLERS - WEEK OF FEBRUARY 27
Heaven Is For Real by Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent (Thomas Nelson) is #1 on the paperback nonfiction list and #2 on the combined print and e-Book nonfiction list, the e-Book nonfiction list and the combined hardcover & paperback nonfiction list.
The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman (Northfield/Moody) is #1 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
Crazy Love by Francis Chan with Danae Yankoski (David C. Cook) is #3 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
Made to Crave by Lysa TerKeurst (Zondervan) is #5 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
Radical by David Platt (Multnomah) is #6 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey (Thomas Nelson) is #8 on the hardcover business list and #12 on the hardcover advice & misc. list.
The Love Dare by Stephen and Alex Kendrick with Lawrence Kimbrough (B&H Publishing) is #9 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
90 Minutes In Heaven by Don Piper with Cecil Murphey (Revell/Baker) is #18 on the paperback nonfiction list and #19 on the combined print and e-Book nonfiction list and #8 on the e-Book nonfiction list.
The Shack by William P. Young (Windblown Media) is #23 on the paperback trade fiction list.
Same Kind of Different as Me by Ron Hall and Denver Moore with Lynn Vincent (Thomas Nelson) is #22 on the paperback nonfiction list.
The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman (Northfield/Moody) is #1 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
Crazy Love by Francis Chan with Danae Yankoski (David C. Cook) is #3 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
Made to Crave by Lysa TerKeurst (Zondervan) is #5 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
Radical by David Platt (Multnomah) is #6 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey (Thomas Nelson) is #8 on the hardcover business list and #12 on the hardcover advice & misc. list.
The Love Dare by Stephen and Alex Kendrick with Lawrence Kimbrough (B&H Publishing) is #9 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
90 Minutes In Heaven by Don Piper with Cecil Murphey (Revell/Baker) is #18 on the paperback nonfiction list and #19 on the combined print and e-Book nonfiction list and #8 on the e-Book nonfiction list.
The Shack by William P. Young (Windblown Media) is #23 on the paperback trade fiction list.
Same Kind of Different as Me by Ron Hall and Denver Moore with Lynn Vincent (Thomas Nelson) is #22 on the paperback nonfiction list.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
OUTREACH RESOURCES OF THE YEAR
Twenty resources have been selected as 2011 Outreach Resources of the Year, Outreach magazine announced today.
The Outreach Resources of the Year is a celebration of the best outreach-oriented books and other media produced in areas such as evangelism, church multiplication, compassionate service and cross-cultural ministries.
About 150 resources published between Nov. 1, 2009, and Oct. 31, 2010, were submitted to Outreach for consideration. Outreach editors narrowed the field to 103 and placed them in categories.
The magazine then enlisted the help of an expert in each category to consider the resources. Each panelist independently evaluated the resources in his or her area of expertise and selected what he or she thought were the best. The experts had the discretion to choose how many resources to recognize in their categories.
The 2011 Outreach Resources of the Year are:
APOLOGETICS
God is Great, God is Good: Why Believing in God is Reasonable and Responsible
Edited by William Lane Craig and Chad Meister (IVP)
On Guard: Defending Your Faith with Reason and Precision
By William Lane Craig (David C. Cook)
The Rage Against God: How Atheism Led Me to Faith
By Peter Hitchens (Zondervan)
CHILDREN'S OUTREACH
Children of God Storybook Bible
By Archbishop Desmond Tutu (Zonderkidz)
Kindness Counts (The Berenstain Bears)
By Jan & Mike Berenstain (Zonderkidz)
That's Where God Is
By Dan & Ali Morrow (David C. Cook)
CHURCH MULTIPLICATION
Church Planter: The Man, The Message, The Mission
By Darrin Patrick (Crossway)
Exponential: How You and Your Friends Can Start a Missional Church Movement
By Dave Ferguson and Jon Ferguson (Zondervan)
COMPASSION
Hurt Healer: Reaching Out to a Broken World
By Tony Nolan (Baker)
The Invisible: What the Church Can Do to Find and Serve the Least of These
By Arloa Sutter (Wesleyan)
CROSS-CULTURAL MINISTRY
Many Colors: Cultural Intelligence for a Changing Church
By Soong-Chan Rah (Moody)
Multicultural Ministry Handbook: Connecting Creatively to a Diverse World
Edited by David A. Anderson & Margarita R. Cabellon (IVP)
CULTURE
The Next Christians: The Good News About the End of Christian America
By Gabe Lyons (Doubleday)
EVANGELISM
The Best Kept Secret of Christian Mission: Promoting the Gospel With More Than Our Lips
By John Dickson (Zondervan)
JUSTICE
Humanitarian Jesus: Social Justice and the Cross
By Christian Buckley and Ryan Dobson (Moody)
LEADERSHIP
Sticky Teams: Keeping Your Leadership Team and Staff on the Same Page
By Larry Osborne (Zondervan)
MISSIONAL LIVING
Untamed: Reactivating a Missional Form of Discipleship
By Alan Hirsch and Debra Hirsch (Baker)
PASS-ALONG RESOURCES
Everything You Always Wanted to Know About God (but Were Afraid to Ask): The Jesus Edition
By Eric Metaxas (Regal)
Start! The Bible for New Believers
Edited by Greg Laurie (Thomas Nelson)
SMALL-GROUP CURRICULA
The Reason for God (DVD and Discussion Guide)
By Timothy Keller (Zondervan)
The resources of the year are highlighted in the March/April 2011 issue of Outreach magazine, which also includes a list of additional valuable resources that were not part of the Outreach Resources of the Year process.
The March/April 2011 issue also features an interview with best-selling author Philip Yancey and a discussion among church communication professionals about how to best communicate a church's vision and identity to people inside and outside the church.
Vista, Calif.-based Outreach magazine offers the ideas, insights and stories of today's outreach-oriented, Bible-based churches. Founded in January 2003 by church communications company Outreach, Inc., Outreach is an award-winning, bimonthly periodical for church leadership. Each year, Outreach publishes the Outreach 100, a special issue in September that features the 100 Largest and Fastest-Growing Churches in America; the Small Church issue (July/August); and the Outreach Resources of the Year (March/April). Outreach is available by subscription. For more information, visit OutreachMagazine.com.
The Outreach Resources of the Year is a celebration of the best outreach-oriented books and other media produced in areas such as evangelism, church multiplication, compassionate service and cross-cultural ministries.
About 150 resources published between Nov. 1, 2009, and Oct. 31, 2010, were submitted to Outreach for consideration. Outreach editors narrowed the field to 103 and placed them in categories.
The magazine then enlisted the help of an expert in each category to consider the resources. Each panelist independently evaluated the resources in his or her area of expertise and selected what he or she thought were the best. The experts had the discretion to choose how many resources to recognize in their categories.
The 2011 Outreach Resources of the Year are:
APOLOGETICS
God is Great, God is Good: Why Believing in God is Reasonable and Responsible
Edited by William Lane Craig and Chad Meister (IVP)
On Guard: Defending Your Faith with Reason and Precision
By William Lane Craig (David C. Cook)
The Rage Against God: How Atheism Led Me to Faith
By Peter Hitchens (Zondervan)
CHILDREN'S OUTREACH
Children of God Storybook Bible
By Archbishop Desmond Tutu (Zonderkidz)
Kindness Counts (The Berenstain Bears)
By Jan & Mike Berenstain (Zonderkidz)
That's Where God Is
By Dan & Ali Morrow (David C. Cook)
CHURCH MULTIPLICATION
Church Planter: The Man, The Message, The Mission
By Darrin Patrick (Crossway)
Exponential: How You and Your Friends Can Start a Missional Church Movement
By Dave Ferguson and Jon Ferguson (Zondervan)
COMPASSION
Hurt Healer: Reaching Out to a Broken World
By Tony Nolan (Baker)
The Invisible: What the Church Can Do to Find and Serve the Least of These
By Arloa Sutter (Wesleyan)
CROSS-CULTURAL MINISTRY
Many Colors: Cultural Intelligence for a Changing Church
By Soong-Chan Rah (Moody)
Multicultural Ministry Handbook: Connecting Creatively to a Diverse World
Edited by David A. Anderson & Margarita R. Cabellon (IVP)
CULTURE
The Next Christians: The Good News About the End of Christian America
By Gabe Lyons (Doubleday)
EVANGELISM
The Best Kept Secret of Christian Mission: Promoting the Gospel With More Than Our Lips
By John Dickson (Zondervan)
JUSTICE
Humanitarian Jesus: Social Justice and the Cross
By Christian Buckley and Ryan Dobson (Moody)
LEADERSHIP
Sticky Teams: Keeping Your Leadership Team and Staff on the Same Page
By Larry Osborne (Zondervan)
MISSIONAL LIVING
Untamed: Reactivating a Missional Form of Discipleship
By Alan Hirsch and Debra Hirsch (Baker)
PASS-ALONG RESOURCES
Everything You Always Wanted to Know About God (but Were Afraid to Ask): The Jesus Edition
By Eric Metaxas (Regal)
Start! The Bible for New Believers
Edited by Greg Laurie (Thomas Nelson)
SMALL-GROUP CURRICULA
The Reason for God (DVD and Discussion Guide)
By Timothy Keller (Zondervan)
The resources of the year are highlighted in the March/April 2011 issue of Outreach magazine, which also includes a list of additional valuable resources that were not part of the Outreach Resources of the Year process.
The March/April 2011 issue also features an interview with best-selling author Philip Yancey and a discussion among church communication professionals about how to best communicate a church's vision and identity to people inside and outside the church.
Vista, Calif.-based Outreach magazine offers the ideas, insights and stories of today's outreach-oriented, Bible-based churches. Founded in January 2003 by church communications company Outreach, Inc., Outreach is an award-winning, bimonthly periodical for church leadership. Each year, Outreach publishes the Outreach 100, a special issue in September that features the 100 Largest and Fastest-Growing Churches in America; the Small Church issue (July/August); and the Outreach Resources of the Year (March/April). Outreach is available by subscription. For more information, visit OutreachMagazine.com.
Monday, February 21, 2011
ZONDERVAN PRESIDENT LEAVES
Zondervan President and CEO Moe Girkins to Leave the Company; Scott Macdonald to serve in Interim Role
Zondervan announced Thursday that its President and CEO, Maureen “Moe” Girkins, will leave her position effective March 11, 2011. Scott Macdonald, acting General Manager of Zonderan’s business unit The City, will take on the role of Interim President during this transition period. Macdonald will work closely with Zondervan’s leadership team, which combined has more than 100 years of experience with the company. A search for a new CEO will begin immediately. Macdonald has more than 30 years of experience in sales and Christian retailing, including serving as the President of Insight Retail Group, a franchisor of Christian stores with 35 sites. He has developed growth strategies and increased profitability at multiple companies. Most recently, Macdonald has served as acting General Manager for The City, a Zondervan-owned integrated software platform for church communities.
Zondervan announced Thursday that its President and CEO, Maureen “Moe” Girkins, will leave her position effective March 11, 2011. Scott Macdonald, acting General Manager of Zonderan’s business unit The City, will take on the role of Interim President during this transition period. Macdonald will work closely with Zondervan’s leadership team, which combined has more than 100 years of experience with the company. A search for a new CEO will begin immediately. Macdonald has more than 30 years of experience in sales and Christian retailing, including serving as the President of Insight Retail Group, a franchisor of Christian stores with 35 sites. He has developed growth strategies and increased profitability at multiple companies. Most recently, Macdonald has served as acting General Manager for The City, a Zondervan-owned integrated software platform for church communities.
ONLINE WORKSHOP
Friends,
I'm excited to announce a new offering on my website! "Writing the Psalms" is a three-week online workshop with a two-fold objective: To get you to incorporate the psalms into your own daily life as tools for worship and to discover how writing your own psalms brings new dynamics and strength into your creativity. We'll take a look at a number of biblical psalms and write our own psalms of praise and woe.
Join us! The new course starts March 14 and ends April 1. And it can all be completed in the comfort of you own home. Read more here: http://www.alicewisler.com/online-workshops/
Also, the Writing the Heartache Online Workshops are still offered as they have been for seven years. The next one starts March 28th and is tailored for all who want to write from seasons of grief and loss.
Feel free to pass this along to others who might benefit from either of these workshops.
Thank you!
~ Alice J. Wisler
Daniel's Mom (August 25, 1992---February 2, 1997)
http://www.alicewisler.com
I'm excited to announce a new offering on my website! "Writing the Psalms" is a three-week online workshop with a two-fold objective: To get you to incorporate the psalms into your own daily life as tools for worship and to discover how writing your own psalms brings new dynamics and strength into your creativity. We'll take a look at a number of biblical psalms and write our own psalms of praise and woe.
Join us! The new course starts March 14 and ends April 1. And it can all be completed in the comfort of you own home. Read more here: http://www.alicewisler.com/online-workshops/
Also, the Writing the Heartache Online Workshops are still offered as they have been for seven years. The next one starts March 28th and is tailored for all who want to write from seasons of grief and loss.
Feel free to pass this along to others who might benefit from either of these workshops.
Thank you!
~ Alice J. Wisler
Daniel's Mom (August 25, 1992---February 2, 1997)
http://www.alicewisler.com
Friday, February 18, 2011
WHOLE NOVEL WORKSHOP FOR FANTASY
If you’re a fan of children’s fantasy, then it’s likely that you’ve read
and loved the work of two of fantasy’s best: Laura Ruby and Anne Ursu.
Laura authored the standout books The Wall and the Wing and its sequel The
Chaos King. Anne penned the amazing middle grade novel, The Shadow Thieves.
Most of us would stand in line a long time to get either author’s
autography, but now a select eight writers will have the opportunity to
spend an entire week learning directly from these two fantasy stars!
Join Laura and Anne for the Whole Novel Workshop for Fantasy, May 1–8,
2011. These two outstanding writers will mentor you toward significant
improvement on your novel. In this workshop, Laura and Anne will discuss
issues of craft along with issues specific to the genre, including
• using physical details to build a vivid fantasy world;
• defining your magical system without losing a sense of wonder;
• ensuring your characters are as interesting as your world;
• communicating your world through your storytelling; and
• finding the right narrative voice.
Fantasy lovers often become fantasy writers, but few have a chance to learn
directly from authors of such renown. Whole Novel Workshops are by
application, and applications must be submitted by February 25 for
consideration. For more information, contact Jo Lloyd at 570-253-1192,
e-mail jo.lloyd@highlightsfoundation.org, or request an application online.
Applicants will be notified of acceptance by March 15, 2011.
Highlights Foundation Founders Workshops take place near Honesdale,
Pennsylvania. You’ll stay in your own cozy cabin, surrounded by 1,300
wooded acres and hiking trails. Workshop tuition includes individual
cabins; all meals (provided by a top-notch chef); airport pickup service,
if needed; and an intimate teaching setting at the home place of the
Founders of Highlights for Children.
Please feel free to share this e-mail with others who might have an
interest or to include the information in blog posts or through other
social networking forums.
Jo Lloyd
Program Assistant
Highlights Foundation, 814 Court Street, Honesdale, PA 18431
Phone: (877) 512-8365 (toll-free) or (570) 251-4557
Fax: (570) 253-0179
jalloyd@highlightsfoundation.org
http://www.highlightsfoundation.org/
and loved the work of two of fantasy’s best: Laura Ruby and Anne Ursu.
Laura authored the standout books The Wall and the Wing and its sequel The
Chaos King. Anne penned the amazing middle grade novel, The Shadow Thieves.
Most of us would stand in line a long time to get either author’s
autography, but now a select eight writers will have the opportunity to
spend an entire week learning directly from these two fantasy stars!
Join Laura and Anne for the Whole Novel Workshop for Fantasy, May 1–8,
2011. These two outstanding writers will mentor you toward significant
improvement on your novel. In this workshop, Laura and Anne will discuss
issues of craft along with issues specific to the genre, including
• using physical details to build a vivid fantasy world;
• defining your magical system without losing a sense of wonder;
• ensuring your characters are as interesting as your world;
• communicating your world through your storytelling; and
• finding the right narrative voice.
Fantasy lovers often become fantasy writers, but few have a chance to learn
directly from authors of such renown. Whole Novel Workshops are by
application, and applications must be submitted by February 25 for
consideration. For more information, contact Jo Lloyd at 570-253-1192,
e-mail jo.lloyd@highlightsfoundation.org, or request an application online.
Applicants will be notified of acceptance by March 15, 2011.
Highlights Foundation Founders Workshops take place near Honesdale,
Pennsylvania. You’ll stay in your own cozy cabin, surrounded by 1,300
wooded acres and hiking trails. Workshop tuition includes individual
cabins; all meals (provided by a top-notch chef); airport pickup service,
if needed; and an intimate teaching setting at the home place of the
Founders of Highlights for Children.
Please feel free to share this e-mail with others who might have an
interest or to include the information in blog posts or through other
social networking forums.
Jo Lloyd
Program Assistant
Highlights Foundation, 814 Court Street, Honesdale, PA 18431
Phone: (877) 512-8365 (toll-free) or (570) 251-4557
Fax: (570) 253-0179
jalloyd@highlightsfoundation.org
http://www.highlightsfoundation.org/
Thursday, February 17, 2011
NATIONAL CHRISTIAN WRITERS CONFERENCE
Antonio L. Crawford hosts bestselling authors Hugh Ballou, Kathi Macias, Pam Perry, Sherita Herring, Michelle Anton, and others at the upcoming National Christian Writers Conference. The annual event will be held at the San Diego Convention Center in San Diego, CA, on Saturday, Mar. 26, 2011, from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Several workshops that will help writers expand their creativity and accomplish their goals are scheduled.
The National Christian Writers Conference will include a full day of sharing innovative techniques and information on how to write, publish and promote books in the Christian marketplace. Award winning authors, publishers, publicists and speakers will share their knowledge on how to succeed in the Christian publishing industry.
The National Christian Writers Conference provides information and resources to people who want to write, publish and promote books that heal, inspire and speak to the hearts of readers. The conference for writers is committed to building a literary platform to encourage people who are ready to take risks to improve their skill and talent in the Christian marketplace.
Here are just a few of the benefits of attending the National Christian Writers Conference. Participants will learn how easy it is to:
Stay on Topic, on Target …& on Time
Write a Best-Selling Story using Character, Tone and Plot
Create Your Voice in Writing
Find Your Publishing Destiny
Convert Your Book into Multiple Informational Products
Get Noticed by Top Literary Agents
Build a Successful Social Media Campaign
Sell Books on the Radio (and All Around Town)
Find Money for Your Next Book Project, Business or Ministry
Turn Your Book into a Six-Figure Digital Dynasty
Build Wealth Through Speaking
Create Your Million-Dollar Message…and more
Attendees may register online at www.NCWCFR.com.
The National Christian Writers Conference will include a full day of sharing innovative techniques and information on how to write, publish and promote books in the Christian marketplace. Award winning authors, publishers, publicists and speakers will share their knowledge on how to succeed in the Christian publishing industry.
The National Christian Writers Conference provides information and resources to people who want to write, publish and promote books that heal, inspire and speak to the hearts of readers. The conference for writers is committed to building a literary platform to encourage people who are ready to take risks to improve their skill and talent in the Christian marketplace.
Here are just a few of the benefits of attending the National Christian Writers Conference. Participants will learn how easy it is to:
Stay on Topic, on Target …& on Time
Write a Best-Selling Story using Character, Tone and Plot
Create Your Voice in Writing
Find Your Publishing Destiny
Convert Your Book into Multiple Informational Products
Get Noticed by Top Literary Agents
Build a Successful Social Media Campaign
Sell Books on the Radio (and All Around Town)
Find Money for Your Next Book Project, Business or Ministry
Turn Your Book into a Six-Figure Digital Dynasty
Build Wealth Through Speaking
Create Your Million-Dollar Message…and more
Attendees may register online at www.NCWCFR.com.
NEW MEDIA INTERNSHIPS OFFERED
The World Journalism Institute, countering trends in today's media climate, is placing multiple interns in newsrooms around the country. The 2011 multi-week New York course held in May and June will equip students with the tools needed for jobs in convergence journalism.
In the last year alone, WJI alumni have put their convergence skills to use in jobs such as digital newswriter for WTOP.com (Washington, D.C.), digital content editor for The Daily Report (Atlanta), multimedia reporter for the Asheville Citizen-Times, blogger for The Evangelical Outpost, producer for NHL.com, and producer for the Bill Bennett Show. This year WJI grads have also interned or been hired by such news organizations as the Des Moines Register, Metro (N.Y.), Detroit News, Raleigh News & Observer, Chattanooga Times Free Press, Comcast Sportsnet, and Military.com.
The focus of the 2011 WJI course continues to be training in convergence media using video, photography, podcasting, radio and print media. Internship stipends for the most promising students may be awarded. Each student will complete four multimedia stories for posting on WJI's webzine, The Times Observer.
Dr. Michael Ray Smith (Campbell University) is the WJI John McCandlish Phillips Journalist of the year. Other instructors include Russell Pulliam (Indianapolis Star), Michael Chute (Union University), Joe Battaglia (Renaissance Communications), Clayton Sizemore (CNN), John Frost (Goodratings Strategic Services), Les Sillars (Patrick Henry College), and Roy Atwood (New St. Andrews College). Udo Middelmann of the Francis Schaeffer Foundation in Switzerland, will be the 2011 WJI Francis Schaeffer Scholar.
The annual eight-week journalism course costs $500 and is held May 15-July 9, 2011. There is a three-week residency component on the campus of The King's College in New York City and a five-week reporting component in the student's hometown. To apply for the course, go to the institute website and complete the online application.
The mission of the World Journalism Institute is to recruit, equip, place and encourage Christians in the mainstream newsrooms of America first and then the world.
For more information:
Kimberly Collins
World Journalism Institute
www.worldji.com
800-769-7870
kcollins@worldji.com
In the last year alone, WJI alumni have put their convergence skills to use in jobs such as digital newswriter for WTOP.com (Washington, D.C.), digital content editor for The Daily Report (Atlanta), multimedia reporter for the Asheville Citizen-Times, blogger for The Evangelical Outpost, producer for NHL.com, and producer for the Bill Bennett Show. This year WJI grads have also interned or been hired by such news organizations as the Des Moines Register, Metro (N.Y.), Detroit News, Raleigh News & Observer, Chattanooga Times Free Press, Comcast Sportsnet, and Military.com.
The focus of the 2011 WJI course continues to be training in convergence media using video, photography, podcasting, radio and print media. Internship stipends for the most promising students may be awarded. Each student will complete four multimedia stories for posting on WJI's webzine, The Times Observer.
Dr. Michael Ray Smith (Campbell University) is the WJI John McCandlish Phillips Journalist of the year. Other instructors include Russell Pulliam (Indianapolis Star), Michael Chute (Union University), Joe Battaglia (Renaissance Communications), Clayton Sizemore (CNN), John Frost (Goodratings Strategic Services), Les Sillars (Patrick Henry College), and Roy Atwood (New St. Andrews College). Udo Middelmann of the Francis Schaeffer Foundation in Switzerland, will be the 2011 WJI Francis Schaeffer Scholar.
The annual eight-week journalism course costs $500 and is held May 15-July 9, 2011. There is a three-week residency component on the campus of The King's College in New York City and a five-week reporting component in the student's hometown. To apply for the course, go to the institute website and complete the online application.
The mission of the World Journalism Institute is to recruit, equip, place and encourage Christians in the mainstream newsrooms of America first and then the world.
For more information:
Kimberly Collins
World Journalism Institute
www.worldji.com
800-769-7870
kcollins@worldji.com
Monday, February 14, 2011
TYNDALE HOUSE RECOGNIZED BY PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Publishers Weekly (PW), the preeminent American weekly trade newsmagazine targeted at publishers, librarians, booksellers, and literary agents, recently released Bestsellers ’10: The Year in Bestsellers. Tyndale House Publishers was eighth among all publishers—and first among all Christian publishers—in the number of bestsellers by corporation. Tyndale joined industry giants Random House Inc., Penguin USA, Hachette Book Group USA, Simon & Schuster, HarperCollins, Macmillan, and Hyperion in making PW’s exclusive top 10 list.
Friday, February 11, 2011
OPPORTUNITY FOR OREGON WRITERS
Oregon Report has two great opportunities for Oregon writers. This is a chance for local writers to increase their exposure and build a fan base in a way that is simple, fun and informative.
Oregon Faith Report: Oregon Faith Report is Oregon’s largest religion website with an average audience of 6,600 monthly unique visitors. Faith Report was created as a central news station to help promote the local activities and press releases of Oregon ministries and religious organizations. Oregon Faith Report is a non-sectarian religion news site that has found an audience of all Oregon faiths (Catholic, Evangelical, Jewish, Islamic). This means your writings can be seen by a wider religious audience than traditional opportunities.
Monthly Unique Visitors to various Oregon religion websites: (Oct 2010)
6,600 -- Oregon Faith Report
6,549 -- KPDQ
5,600 -- Catholic Sentinel
1,819 -- Oregon Jewish Review
1,199 -- Christian News Northwest
Writing for Oregon Faith Report is like writing for a small city newspaper
8,360 -- Beaverton Times
6,866 -- Tigard Times
6,600 -- Oregon Faith Report
4,123 -- Wilsonville Spokesman
Faith Report is looking for people of faith to talk about the news and activities going on in their community. For some, this is a much needed opportunity to publicize the exciting programs in their local church ministry (which are often skipped by the local newspapers). For other writers this is a chance to build an audience and grow their writing skills before a viewership of 6,000 people.
Oregon Women’s Report:Oregon Women’s Report is Oregon’s largest website for women. Women’s Report gives Oregon women a chance to talk about their experiences and ideas. Some of the current writers come from fascinating backgrounds like a Eugene News Anchorwoman, a relationships counselor, to a Portland comedian who did a comedy tour in Iraq.
Until the internet came along, the idea of women’s magazines was limited to tabloids and trashy TV talk shows. Now the average mom, working woman and youthful creative can pool their talents together to create a magazine that looks more like them and their values.
Women’s Report is looking for writers to write a once a month column. Articles can be about life lessons, advice, personal experiences or favorite activities. Size does not matter, just as long as it is interesting. Writing for Women’s Report is both fun and rewarding. It is more than just a blog it is a community. We host social dinner parties to exchange ideas and encourage each other. You can grow as a writer and as a person.
How to join the family: For more information on being a volunteer writer for Oregon Report please contact Jason at 503-644-1300 or news@oregonreport.com
Oregon Faith Report: Oregon Faith Report is Oregon’s largest religion website with an average audience of 6,600 monthly unique visitors. Faith Report was created as a central news station to help promote the local activities and press releases of Oregon ministries and religious organizations. Oregon Faith Report is a non-sectarian religion news site that has found an audience of all Oregon faiths (Catholic, Evangelical, Jewish, Islamic). This means your writings can be seen by a wider religious audience than traditional opportunities.
Monthly Unique Visitors to various Oregon religion websites: (Oct 2010)
6,600 -- Oregon Faith Report
6,549 -- KPDQ
5,600 -- Catholic Sentinel
1,819 -- Oregon Jewish Review
1,199 -- Christian News Northwest
Writing for Oregon Faith Report is like writing for a small city newspaper
8,360 -- Beaverton Times
6,866 -- Tigard Times
6,600 -- Oregon Faith Report
4,123 -- Wilsonville Spokesman
Faith Report is looking for people of faith to talk about the news and activities going on in their community. For some, this is a much needed opportunity to publicize the exciting programs in their local church ministry (which are often skipped by the local newspapers). For other writers this is a chance to build an audience and grow their writing skills before a viewership of 6,000 people.
Oregon Women’s Report:Oregon Women’s Report is Oregon’s largest website for women. Women’s Report gives Oregon women a chance to talk about their experiences and ideas. Some of the current writers come from fascinating backgrounds like a Eugene News Anchorwoman, a relationships counselor, to a Portland comedian who did a comedy tour in Iraq.
Until the internet came along, the idea of women’s magazines was limited to tabloids and trashy TV talk shows. Now the average mom, working woman and youthful creative can pool their talents together to create a magazine that looks more like them and their values.
Women’s Report is looking for writers to write a once a month column. Articles can be about life lessons, advice, personal experiences or favorite activities. Size does not matter, just as long as it is interesting. Writing for Women’s Report is both fun and rewarding. It is more than just a blog it is a community. We host social dinner parties to exchange ideas and encourage each other. You can grow as a writer and as a person.
How to join the family: For more information on being a volunteer writer for Oregon Report please contact Jason at 503-644-1300 or news@oregonreport.com
Thursday, February 10, 2011
CECIL MURPHEY--REASONS TO SMILE
Already well known for his warm smile and big hugs, veteran author Cecil Murphey has even more reasons to smile these days.
"90 Minutes in Heaven" (Revell), the book he wrote for Don Piper, has been on the "New York Times" Paperback Nonfiction bestseller list for 255 consecutive weeks. In addition, the book charted on two new lists that the "New York Times" will publish for the first time on February 13: the E-Book Bestsellers Nonfiction list and the Combined Print & E-Book Bestsellers list.
When Don Piper contacted Murphey to write "90 Minutes in Heaven," Murphey said, "I'm not interested in writing about a near-death experience."
"This was not near death," Don said. "I really died."
Murphey said he didn't believe him, and it took several weeks for Don to convince him. "Once I began to write the book, I knew it would be a big book. Just a gut feeling."
About a dozen publishers didn't agree with Murphey and turned it down, but he still believed in the project. "I had no idea it would stay on the bestseller lists and stay there so long." The book has appeared on several other bestseller lists and a feature film is now in the works.
But that's not all. Murphey recently learned that his most intimate book, "When a Man You Love Was Abused: A Woman's Guide to Helping Him Overcome Childhood Sexual Molestation" (Kregel, May 2010), has gone into its second printing. That's especially gratifying to him because it took six years to find a publisher willing to take the risk to print it. "There's no audience for this type of book," multiple editors said.
At 78 years old, Murphey is at the height of his career and going strong. In January, Regal Publishers released his 120th book, "Knowing God, Knowing Myself: An Invitation to Daily Discovery." Berkley (a division of Penguin Publishing) will release his fourth book with Don Piper, "Getting to Heaven: Departing Instructions for Your Life Now," on March 1. And he has five more books scheduled for publication in 2011.
Not only does Cecil Murphey stay busy writing and speaking nationwide, but he helps countless people through his two blogs -- one for writers ( www.cecwritertowriter.com), and the other blog is for male survivors of sexual abuse (www.menshatteringthesilence.blogspot.com). He and Twila Belk, his assistant, co-host the "Cec and Me" radio show, which airs live on Tuesday evenings at www.toginet.com/shows/cecandme.
For more information about Cecil Murphey, or to sign up for his monthly newsletter, visit www.cecilmurphey.com. For interview or booking requests, contact Twila Belk at twilabelk@mchsi.com or 563-332-1622.
"90 Minutes in Heaven" (Revell), the book he wrote for Don Piper, has been on the "New York Times" Paperback Nonfiction bestseller list for 255 consecutive weeks. In addition, the book charted on two new lists that the "New York Times" will publish for the first time on February 13: the E-Book Bestsellers Nonfiction list and the Combined Print & E-Book Bestsellers list.
When Don Piper contacted Murphey to write "90 Minutes in Heaven," Murphey said, "I'm not interested in writing about a near-death experience."
"This was not near death," Don said. "I really died."
Murphey said he didn't believe him, and it took several weeks for Don to convince him. "Once I began to write the book, I knew it would be a big book. Just a gut feeling."
About a dozen publishers didn't agree with Murphey and turned it down, but he still believed in the project. "I had no idea it would stay on the bestseller lists and stay there so long." The book has appeared on several other bestseller lists and a feature film is now in the works.
But that's not all. Murphey recently learned that his most intimate book, "When a Man You Love Was Abused: A Woman's Guide to Helping Him Overcome Childhood Sexual Molestation" (Kregel, May 2010), has gone into its second printing. That's especially gratifying to him because it took six years to find a publisher willing to take the risk to print it. "There's no audience for this type of book," multiple editors said.
At 78 years old, Murphey is at the height of his career and going strong. In January, Regal Publishers released his 120th book, "Knowing God, Knowing Myself: An Invitation to Daily Discovery." Berkley (a division of Penguin Publishing) will release his fourth book with Don Piper, "Getting to Heaven: Departing Instructions for Your Life Now," on March 1. And he has five more books scheduled for publication in 2011.
Not only does Cecil Murphey stay busy writing and speaking nationwide, but he helps countless people through his two blogs -- one for writers ( www.cecwritertowriter.com), and the other blog is for male survivors of sexual abuse (www.menshatteringthesilence.blogspot.com). He and Twila Belk, his assistant, co-host the "Cec and Me" radio show, which airs live on Tuesday evenings at www.toginet.com/shows/cecandme.
For more information about Cecil Murphey, or to sign up for his monthly newsletter, visit www.cecilmurphey.com. For interview or booking requests, contact Twila Belk at twilabelk@mchsi.com or 563-332-1622.
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLERS - WEEK OF FEBRUARY 13
Heaven Is For Real by Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent (Thomas Nelson) is #1 on the paperback nonfiction list.
The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman (Northfield/Moody) is #1 on the paperback advice list.
Crazy Love by Francis Chan with Danae Yankoski (David C. Cook) is #4 on the paperback advice list.
Radical by David Platt (Multnomah) is #6 on the paperback advice list.
Made to Crave by Lysa TerKeurst (Zondervan) is #7 on the paperback advice list.
The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey (Thomas Nelson) is #8 on the hardcover business list.
The Love Dare by Stephen and Alex Kendrick with Lawrence Kimbrough (B&H Publishing) is #11 on the paperback advice list.
The Purpose-Driven Life by Rick Warren (Zondervan) is #15 on the paperback advice list.
The Shack by William P. Young (Windblown Media) is #21 on the paperback trade fiction list.
90 Minutes In Heaven by Don Piper with Cecil Murphey (Revell/Baker) is #23 on the paperback nonfiction list.
Same Kind of Different as Me by Ron Hall and Denver Moore with Lynn Vincent (Thomas Nelson) is #27 on the paperback nonfiction list.
The Reason for God by Timothy Keller (Riverhead) is #31 on the paperback nonfiction list.
The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman (Northfield/Moody) is #1 on the paperback advice list.
Crazy Love by Francis Chan with Danae Yankoski (David C. Cook) is #4 on the paperback advice list.
Radical by David Platt (Multnomah) is #6 on the paperback advice list.
Made to Crave by Lysa TerKeurst (Zondervan) is #7 on the paperback advice list.
The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey (Thomas Nelson) is #8 on the hardcover business list.
The Love Dare by Stephen and Alex Kendrick with Lawrence Kimbrough (B&H Publishing) is #11 on the paperback advice list.
The Purpose-Driven Life by Rick Warren (Zondervan) is #15 on the paperback advice list.
The Shack by William P. Young (Windblown Media) is #21 on the paperback trade fiction list.
90 Minutes In Heaven by Don Piper with Cecil Murphey (Revell/Baker) is #23 on the paperback nonfiction list.
Same Kind of Different as Me by Ron Hall and Denver Moore with Lynn Vincent (Thomas Nelson) is #27 on the paperback nonfiction list.
The Reason for God by Timothy Keller (Riverhead) is #31 on the paperback nonfiction list.
THOMAS NELSON NAMES NEW ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
Thomas Nelson, Inc. announced today the promotion of Bryan Norman to the position of Associate Publisher, Nonfiction Trade Group. In his new role, Norman will be responsible for day-to-day operations and strategic list building for one of Thomas Nelson’s two nonfiction book divisions, as well as continuing to edit key projects and acquiring new authors. [
VADA DIGITAL DISTRIBUTION CREATES CHRISTIAN DIVISION
Vada Digital is proud to announce the launch of Vada Christian's Digital Division. The announcement was made today by Heather Crawley, VP of Operations for Vada Digital.
Christian Digital Sales has increased 100% over the past 4 years and with the increase Vada Digital has developed a Christian division that will offer labels, artists, and film studios services that are not currently offered by other digital distribution companies. Vada currently offers digital distribution for the following formats; Albums, Singles, EP, Sermons, Audio Books, Ringtones, Ringbacks, Voice Tones, Music Video, Feature Films, Short Films, and E Books. Vada in addition, offers conversion servicing, cd cover designs, marketing and much more.
For indie artist, Vada has created an indie program where an indie artist or band can pay just $20.00 for each content release as well as receive 90% of all gross proceeds.
Vada Digital has over 10,000 digital partners in over 100 countries.
Christian Digital Sales has increased 100% over the past 4 years and with the increase Vada Digital has developed a Christian division that will offer labels, artists, and film studios services that are not currently offered by other digital distribution companies. Vada currently offers digital distribution for the following formats; Albums, Singles, EP, Sermons, Audio Books, Ringtones, Ringbacks, Voice Tones, Music Video, Feature Films, Short Films, and E Books. Vada in addition, offers conversion servicing, cd cover designs, marketing and much more.
For indie artist, Vada has created an indie program where an indie artist or band can pay just $20.00 for each content release as well as receive 90% of all gross proceeds.
Vada Digital has over 10,000 digital partners in over 100 countries.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
B & H ANNOUNCES NEW PUBLISHING STRATEGY
Selma Wilson, president of B&H Publishing Group, addressed B&H team members during a Jan. 28 divisional meeting and delivered an assessment of her first 90 days in her role.
Wilson’s remarks included a strategy and leadership change to enhance the organization’s effectiveness and reach built around “a resolve toward missional engagement and ministry and business commitment.”
John Thompson, B&H’s vice president of marketing for more than a decade, will assume the role of vice president of acquisitions. In addition to his 20-plus years publishing experience, Thompson “brings his ministry and marketing partnership strengths to the acquisitions role, as well as his agent/contract capabilities,” Wilson said.
Mary Katharine Hunt, formerly director of LifeWay Kids in LifeWay’s church resources division, will fill Thompson’s former position as vice president of marketing. Hunt has more than 15 years of marketing experience and brand management. According to Wilson, Hunt’s “strengths in new media and digital marketing knowledge and experience as a product development team leader will be a tremendous asset to B&H.”
Hunt said the work B&H has already done in digital publishing and marketing “will be a building block for the future.” In addition to the recently launched MyStudyBible.com platform, B&H also has a variety of individually branded applications for Apple’s iPhone and iPad, with several more in development. Six of the apps have been ranked among the top 150 paid apps in the books category.
Wilson also announced the decision to discontinue the Fidelis imprint. Thompson explained “B&H launched Fidelis Books two years ago to produce quality books for patriotic consumers. We successfully published titles by individuals who shape national opinion. Despite that success, we feel the need to offer greater focus on our base as a distinctively Christian publisher.”
Wilson’s remarks included a strategy and leadership change to enhance the organization’s effectiveness and reach built around “a resolve toward missional engagement and ministry and business commitment.”
John Thompson, B&H’s vice president of marketing for more than a decade, will assume the role of vice president of acquisitions. In addition to his 20-plus years publishing experience, Thompson “brings his ministry and marketing partnership strengths to the acquisitions role, as well as his agent/contract capabilities,” Wilson said.
Mary Katharine Hunt, formerly director of LifeWay Kids in LifeWay’s church resources division, will fill Thompson’s former position as vice president of marketing. Hunt has more than 15 years of marketing experience and brand management. According to Wilson, Hunt’s “strengths in new media and digital marketing knowledge and experience as a product development team leader will be a tremendous asset to B&H.”
Hunt said the work B&H has already done in digital publishing and marketing “will be a building block for the future.” In addition to the recently launched MyStudyBible.com platform, B&H also has a variety of individually branded applications for Apple’s iPhone and iPad, with several more in development. Six of the apps have been ranked among the top 150 paid apps in the books category.
Wilson also announced the decision to discontinue the Fidelis imprint. Thompson explained “B&H launched Fidelis Books two years ago to produce quality books for patriotic consumers. We successfully published titles by individuals who shape national opinion. Despite that success, we feel the need to offer greater focus on our base as a distinctively Christian publisher.”
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
CHRISTIAN WRITERS CONFERENCE LIST UP
Just wanted to announce that I finally have the 2011 listing of Christian Writers' Conferences up on my Website. Just go to www.stuartmarket.com and click on "Conferences." I'm sorry I wasn't able to get them into any sort of order. Am working on that.
Monday, February 7, 2011
OC WRITING CONTESTS
Attendees of the OC Christian Writers Conference held on April 29 & 30, Irvine, California, are eligible to participate in a Fiction Writing Contest. First place winner will receive $250, special recognition and a private meeting with an agent or editor regarding his/her writing; second place will receive $150, and third place will receive $75. All participants' names and story titles will be published on the OCCWF website. Deadline for submissions is March 31, 2011. Finalists will be judged by speculative fiction author and Marcher Lord Press publisher Jeff Gerke.
The conference will also feature the Westbow Press Writing Contest, Beverly Bush Smith Aspiring Writer Award for new authors, a Devotional Writing Contest, and the Memoir Writing Contest. There is no additional fee for entering contests, but all entrants must be paid attendees of the conference and be present to win. Winners will be announced at the conference. See submission guidelines for rules and deadlines. For more information go to www.occwf.org.
The conference will accommodate a wide range of writing needs and learning experiences. Conference speakers Simon Tolkien, grandson of J.R.R. Tolkien, and Loyola Press Editor Vinita Wright spearhead a diverse panel of publishers, editors, novelists, bloggers, screenwriters, columnists, and freelance editors featuring 27 workshops, four book acquisition editors, three literary agents, two keynote speakers, and up to two consultations with a faculty member of your choice.
The conference accommodates writers of all levels and genres: Editor in Chief of Christian Communicator Manuscript Critique Service, Susan Osborn will be teaching a "Before You Begin" workshop for curious/beginning writers; Senior Editor at Harvest House, Rod Morris will coach on "Dialogue Do's & Don'ts"; Merrie Destefano will teach on the importance of, "Backstory: The Invisible Spine of the Novel", just to name a few examples. April 29th, Friday's workshops, will be two separate, limited availability, intensive sessions for writing fiction and memoirs.
The OC Christian Writers Conference is one of the longest running writers conferences in California, now in its 27th year. Its partnership with WestBow Press reflects the quality of the faculty and writers who attend. The OC Christian Writers Conference is dedicated to bringing in the best speakers, editors, and authors to mentor and instruct writers in almost every avenue of writing. By featuring writing contests and awards, the conference works to single out writers of exceptional talent and promise. See submission guidelines for rules and deadline. For more information go to www.occwf.org
The conference will also feature the Westbow Press Writing Contest, Beverly Bush Smith Aspiring Writer Award for new authors, a Devotional Writing Contest, and the Memoir Writing Contest. There is no additional fee for entering contests, but all entrants must be paid attendees of the conference and be present to win. Winners will be announced at the conference. See submission guidelines for rules and deadlines. For more information go to www.occwf.org.
The conference will accommodate a wide range of writing needs and learning experiences. Conference speakers Simon Tolkien, grandson of J.R.R. Tolkien, and Loyola Press Editor Vinita Wright spearhead a diverse panel of publishers, editors, novelists, bloggers, screenwriters, columnists, and freelance editors featuring 27 workshops, four book acquisition editors, three literary agents, two keynote speakers, and up to two consultations with a faculty member of your choice.
The conference accommodates writers of all levels and genres: Editor in Chief of Christian Communicator Manuscript Critique Service, Susan Osborn will be teaching a "Before You Begin" workshop for curious/beginning writers; Senior Editor at Harvest House, Rod Morris will coach on "Dialogue Do's & Don'ts"; Merrie Destefano will teach on the importance of, "Backstory: The Invisible Spine of the Novel", just to name a few examples. April 29th, Friday's workshops, will be two separate, limited availability, intensive sessions for writing fiction and memoirs.
The OC Christian Writers Conference is one of the longest running writers conferences in California, now in its 27th year. Its partnership with WestBow Press reflects the quality of the faculty and writers who attend. The OC Christian Writers Conference is dedicated to bringing in the best speakers, editors, and authors to mentor and instruct writers in almost every avenue of writing. By featuring writing contests and awards, the conference works to single out writers of exceptional talent and promise. See submission guidelines for rules and deadline. For more information go to www.occwf.org
ACFW CAROL AWARDS
Happy Monday, ACFW. Well, even with last week's wintry mess and icy roads,
your Carol Award entries still rolled in at a steady pace. Remember, all
entries (forms, payment, and books) must be received by *March 18, 2011*.
You will receive a confirmation email once I have all components of your
entry. If you have submitted an entry and have NOT received confirmation,
please contact me at carolawards@acfw.com .
Here's where we stand today:
- *Debut Author*--Stands alone
- *Contemporary Novella*--Needs *2* more entries
- *Historical Novella*--Needs *3* more entries
- *Long Contemporary*--Needs *1 *more entry
- *Long Contemporary Romance*--Stands alone
- *Long Historical*--Needs *5* more entries
- *Long Historical Romance*--Stands alone
- *Mystery*--Needs *3* more entries
- *Romantic Suspense*--Needs *2* more entries
- *Short Contemporary*--Stands alone
- *Short Contemporary Suspense*--Stands alone
- *Short Historical*--Needs *1 *more entry
- *Speculative* (includes Sci-fi, fantasy, allegory, etc)--Needs *6* more
entries
- *Suspense/Thriller*--Needs *4* more entries
- *Women's Fiction*--Needs *4* more entries
- *Young Adult*--Needs *5* more entries
"Stand alone" means there are enough entries in that category that it will
not need to be combined with another category.
Guidelines a nd eligibility criteria can be found at http://acfw.com/carol
your Carol Award entries still rolled in at a steady pace. Remember, all
entries (forms, payment, and books) must be received by *March 18, 2011*.
You will receive a confirmation email once I have all components of your
entry. If you have submitted an entry and have NOT received confirmation,
please contact me at carolawards@acfw.com .
Here's where we stand today:
- *Debut Author*--Stands alone
- *Contemporary Novella*--Needs *2* more entries
- *Historical Novella*--Needs *3* more entries
- *Long Contemporary*--Needs *1 *more entry
- *Long Contemporary Romance*--Stands alone
- *Long Historical*--Needs *5* more entries
- *Long Historical Romance*--Stands alone
- *Mystery*--Needs *3* more entries
- *Romantic Suspense*--Needs *2* more entries
- *Short Contemporary*--Stands alone
- *Short Contemporary Suspense*--Stands alone
- *Short Historical*--Needs *1 *more entry
- *Speculative* (includes Sci-fi, fantasy, allegory, etc)--Needs *6* more
entries
- *Suspense/Thriller*--Needs *4* more entries
- *Women's Fiction*--Needs *4* more entries
- *Young Adult*--Needs *5* more entries
"Stand alone" means there are enough entries in that category that it will
not need to be combined with another category.
Guidelines a nd eligibility criteria can be found at http://acfw.com/carol
FAITH, HOPE & LOVE CONTEST OPEN
The Faith, Hope, and Love chapter of Romance Writer’s of America is now accepting entries to their 11th Annual Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award. The IRCA is a unique contest in that it is only for Inspirational fiction and is judged by readers, not industry professionals, of Inspirational fiction. The IRCA has seven categories for books: Long Contemporary, Short Contemporary, Long Historical, Short Historical, Women’s Fiction, Romantic Suspense, and Novella.
This is the link to find out more about the IRCA: http://www.faithhopelove-rwa.org/irc.html
The IRCA is a wonderful way for authors to market their books. They will connect with at least four readers, who may not have read them previously. Many of our readers love to share their books at church, or with friends.
This is the link to find out more about the IRCA: http://www.faithhopelove-rwa.org/irc.html
The IRCA is a wonderful way for authors to market their books. They will connect with at least four readers, who may not have read them previously. Many of our readers love to share their books at church, or with friends.
HIGHLIGHTS WORKSHOP SCHOLARSHIPS
I know many of you have already spread the word about the scholarship
program for the annual Highlights Foundation Writers Workshop at Chautauqua
. The deadline for having applications in the mail to us is Saturday, Feb.
12, 2011. We'd love to see children's writers and illustrators, who need
financial assistance in order to spend a week with our more than 25
exceptional faculty, be able to attend this workshop. It takes place July
16-23, 2011, in western New York at the Chautauqua Institution. For an
application, and for more information, please contact Jo Lloyd, e-mail:
jo.lloyd@highlightsfoundation.org, or phone, toll-free, 877-512-8365.
Cordially,
Jo
Jo Lloyd
Program Assistant
Highlights Foundation, 814 Court Street, Honesdale, PA 18431
Phone: (877) 512-8365 (toll-free) or (570) 251-4557
Fax: (570) 253-0179
jalloyd@highlightsfoundation.org
http://www.highlightsfoundation.org/
program for the annual Highlights Foundation Writers Workshop at Chautauqua
. The deadline for having applications in the mail to us is Saturday, Feb.
12, 2011. We'd love to see children's writers and illustrators, who need
financial assistance in order to spend a week with our more than 25
exceptional faculty, be able to attend this workshop. It takes place July
16-23, 2011, in western New York at the Chautauqua Institution. For an
application, and for more information, please contact Jo Lloyd, e-mail:
jo.lloyd@highlightsfoundation.org, or phone, toll-free, 877-512-8365.
Cordially,
Jo
Jo Lloyd
Program Assistant
Highlights Foundation, 814 Court Street, Honesdale, PA 18431
Phone: (877) 512-8365 (toll-free) or (570) 251-4557
Fax: (570) 253-0179
jalloyd@highlightsfoundation.org
http://www.highlightsfoundation.org/
QUAD-CITY WRITERS CONFERENCE
Do you want to make a difference with your words?
Does the burning message inside of you need to find a way out?
Consider the Quad-Cities Christian Writers' Conference April 8-9 in Eldridge, Iowa.
This year's conference offers a great faculty lineup, powerful keynote messages, and a wide variety of sessions. We've included blogging and screenwriting classes and a new, exclusive-to-the-QCCWC writer's studio with Susan May Warren. But that's not all! See www.QCCWC.com for complete conference details and registration information.
Who should attend the QCCWC?
--aspiring writers who want to learn the craft
--intermediate writers who want to hone their skills
--pastors who want to learn how to turn their sermons into marketable
materials
--people who want to make extra money through freelancing
--communicators who need direction, encouragement, and inspiration
--sluggish writers who need a kick in their pants
--men and women who want to network and develop friendships with other
writers
--people who want to experience God at work (He's always at work at the
QCCWC.)
--those who just GOTTA TELL SOMEBODY!
We hope to see YOU in April!
Here's what others have to say about the QCCWC:
(Click on the picture or go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwgWSr_AcLo.)
Gotta Tell Somebody, Inc. 4350 Tanglewood Road Bettendorf, IA 52722
Does the burning message inside of you need to find a way out?
Consider the Quad-Cities Christian Writers' Conference April 8-9 in Eldridge, Iowa.
This year's conference offers a great faculty lineup, powerful keynote messages, and a wide variety of sessions. We've included blogging and screenwriting classes and a new, exclusive-to-the-QCCWC writer's studio with Susan May Warren. But that's not all! See www.QCCWC.com for complete conference details and registration information.
Who should attend the QCCWC?
--aspiring writers who want to learn the craft
--intermediate writers who want to hone their skills
--pastors who want to learn how to turn their sermons into marketable
materials
--people who want to make extra money through freelancing
--communicators who need direction, encouragement, and inspiration
--sluggish writers who need a kick in their pants
--men and women who want to network and develop friendships with other
writers
--people who want to experience God at work (He's always at work at the
QCCWC.)
--those who just GOTTA TELL SOMEBODY!
We hope to see YOU in April!
Here's what others have to say about the QCCWC:
(Click on the picture or go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwgWSr_AcLo.)
Gotta Tell Somebody, Inc. 4350 Tanglewood Road Bettendorf, IA 52722
Friday, February 4, 2011
VADA DIGITAL DISTRIBUTION
Vada Digital is proud to announce the launch of Vada Christian's Digital Division. The announcement was made today by Heather Crawley, VP of Operations for Vada Digital.
Christian Digital Sales has increased 100% over the past 4 years and with the increase Vada Digital has developed a Christian division that will offer labels, artists, and film studios services that are not currently offered by other digital distribution companies. Vada currently offers digital distribution for the following formats; Albums, Singles, EP, Sermons, Audio Books, Ringtones, Ringbacks, Voice Tones, Music Video, Feature Films, Short Films, and E Books. Vada in addition, offers conversion servicing, cd cover designs, marketing and much more.
For indie artist, Vada has created an indie program where an indie artist or band can pay just $20.00 for each content release as well as receive 90% of all gross proceeds.
Vada Digital has over 10,000 digital partners in over 100 countries.
About Vada Digital
Vada Digital offers global online and mobile distribution services to over thousands accounts in 100 countries. We manage the marketing and distribution of audio, ebook, ringtone and video products. Our services are comprehensive and include content preparation, asset management, marketing, account management, reporting, and consolidated statements.
Christian Digital Sales has increased 100% over the past 4 years and with the increase Vada Digital has developed a Christian division that will offer labels, artists, and film studios services that are not currently offered by other digital distribution companies. Vada currently offers digital distribution for the following formats; Albums, Singles, EP, Sermons, Audio Books, Ringtones, Ringbacks, Voice Tones, Music Video, Feature Films, Short Films, and E Books. Vada in addition, offers conversion servicing, cd cover designs, marketing and much more.
For indie artist, Vada has created an indie program where an indie artist or band can pay just $20.00 for each content release as well as receive 90% of all gross proceeds.
Vada Digital has over 10,000 digital partners in over 100 countries.
About Vada Digital
Vada Digital offers global online and mobile distribution services to over thousands accounts in 100 countries. We manage the marketing and distribution of audio, ebook, ringtone and video products. Our services are comprehensive and include content preparation, asset management, marketing, account management, reporting, and consolidated statements.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
CHRISTIAN SMALL PUBLISHER BOOK AWARDS
Voting is now open for the Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year Award. The Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year Award honors books produced by small publishers for outstanding contribution to Christian life. All readers of Christian books and all retailers selling Christian products are invited to vote for the Book of the Year.
Readers and retailers are invited to vote for one book in each category online at www.ChristianBookAward.com. The award is offered in eight categories: Fiction, Biography, Christian Living, Relationships/Family, Bible Study/Theology, Children's Book (4-8 years), Children's Book (8-12 years), and Young Adult (12+ years). The winners of this award are determined solely by Christian retailers and readers' votes.
Voting on the awards is open until March 31, 2010. Christian retailers are encouraged to display the books they vote for in their stores during the month of March in honor of Small Press Month.
Winners of the Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year Award will be announced on April 15, 2011.
This is the fourth year the Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year Award has been presented. This year the award has a new website at www.ChristianBookAward.com.
Readers and retailers are invited to vote for one book in each category online at www.ChristianBookAward.com. The award is offered in eight categories: Fiction, Biography, Christian Living, Relationships/Family, Bible Study/Theology, Children's Book (4-8 years), Children's Book (8-12 years), and Young Adult (12+ years). The winners of this award are determined solely by Christian retailers and readers' votes.
Voting on the awards is open until March 31, 2010. Christian retailers are encouraged to display the books they vote for in their stores during the month of March in honor of Small Press Month.
Winners of the Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year Award will be announced on April 15, 2011.
This is the fourth year the Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year Award has been presented. This year the award has a new website at www.ChristianBookAward.com.
AN IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT
As we often hear--"All good things must come to an end." And so it is with my work with the Christian Writers' Market Guide. Today I'm announcing that the market guide has been sold to Jerry Jenkins and the Christian Writers Guild. I could not be happier with this transition. Their involvement with writers and commitment to training writers for the Kingdom makes them the perfect match to carry the work of the guide forward. However, it is with no little regret that I end my 26+ years involvement with the guide. The guild will pick up the work starting with the 2012 edition.
For me, this just marks semi-retirement. I will continue to speak at conferences, evaluate book contracts and book proposals, and sell the 2011 market guides and other resources from my Website. I have also given up my "Write Market" column in the Christian Communicator, but will continue the column in The Advanced Christian Writer. Michael Ehret of the Christian Writers Guild will pick up the "Write Market" column beginning with the June issue.
I will continue my blog for now and look forward to an ongoing relationshiop with writers--my favorite people. Thanks to all who have supported me so faithfully over all the years of doing the guide.
For me, this just marks semi-retirement. I will continue to speak at conferences, evaluate book contracts and book proposals, and sell the 2011 market guides and other resources from my Website. I have also given up my "Write Market" column in the Christian Communicator, but will continue the column in The Advanced Christian Writer. Michael Ehret of the Christian Writers Guild will pick up the "Write Market" column beginning with the June issue.
I will continue my blog for now and look forward to an ongoing relationshiop with writers--my favorite people. Thanks to all who have supported me so faithfully over all the years of doing the guide.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
BAKER BOOKS HIRES
Baker Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group, recently added to their editorial and marketing teams with the hiring of three industry veterans. Jon Wilcox joins the Baker Books editorial team as Senior Acquisitions Editor. Wilcox comes to Baker from Family Christian Stores, where he held positions as Associate Vice President of Merchandise and Senior Book Buyer. Prior to that, Wilcox, who has over 18 years experience in the CBA market, also held positions with Tyndale House Publishers and Waterbrook Multnomah. Mike Cook also joins Baker Books as Marketing Manager, Books and Bibles. Cook comes to Baker from Zondervan where he was Marketing Director, for the Church Engagement Group Prior to that, he was in account services with several advertising agencies in West Michigan, and he served as a pastor for ten years. . Cook is a graduate of Concordia Theological Seminary where he earned a Master of Divinity in Pastoral Theology. Ruth Anderson also joins Baker Books as Marketing Assistant, Books and Bibles. Prior to joining Baker, Anderson was with InterVarsity Press for nearly five years, most recently as Marketing Manager.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
TOP 50 BEST SELLING CHRISTIAN BOOKS
Based on retail sales activity of Christian books in the U.S., ECPA announces the Top 50 Bestselling Christian Books and the Top 20 Authors for 2010. By combining title rankings and sales analytics from booksellers around the country, with online and direct mail distributor sales, this year's list represents the most popular Christian content of 2010.
Many recognizable names and titles adorn the Top 50 list once again for 2010. Such notables fill the top three spots: Gary Chapman's The Five Love Languages (Moody Publishers), The Love Dare by Stephen & Alex Kendrick (B&H Publishing Group) and the 2007 runaway bestseller, The Shack by William Paul Young (Windblown Media).
“The 2010 list represents a very diverse sample of retail activity, including the mass market, which may have favored titles with a tried and true presence in a market place that was possibly not as receptive to new titles, due to the struggling economy" says ECPA’s Information & Education Director Michael Covington.
“The absence of a new release among these top spots is not a concern as the rest of the list is populated by more recent titles such as Jesus Calling (Sarah Young, Thomas Nelson Publishers) and Crazy Love (Francis Chan, David C Cook), both of which seem to be following closely in the footsteps of the top three, as sales data would reveal their rankings outside of Christian retail channel are notable, though not quite as high."
"Christian book buyers are not all the same," says Covington. "While Christian content enjoys very broad distribution today, it's obvious that certain titles sell better through channels that are shopped more heavily by the core Christian book consumer." To demonstrate this, ECPA also produced a Top 50 title listing for 2010, exclusively using sales from Christian retailers. In this second list, Jesus Calling and Crazy Love took the #1 and #2 spots, suggesting that these titles were more popular among the "active Christian" population, which makes up the majority share of the Christian retail consumer base.
"While 2010 was a rebuilding year for most ECPA publishers, many publishers will close out 2010 with an increase, even though the industry did not have a blockbuster release that captured the attention of the broader audiences as we have seen with other titles in the past," reports Mark Kuyper, CEO. Previously, titles such as The Purpose Driven Life (Rick Warren, Zondervan) as well as The Left Behind Series (Tim LaHaye/Jerry Jenkins, Tyndale House Publishers) found their way to the top of every major bestseller list, helping to increase awareness of the entire Christian content genre.
The "Best of 2010" lists can be viewed at:
Top 50 Multi-channel at http://christianbookexpo.com/bestseller/bestof2010/
Top Authors at http://christianbookexpo.com/bestseller/bestof2010/top-20-authors.php
Top 50 Christian Retail at http://christianbookexpo.com/bestseller/bestof2010/top-50-retail.php
# # #
Many recognizable names and titles adorn the Top 50 list once again for 2010. Such notables fill the top three spots: Gary Chapman's The Five Love Languages (Moody Publishers), The Love Dare by Stephen & Alex Kendrick (B&H Publishing Group) and the 2007 runaway bestseller, The Shack by William Paul Young (Windblown Media).
“The 2010 list represents a very diverse sample of retail activity, including the mass market, which may have favored titles with a tried and true presence in a market place that was possibly not as receptive to new titles, due to the struggling economy" says ECPA’s Information & Education Director Michael Covington.
“The absence of a new release among these top spots is not a concern as the rest of the list is populated by more recent titles such as Jesus Calling (Sarah Young, Thomas Nelson Publishers) and Crazy Love (Francis Chan, David C Cook), both of which seem to be following closely in the footsteps of the top three, as sales data would reveal their rankings outside of Christian retail channel are notable, though not quite as high."
"Christian book buyers are not all the same," says Covington. "While Christian content enjoys very broad distribution today, it's obvious that certain titles sell better through channels that are shopped more heavily by the core Christian book consumer." To demonstrate this, ECPA also produced a Top 50 title listing for 2010, exclusively using sales from Christian retailers. In this second list, Jesus Calling and Crazy Love took the #1 and #2 spots, suggesting that these titles were more popular among the "active Christian" population, which makes up the majority share of the Christian retail consumer base.
"While 2010 was a rebuilding year for most ECPA publishers, many publishers will close out 2010 with an increase, even though the industry did not have a blockbuster release that captured the attention of the broader audiences as we have seen with other titles in the past," reports Mark Kuyper, CEO. Previously, titles such as The Purpose Driven Life (Rick Warren, Zondervan) as well as The Left Behind Series (Tim LaHaye/Jerry Jenkins, Tyndale House Publishers) found their way to the top of every major bestseller list, helping to increase awareness of the entire Christian content genre.
The "Best of 2010" lists can be viewed at:
Top 50 Multi-channel at http://christianbookexpo.com/bestseller/bestof2010/
Top Authors at http://christianbookexpo.com/bestseller/bestof2010/top-20-authors.php
Top 50 Christian Retail at http://christianbookexpo.com/bestseller/bestof2010/top-50-retail.php
# # #
AUTHOR LEISHA KELLY & SON KILLED IN CAR ACCIDENT
Leisha Kelly, 47, was killed in car accident Tuesday night near Fowler, Illinois. Her son, 16-year-old Justice, was also killed in the crash. Kelly, a resident of nearby Clayton, Illinois, was the author of 11 books, among them a best-selling inspirational historical fiction series centered around the Wortham and Hammond families, set in Southern Illinois. Her most recent book, The House on Malcolm Street, was published by Revell in September 2010.
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