NY TIMES BESTSELLERS WEEK OF DECEMBER 17

• TO HEAVEN AND BACK by Mary C. Neal (WaterBrook) is #3 in paperback advice & misc.
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• HEAVEN IS FOR REAL by Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent (Thomas Nelson) is #4 in paperback nonfiction; #18 in combined print & e-Book nonfiction; #18 in combined hardcover & paperback nonfiction; and #21 in e-Book nonfiction.
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• THE FIVE LOVE LANGUAGES by Gary Chapman (Northfield/Moody) is #4 in paperback advice & misc.
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• THE HARBINGER by Jonathan Cahn (FrontLine) is #10 in paperback trade fiction; and #30 in combined hardcover & paperback fiction.
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• CROSS ROADS by Wm. Paul Young (FaithWords) is #12 in hardcover fiction; #15 in combined hardcover & paperback fiction; and #26 in combined print & e-Book fiction.
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• THE LOVE DARE by Stephen and Alex Kendrick with Lawrence Kimbrough (B&H Books) is #13 in paperback advice & misc.
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• KISSES FROM KATIE by Katie Davis with Beth Clark (Howard) is #14 in paperback nonfiction.
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• MULTIPLY by Francis Chan with Mark Beuving (David C. Cook) is #15 in paperback advice & misc.
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• BONHOEFFER by Eric Metaxas (Thomas Nelson) is #26 in paperback nonfiction.
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• THE BRIDGE by Karen Kingsbury (Howard Books) is #33 in hardcover fiction.
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• AN INVISIBLE THREAD by Laura Schroff and Alex Tresniowski (Howard) is #35 in paperback nonfiction.

From ECPA's Rush to Press at ecpanews.org/rush

CT RELEASES IPAD EDITION

CAROL STREAM, Ill., Dec. 10, 2012 /Christian Newswire/ -- This Fall marks a notable step into the digital-first age for Christianity Today magazine. The leading Christian publisher released the iPad edition of Christianity Today, which provides a unique reading experience designed specifically with the tablet reader in mind.

Publisher Terumi Echols says, "We couldn't be happier with the new iPad edition of Christianity Today magazine, and we believe this edition will delight our subscribers as well as invite a new audience to our content." She continued, "This marks the first of many steps for our flagship brand in addressing a new generation of digital natives."

The iPad edition features include:

• Unique design and layout for an exceptional tablet reading experience
• Color-coded menu sections for easy navigation throughout the issue
• Clear arrow markings to help guide readers intuitively through articles
• Easy access to Christianity Today's RSS feed, social share functions, and note-taking

The tablet edition of the magazine is being test-launched on the iPad, but the tablet version will soon be rolled out onto the Android and Google tablets in 2013. Other web developments are also soon to come for the media ministry.

THE WRITER'S EDGE CHANGES OWNERSHIP

The Writer’s Edge, a manuscript evaluation service for the Christian publishing scene, is changing management and ownership as of January 1, 2013. The program, active since 1993, has been a go-to solution for thousands of writers with book proposals they hope editors will at least hear about in an industry increasingly dominated by agents and media celebrities. Writer’s Edge is unique in that the service uses professional editors to carefully screen submitted manuscripts, and only a handful of those submitted actually “make the cut” that are then referred to nearly 75 acquisition editors who work for the full-service traditional Christian publishers in our industry. Over the years several dozen books have been accepted and published by standard royalty- paying publishers using Writer’s Edge book summaries. The new owners, Bill and Nancie Carmichael (the former publishers of Good Family Magazines) plan to keep Writer’s Edge as a separate entity from their other publishing ventures and operate it as it is currently being done, including maintaining the current staff of editors, a web site, and the current mailing address in Wheaton, Illinois. The immediate plans call for a fresh facelift of the website, plus an improved and streamlined system for communicating with acquisition editors. Their long range plans are to enhance Writer’s Edge services by providing more in-depth teaching and learning resources and opportunities for aspiring writers. The goal will be to continue to raise the quality of writing and the quality of manuscripts that are presented to Christian publishers for consideration. “The program has served both frustrated unknown writers and curious editors seeking a fresh voice for their lists,” says Steve Board, who saw the service launched under Harold Shaw Publishers in the early nineties and has managed it ever since. “Bill and Nancie Carmichael are 35 year veterans in publishing and in mentoring new writers. Their innovative variety of writer services fits well with the Writer’s Edge.” Editors typically have little confidence in the “slush pile” of unsolicited manuscripts, much of it not read or only scanned by an entry level editorial employee. The Writer’s Edge seeks to sift these creations and report only the most promising ones to a publisher list that numbers about 75. The writers pay a fee for the evaluation and the publishers receive the reports at no charge. Publishers who now direct unsolicited manuscripts to The Writer’s Edge Service can continue to do so, using the same email and web site link as in the past. “Vast changes are taking place in the publishing world with new challenges, but also new opportunities,” Bill Carmichael said. “Publishing is still a content driven industry. Even though the methodology and delivery systems change and the markets are fluid, readers will continue to resonate with quality content. Writer’s Edge will continue to be dedicated to both aspiring authors who can produce quality content and Christian publishers looking for new voices.” The Carmichaels are the former publishers of Good Family Magazines which published Virtue, a Christian magazine for women, Christian Parenting Today magazine, Parents of Teenagers magazine, and Zoomer for Kids. They currently own Carmichael Publishing along with a division called Deep River Books, as well as an online editorial service called HonestEditing.com. Combined, the Carmichaels have written fifteen books, published by a variety of publishers including Tyndale House, Moody, Thomas Nelson, Howard Books, Crossway, and Harvest House Publishers. Also, Bill has served on the Board of Directors of the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association. To contact the Carmichaels direct, email NewManagement@writersedgeservice.com or write to PO Box 310, Sisters, OR 97730 For further information, see http://www.WritersEdgeService.com, write info@writersedgeservice.com, or PO Box 1266, Wheaton, IL 60187.

CHRISTIANITY TODAY LEADERSHIP

- Christianity Todaymagazine, the most influential publication for Christian thought leaders, has announced a new leadership structure effective December 1, the first significant change in leadership in 12 years.

Mark Galli, previously CT's managing editor and author of Chaos and Grace andGod Wins, is the new editor. Galli says, "I'm looking forward to helping the staff shape and frame content that will address the most pertinent issues for active Christians. And I'm really looking forward to working with Andy Crouch, who will add fresh energy and ideas into the CT mix."

Andy Crouch, author of Culture Making and executive producer of CT's This Is Our City project, is the new executive editor. He says his new responsibilities will include "paying attention to the big picture, and asking big questions about who are we serving, how well are we serving them, and how we earn readers' trust."

Crouch, who has directed several projects at Christianity Today since joining the ministry in 2005, was previously a campus minister at Harvard University and is a sought-after speaker on university campuses and to organizational leaders.

Christianity Today President Harold Smith says, "This progressive 'dyad' of Mark and Andy will not only build upon CT's editorial excellence but will also find new ways of delivering our award-winning content in print and through emerging online and digital formats."

Katelyn Beaty, previously associate editor at CT magazine, will now serve as managing editor of CT, overseeing the print publication from start to finish. The first woman to lead the magazine in this capacity, Beaty is also editorial director ofThis Is Our City and co-founder of Her.meneutics, CT magazine's site for women.

Previous Christianity Today editor David Neff is refocusing his attention at the global media ministry to the March 2013 launch of the first digital edition ofCristianismo Hoy, a new publication that will provide a rallying point for Hispanic evangelicals. Ted Olsen will continue serving as managing editor of news and online journalism.

For more information on these significant changes, read Smith's announcementhere and watch related videos featuring the new staff: 

CHRISTIAN WRITERS TO PUBLISH NEWS & POLITICS

GUEST BLOG: Although there are many places a Christian writer can go for information regarding being published, where does one go for publishing political content? Many views of politicians reflect those of Christianity and what better way to help man and faith connect than to help bring to light those views? Putting your own pen to paper for the spiritualistic progress of faith within the government could benefit many readers. How do you go about becoming a published Christian writer for political content?

 1. Writing Skill - First and foremost you'll need to make sure your writing skills are up to par. Your heart and soul may be in the right place, but if your writing skills are bad you won't be given a second look. Practice your political writing on free websites that allow you to publish your work to be read by others. It is an excellent way to get constructive criticism from your peers and develop better writing skills.

 2. Careers - Nearly every Christian news service has a section for careers. In many cases, you will need to apply for an internship such as with the Christian Science Monitor. An internship is a great way to get your foot in the door and demonstrate how much of an asset you can be to the organization. Having various works published on free websites could help pad your resume when applying for these careers.

 3. Publish Your Own - There are various ways you can have your Christian political views line the bookshelves. By publishing your own work, you can reduce the stress of trying to find someone to do it for you. Websites like Crossbooks.com and Westbowpress.com can help you greatly in getting your work published.

 4. Start With a Blog - The more content you have published under your name, the more seriously others will view your motives. There are many ways you can start a blog to share your political views ranging from buying your own website to writing for others such as SuccessAndFailure.net. The beauty about owning and operating your own blog is that you are not restricted to the content requirements of a boss or supervisor. You can write as much as you want covering any subject you want. Your Christian political views can be brought to light using your own voice on the Internet. Although many may argue that we need to keep church and state separate. The actual meaning of that is to not allow the church to be the controlling power as it was three-hundred years ago. Even kings and queens feared the power the church held and the dark ages were filled with corruption and mass murders because of difference of views. Having faith in God isn't the same as having a government sponsored campaign to burn witches.

Author Bio: Sara Dawkins  is an active nanny as well as an active freelance writer. She is a frequent contributor of http://www.nannypro.com/.

NY TIMES BEST SELLERS WEEK OF 12/2

TO HEAVEN AND BACK by Mary C. Neal (WaterBrook) is #1 in paperback advice & misc.

 THE FIVE LOVE LANGUAGES by Gary Chapman (Northfield/Moody) is #2 in paperback advice & misc.

 HEAVEN IS FOR REAL by Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent (Thomas Nelson) is #4 in paperback nonfiction; #16 in combined print & e-Book nonfiction; #17 in combined hardcover & paperback nonfiction; and #18 in e-Book nonfiction.

 THE HARBINGER by Jonathan Cahn (FrontLine) is #8 in paperback trade fiction; #19 in combined hardcover & paperback fiction; and #33 in combined paperback and e-Book fiction.

 CROSS ROADS by Wm. Paul Young (FaithWords) is #10 in hardcover fiction; and #17 in combined hardcover & paperback fiction.

 CRAZY LOVE by Francis Chan with Danae Yankoski (David C Cook) is #14 in paperback advice & misc. 

UNGLUED by Lysa TerKeurst (Zondervan) is #15 in paperback advice & misc.

 KISSES FROM KATIE by Katie Davis with Beth Clark (Howard) is #18 in paperback nonfiction.

 THE BRIDGE by Karen Kingsbury (Howard Books) is #30 in hardcover fiction.

 AN INVISIBLE THREAD by Laura Schroff and Alex Tresniowski (Howard) is #33 in paperback nonfiction.

From ECPA's Rush to Press at ecpanews.org/rush

NEWS CORP INTERESTED IN SIMON & SCHUSTER

The News Corp. owned Wall Street Journal broke the news this afternoon that News Corp. (the corporate parents of HarperCollins) have pondered buying Simon & Schuster. Check it out: “News Corp, owner of HarperCollins Publishers, has expressed interest to CBS Corp. about acquiring its Simon & Schuster book business, according to people familiar with the talks. The people described the talks as preliminary and cautioned that a deal isn’t imminent.” At the end of October, Pearson-owned newspaper the Financial Times reported that Random House and Penguin were holding similar talks. Three days later, the companies announced a merger.

NY TIMES BESTSELLERS FOR WEEK OF NOVEMBER 25

TO HEAVEN AND BACK by Mary C. Neal (WaterBrook) is #2 in paperback advice & misc.

 HEAVEN IS FOR REAL by Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent (Thomas Nelson) is #3 in paperback nonfiction; #8 in combined print & e-Book nonfiction; #9 in combined hardcover & paperback nonfiction; and #15 in e-Book nonfiction.

 THE FIVE LOVE LANGUAGES by Gary Chapman (Northfield/Moody) is #4 in paperback advice & misc.

 TOTAL MONEY MAKEOVER by Dave Ramsey (Thomas Nelson) is #9 in hardcover business.

 THE HARBINGER by Jonathan Cahn (FrontLine) is #10 in paperback trade fiction; #22 in combined hardcover & paperback fiction; and #35 in combined paperback and e-Book fiction.

 MULTIPLY by Francis Chan with Mark Beuving (David C. Cook) is #12 in paperback advice & misc.

 CRAZY LOVE by Francis Chan with Danae Yankoski (David C Cook) is #13 in paperback advice & misc. 

UNGLUED by Lysa TerKeurst (Zondervan) is #14 in paperback advice & misc.

 KISSES FROM KATIE by Katie Davis with Beth Clark (Howard) is #17 in paperback nonfiction.

 THE BRIDGE by Karen Kingsbury (Howard Books) is #18 in hardcover fiction.

 AN INVISIBLE THREAD by Laura Schroff and Alex Tresniowski (Howard) is #27 in paperback nonfiction.

 FEARLESS by Eric Blehm (WaterBrook)is #29 in hardcover fiction; and #33 in combined hardcover & paperback nonfiction. From ECPA's Rush to Press at ecpanews.org/rush

• TO HEAVEN AND BACK by Mary C. Neal (WaterBrook) is #2 in paperback advice & misc.
• 
  
• HEAVEN IS FOR REAL by Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent (Thomas Nelson) is #3 in paperback nonfiction; #8in combined print & e-Book nonfiction; #9 in combined hardcover & paperback nonfiction; and #15 in e-Book nonfiction.
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• THE FIVE LOVE LANGUAGES by Gary Chapman (Northfield/Moody) is #4 in paperback advice & misc.
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• TOTAL MONEY MAKEOVER by Dave Ramsey (Thomas Nelson) is #9 in hardcover business.
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• THE HARBINGER by Jonathan Cahn (FrontLine) is #10 in paperback trade fiction; #22 in combined hardcover & paperback fiction; and #35 in combined paperback and e-Book fiction.
• 
  
• MULTIPLY by Francis Chan with Mark Beuving (David C. Cook) is #12 in paperback advice & misc.
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• CRAZY LOVE by Francis Chan with Danae Yankoski (David C Cook) is #13 in paperback advice & misc.
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• UNGLUED by Lysa TerKeurst (Zondervan) is #14 in paperback advice & misc.
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• KISSES FROM KATIE by Katie Davis with Beth Clark (Howard) is #17 in paperback nonfiction.
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• THE BRIDGE by Karen Kingsbury (Howard Books) is #18 in hardcover fiction.
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• AN INVISIBLE THREAD by Laura Schroff and Alex Tresniowski (Howard) is #27 in paperback nonfiction.
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• FEARLESS by Eric Blehm (WaterBrook)is #29 in hardcover fiction; and #33 in combined hardcover & paperback nonfiction.

BOOKSTORE SALES FALL IN SEPTEMBER

        Bookstore sales took a tumble in September, falling 8.2%, to $1.39 billion, according to preliminary estimates released Wednesday morning by the U.S. Census Bureau. Last September was the final month of Borders' going-out-of business sales. For the first nine months of 2012, bookstore sales were down 1.6%, to $11.64 billion.

        For the entire retail segment, September sales rose 3% and sales in the nine month period were 5.5% ahead of the same span in 2011.

TAX HELP FOR WRITERS

     As we approach the end of the year, it's a reminder that we need to give some thought to taxes. I'm happy to announce that there is now online help specifically for writers. Gary Hensley, a long-time tax consultant, has a new blog at www.taxsolutionsforwriters.com to offer free tax advice to writers/authors.  There are 29 posts on it so far and he is trying to add something to it each week. You will want to check this out, whether you are new to writing or more experienced and just want to keep up with the latest changes that may affect your tax status.

NY TIMES BEST SELLER LIST FOR NOVEMBER 18

• TO HEAVEN AND BACK by Mary C. Neal (WaterBrook) is #1 in paperback advice & misc.
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• HEAVEN IS FOR REAL by Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent (Thomas Nelson) is #2 in paperback nonfiction; #7 in combined print & e-Book nonfiction; #7 in combined hardcover & paperback nonfiction; and #11 in e-Book nonfiction.
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• THE FIVE LOVE LANGUAGES by Gary Chapman (Northfield/Moody) is #3 in paperback advice & misc.
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• THE HARBINGER by Jonathan Cahn (FrontLine) is #10 in paperback trade fiction.
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• MULTIPLY by Francis Chan with Mark Beuving (David C. Cook) is #11 in paperback advice & misc.
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• CRAZY LOVE by Francis Chan with Danae Yankoski (David C Cook) is #13 in paperback advice & misc.
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• KISSES FROM KATIE by Katie Davis with Beth Clark (Howard) is #13 in paperback nonfiction.
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• UNGLUED by Lysa TerKeurst (Zondervan) is #15 in paperback advice & misc.
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• THE BRIDGE by Karen Kingsbury (Howard Books) is #17 in hardcover fiction; and #35 in combined hardcover & paperback fiction.
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• A YEAR OF BIBLICAL WOMANHOOD by Rachel Held Evans (Thomas Nelson) is #18 in e-Book nonfiction.
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• THE SANCTUARY by Ted Dekker (Center Street) is #24 in hardcover fiction.

From ECPA's Rush to Press at ecpanews.org/rush

RELIGIOUS E-BOOK SALES UP

Religious presses reported a 36.5% increase in faith-based e-books for the year-to-date versus January-July 2011, with sales of nearly $40 million, according to the latest figures available from the Association of American Publishers (AAP).

Overall, religious book sales from publishers for the year-to-date versus the same time frame in 2011 saw almost a 9% drop to more than $324 million.

Religious paperback sales experienced a nearly 29% decrease for the year-to-date versus January-July 2011, with sales of more than $98 million. In the same date range, religious hardcover sales were down .4%, with sales of $158.2 million.

With 1,184 publishers reporting, AAP's Monthly StatShot report included data from Concordia Publishing House, Gospel Light, Moody Publishers, NavPress, Thomas Nelson and Tyndale House Publishers, among others in the Christian market.

NEW MOTTO FOR HARVEST HOUSE

Harvest House Publishers is unveiling a new company motto, Grow True™. This motto change comes shortly after the announcement of a new corporate logo. “Both the new motto and logo underscore Harvest House’s focus on producing resources that encourage spiritual growth rooted in the life-nourishing truths of God’s Word,” states Bob Hawkins, Jr., longtime president of the family-run business.  “Grow True™ conveys a positive message about the unchanging direction of our company and its products. It speaks simply of helping readers grow true into who God created them to be, no matter what their circumstances in life.” Mary Cooper, Executive Vice President of Corporate Development and Services at Harvest House, says, “We have always been committed to clear biblical teaching and helping Christians grow in their faith. We want to help readers on their journey to growing spiritually strong in a way that stays true to God’s Word.” The new motto affirms and builds upon Harvest House’s mission statement, “To glorify God by providing high-quality products that affirm biblical values, help people grow spiritually strong, and proclaim Jesus Christ as the answer to every human need.”

NY TIMES BESTSELLERS WEEK OF NOVEMBER 11

• HEAVEN IS FOR REAL by Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent (Thomas Nelson) is #2 in paperback nonfiction; #9in combined print & e-Book nonfiction; #10 in combined hardcover & paperback nonfiction; and #13 in e-Book nonfiction.
• 
  
• TO HEAVEN AND BACK by Mary C. Neal (WaterBrook) is #2 in paperback advice & misc.
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• THE FIVE LOVE LANGUAGES by Gary Chapman (Northfield/Moody) is #4 in paperback advice & misc.
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• GOD LOVES YOU by David Jeremiah (FaithWords) is #6 in hardcover advice & misc.
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• THE BRIDGE by Karen Kingsbury (Howard Books) is #5 in hardcover fiction; #11 in combined hardcover & paperback fiction; #12 in combined print and e-Book fiction; and #14 in e-Book fiction.
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• THE HARBINGER by Jonathan Cahn (FrontLine) is #10 in paperback trade fiction; and #35 in combined hardcover & paperback fiction.
• 
  
• UNGLUED by Lysa TerKeurst (Zondervan) is #12 in paperback advice & misc.
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• CRAZY LOVE by Francis Chan with Danae Yankoski (David C Cook) is #13 in paperback advice & misc.
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• ONE THOUSAND GIFTS by Ann Voskamp (Zondervan) is #13 in hardcover advice & misc.
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• THE LOVE DARE by Stephen and Alex Kendrick with Lawrence Kimbrough (B&H Books) is #14 in paperback advice & misc.
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• KISSES FROM KATIE by Katie Davis with Beth Clark (Howard) is #19 in paperback nonfiction.
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• AN INVISIBLE THREAD by Laura Schroff and Alex Tresniowski (Howard) is #27 in paperback nonfiction.

From ECPA's Rush to Press at ecpanews.org/rush

NY TIMES BEST SELLER FOR WEEK OF NOVEMBER 4

• HEAVEN IS FOR REAL by Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent (Thomas Nelson) is #3 on the paperback nonfiction list; #8 on the e-Book nonfiction list; #12 on the combined print & e-Book nonfiction list; and #14 on the combined hardcover & paperback nonfiction list.
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• TO HEAVEN AND BACK by Mary C. Neal (WaterBrook) is #3 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
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• THE MEANING OF MARRIAGE by Timothy Keller with Kathy Keller (Penguin Group) is #3 on the e-Book nonfiction list; and #5 on the combined print & e-Book nonfiction list.
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• THE FIVE LOVE LANGUAGES by Gary Chapman (Northfield/Moody) is #6 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
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• GOD LOVES YOU by David Jeremiah. (FaithWords) is #7 on the hardcover advice & misc. list.
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• THE HARBINGER by Jonathan Cahn (FrontLine) is #8 on the paperback trade fiction list; and #34 on the combined hardcover & paperback fiction list.
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• UNGLUED by Lysa TerKeurst (Zondervan) is #11 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
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• HEAVEN CHANGES EVERYTHING by Todd & Sonja Burpo (Thomas Nelson) is #11 on the hardcover advice & misc. list.
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• CRAZY LOVE by Francis Chan with Danae Yankoski (David C Cook) is #12 on paperback advice & misc. list.
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• LOVE DOES by Bob Goff (Thomas Nelson) is #14 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
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• KISSES FROM KATIE by Katie Davis with Beth Clark (Howard) is #15 on the paperback nonfiction list.
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• ONE THOUSAND GIFTS by Ann Voskamp (Zondervan) is #15 on the hardcover advice & misc. list.
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• AN INVISIBLE THREAD by Laura Schroff and Alex Tresniowski (Howard) is #27 on the paperback nonfiction list.

From ECPA's Rush to Press at ecpanews.org/rush

RANDOM HOUSE & PENGUIN MERGE

In a deal that had been months in the making, Pearson and Bertelsmann announced Monday morning that they have signed an agreement to form a joint venture that will combine the businesses of Random House and Penguin. The deal, which is expected to close in the second half of 2013, will make Penguin Group chairman John Makinson chairman of the newly named Penguin Random House company, while Random House chairman and CEO Markus Dohle will be CEO.

Under the terms of the agreement, Bertelsmann will own 53% of the joint venture and Pearson will own 47%. The joint venture will exclude Bertelsmann’s trade publishing business in Germany, and Pearson will retain rights to use the Penguin brand in education markets worldwide. Bertelsmann will nominate five directors to the board of Penguin Random House, and Pearson will nominate four.

ROSE PUBLISHING LAUNCHES ASPIRE PRESS

Best known for their four-color Bible reference products and subject-related pamphlets, Rose Publishing is expanding into Christian living products. "About 18 months ago we realized there were few publishers that had value-priced products for Christian facing personal problems," says Rose publisher Gretchen Goldsmith. "Everyone knows someone who is dealing with problems in life, including anger, abuse, addictions, marriage problems, and needing to forgive." 

Aspire Press will publish a variety of formats ($2.99 booklets to $5.99 mini-books). "The average Christian buyer," says Goldsmith, "has a household income of less than $50,000. They just don't have the disposable income to pay $14.99 for a book."

Aspire Press will create easy-to-understand Christian products that help people grow in their faith by offering solutions to life's problems. People can purchase Aspire Press products on the Rose Publishing website starting December (www.rose-publishing.com). A series of 12 pamphlets by bestselling author Joni Eareckson Tada are already available on such topics as When Is It Right to Die, Suffering, Forgiveness, Prayer, Gratitude, Breaking the Bonds of Fear, and Loneliness.

By February 2013, Aspire will launch six mini-books by Michelle Borquez Thornton, the president of Moms that Matter, and national spokesperson for Beth Moore's Loving Well Television Special. Her topics are part of the Freedom Series and include divorce, abandonment, abortion, abuse, fear, and failure. Aspire will also release the first six of 25 booklets by June Hunt, founder of Hope for the Heart. "What we need is not just revelation," says Hunt, "we need transformation." Her initial booklets will cover topics of codependency, anger, depression, forgiveness, resolving conflict, and emotional abuse.

"We will roll out the changes in the next three month," says Goldsmith. Goldsmith is already encouraged by the results to the first six pamphlets by Joni Eareckson Tada which have sold twice as well the typical Bible reference pamphlet. "Rose has helped Christians understand the Bible" explains Goldsmith. "Now we will help Christians face life problems and overcome difficult circumstances by offering products that are affordable to the average Christian."

SELF-PUBLISHING SEES GROWTH

DO IT YOURSELF: Self-Publishing Sees Triple-Digit Growth Since 2007 (STATS JUST RELEASED, Oct 24, 2012, IN PW)

The number of self-published books produced annually in the U.S. has nearly tripled, growing 287% since 2006, with 235,625 print and e titles released in 2011, according to a new analysis of data from Bowker. The research found that while production increases are occurring in both print and e-book formats, the latter is driving the greatest percentage gains. It also shows that while self-publishing may seem like a cottage industry, it is dominated by large firms that offer publishing services to individual authors.

Bowker’s research into self-publishing was prompted by an earlier study that showed 2011’s 148,424 self-published print books representedabout 43% of that year’s total traditional print output. While print accounts for 63% of self-published books, e-books are gaining fast. E-book production in 2011 was 87,201, up 129% over 2006. Print grew 33% in the same period.

While self-publishing is a DIY undertaking, Bowker’s analysis shows its infrastructure is made up of a handful of large firms. In 2011, CreateSpace dominated the print segment, supporting the creation of 58,412 titles (39% of self-published print books). Smashwords topped the e-book producers with 40,608 titles (nearly 47% of total self-published e-books). The combined divisions of Author Solutions (now part of Penguin Group) produced a total of 47,094 titles and Lulu Enterprises checks in with 38,005 titles. The Bowker analysis shows that beyond these four players, no company has more than 10% of market share.

Small presses, a category that is defined as publishers who have produced 10 or fewer books, accounted for 34,107 self-published titles in 2011 divided between 21,256 print books and 12,851 e-books. [Bowker's "Self-Publishing Report" is available athttp://www.bookconsumer.com/.]

NY TIMES BESTSELLERS FOR WEEK OF OCTOBER 28

• 
  HEAVEN IS FOR REAL by Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent (Thomas Nelson) is #1 on the paperback nonfiction list; #4 on the e-Book nonfiction list; #5 on the combined print & e-Book nonfiction list; and #7 on the combined hardcover & paperback nonfiction list.
• 
  
• TO HEAVEN AND BACK by Mary C. Neal (WaterBrook) is #2 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
• 
  
• GOD LOVES YOU by David Jeremiah. (FaithWords) is #3 on the hardcover advice & misc. list.
• 
  
• THE FIVE LOVE LANGUAGES by Gary Chapman (Northfield/Moody) is #5 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
• 
  
• THE HARBINGER by Jonathan Cahn (FrontLine) is #9 on the paperback trade fiction list; and #30 on the combined hardcover & paperback fiction list.
• 
  
• UNGLUED by Lysa TerKeurst (Zondervan) is #10 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
• 
  
• CHANGE YOUR WORDS, CHANGE YOUR LIFE by Joyce Meyer (FaithWords) is #11 on the hardcover advice & misc. list.
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• CRAZY LOVE by Francis Chan with Danae Yankoski (David C. Cook) is #11 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
• 
  
• HEAVEN CHANGES EVERYTHING by Todd & Sonja Burpo (Thomas Nelson) is #12 on the hardcover advice & misc. list.
• 
  
• KISSES FROM KATIE by Katie Davis with Beth Clark (Howard) is #13 on the paperback nonfiction list.
• 
  
• THE LOVE DARE by Stephen and Alex Kendrick with Lawrence Kimbrough (B&H Books) is #14 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
• 
  
• EVERY DAY A FRIDAY by Joel Osteen (FaithWords) is #15 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
• 
  
• AN INVISIBLE THREAD by Laura Schroff and Alex Tresniowski (Howard) is #32 on the paperback nonfiction list.

From ECPA's Rush to Press at ecpanews.org/rush

L MAGAZINE NEEDS ARTICLES

L Magazine is a bimonthly with 32-pages per issue printed by Logos Productions, Inver Grove Heights, MN, and mailed free to 16,000 ELCA (Lutheran) congregations. It is supported by advertising. Writers need to be Christian, but not Lutheran.

As you will see in the online version (http://www.lmagazine.net/?page_id=19), the magazine features creative artwork in lush colors.

As you will also discover, its basic format is a lead article (1500 words), two articles generally related to or contrasting with the lead.

Each issue also has some departments, such as humor, worship, church in context, arts, and resources (which has an editor).

The Jan.-Feb. 2013 issue focuses on Walter Bruggemann's THE PRACTICE OF PROPHETIC IMAGINATION. The original prophets offered a covental alternative to the royal consciousness of the Jerusalem establishment. Such preaching today contrasts God's alternative community against the exploitative freewheeling or regulated (God's community is neither Republican nor Democrat) communities.

Other articles (also 750-words; what we have called "departments") focus on the church year seasons and cultural calendar. Humor, for example, is a good story well-told that brings a smile. For the Jan.-Feb. 2013 issue, this story might be on Valentine's Day, whereas the day is not celebrated in Protestant churches.

The March-April 2013 issue has as its lead article Jurgen Moltmann's THE ETHICS OF HOPE, excerpting a passage on "The Resurrection of Life." This relates to the Lent, Holy Week, and Easter themes in those two months.

All pieces address Christian ministry, both ordained and lay, and have an immediate usage. Humor could be used at the start of a Bible study or in a sermon.

The Jan.-Feb. 2013 issue needs manuscripts due around Nov. 15, 2012, and then every two months afterward (Jan. 15, 2013; March 13, 2013; etc.).

I hope that you have something nearly ready to go that could be used now or in the near future.

Tim

=================================

Timothy Staveteig

tstaveteig@myliterarycoach.com

www.myliterarycoach.com

9764 Gates Avenue

Cleveland, Ohio 44105

1-888-317-7270

WRITING CLASSES - GUEST BLOG

Writing Classes Can Transform Your Craft

I'm always shocked whenever I come across fellow writers and authors who don't take writing classes. Why? Well, enrolling in writing classes is one of the best ways writers of all ages and experience levels can improve their skills. And you don't have to be a student at a university or college in order to sign up for writing classes. Whether you know it or not, there are writing classes all around you; you just need to know where to find them. If you have the time, taking a writing class can be extremely beneficial. Should you be interested in improving your writing, here are three different "classes" you should definitely enroll in.

Meetups

Have you ever visited Meetup.com? If you're a professional writer, you definitely should! Every day, thousands of freelance writers and published authors log on to this popular website to seek out different writing groups and clubs they can join. Many of these writing Meetup groups also feature interesting, helpful classes that members are encouraged to take advantage of. Although no writing Meetup group is the same, many of the groups feature writing exercises, editing sessions, revising practices, one-on-one feedback meetings, and brainstorming sessions. Sure, meeting with a group of individuals you've never met before may feel strange at first, but over time you'll realize you're a part of a fellowship of writers that can assist you in creating amazing work!

Mentor sessions

If meeting with a large group of people doesn't suit you, then maybe you should try meeting one-on-one with a few mentors. In the early years of my career, I meet publishers, editors, authors, illustrators, poets, and freelance writers that I deeply respected. Over time, I recruited many of them to be my writing mentors, and through the years they've been an absolute blessing to me. Whenever I'd start a new book or short story, I'd ask them to share their honest feedback with me regarding my early rough drafts. Most all of them gave me useful, articulate advice that helped me hone and develop my writing skills. Do yourself a favor and find 2-5 different mentors you can turn to whenever you start a new writing project. They'll probably be extremely flattered and more than willing to help you if you ask them nicely.

Writing classes online

I used to be pretty hesitant about taking writing classes online, but once I enrolled in an online fiction-writing class two years ago, I was blown away by how thorough and helpful it turned out to be. Online classes aren't only featured at online colleges and universities; in fact, you can take online writing classes from a number of respectable educational websites. The best news of all is that many of these online writing classes are free of charge, so you won't have to worry about going broke while taking them. Lastly, online writing classes adhere to all lifestyles, schedules, and ages, so no matter where you are in your life, online writing classes will definitely work for you.

If you plan on becoming the best writer you can be, you should focus on pushing yourself forward. Seize these three class options and you'll see your writing improve in strides.

Patricia Garza is an education blogger and freelance writer for oedb.org. She is passionate about all things education related and regularly writes about regionally accredited online schools. Patricia uses her knowledge of the online education world to help students and graduates make the most of their degree experience. You can reach her in the comments below. http://oedb.org/library/choosing-a-school/online-college-accreditation

CHRISTIANITY TODAY HONORED

CAROL STREAM, Ill., Oct. 19, 2012 /Christian Newswire/ -- The Religion Newswriters Association (RNA) presented its 2012 awards at its annual conference that honors the year's best in religion reporting, design, and commentary. The global media ministry of Christianity Today received 5 awards, including second place in the Magazine of the Year category for Christianity Todaymagazine.

David Neff, Christianity Today editor in chief and vice president says, "These awards come from the top professional organization for religion journalists, both secular and religious. We're very proud of this year's honor."

Below is the full listing of Christianity Today's 2012 RNA awards:

Magazine of the Year: Overall Excellence in Religion Coverage
Second Place: Christianity Today 
Magazine Religion Story Layout and Design of the Year
First Place: Christianity Today for "Portland's Quiet Abolitionists" This Is Our City package (November 2011):

Magazine Religion Graphic or Illustration of the Year
Second Place: Christianity Today for "Muslims and the Son of God" cover (February 2011)

Magazine Religion News Report of the Year 
First Place: Ruth Moon of Christianity Today for three stories:

• "Pushing Back the Desert: Niger's Christians Get Creative for Daily Bread" (April 2011)

• "Aid on the Edges" (Oct 2011)

• "Exit Visa: Iraqi Christians Look for Safe Haven" (April 2011):

Chandler Award for Student Religion Reporter of the Year 
First Place: Catherine Newhouse of the University of Missouri for her Christianity Today article "Pentecostal Renewal Transforms Rwanda after Genocide"(December 2011)

A full list of 2012 RNA awards can be found at the association's website.

Christianity Today is a nonprofit, global media ministry that serves the church through digital and print publications, as well as practical and accessible web resources that together reach more than 2.5 million people every month.

Christian Newswire

10 BEST SITES FOR CHRISTIAN WRITERS

It can be difficult, as a Christian, to find a great site to write for that an offer support of your beliefs and praises your faith. However, there are many to choose from, if you know where to look and depending on what kind of Christian writing you want to do. 

1 WiseBread.com – This community of writers focuses on living frugally. If you are living on a tight budget and want to help support others trying to live better on less, consider joining the team of bloggers making a difference.

2 FaithWriters.com – This site is a faith strengthening place for Christian writers. Their tagline states that they are a safe and nurturing place for people of faith. Here you can apply to join the team or find a Christian writer for your project.

3 ChristianWriters.com – This is more of a forum and blogging site to encourage other writers of faith and provide a safe place to share encouragement and ideas among Christian writers.

4 ChristianStoryTeller.com – This site is designed for Christian book writers. While they do have strict guidelines for applicants and members alike, they promise to be s support network for emerging and veteran authors of Christian stories.

5 UtmostChristianWriters.com – Is a non-profit organization with the purpose of assisting Christian writers to reach their dreams and aspirations. It is founded on and supported by those who are reaching their dreams in Christian writing from poetry and short stories to book writing and more.

6 ChristianWriters.org.uk – Here you can find inspiration, stories, words of encouragement and more. If you are a Christian writer looking for professional advice, resources, and events, this is the place to go. Beginners and published authors are welcome and will find fellowship, support, and other useful advice tools, networking, opportunities, and more. The site is open to pre-authors, authors, and publishers of the Christian sort.

7 ChristianManuscriptSubmissions.com – This service is created by the top Christian writers and publishers who are looking for a traditional royalty based relationship. Writers can submit their manuscripts and proposals in a secure manner for review by the top editors from Christian publishing houses and members of the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association.

8 XulonPress.com – With over 10,000 published Christian authors since 2001, they may be the largest Christian Self-Publishing company. Xulon is owned and operated by Salem Communications. If you are in search of one of the top Christian Based publishers, this could be the answer to your prayers.

9 NWChristianWriters.org – Founded in April of 1990, this non-for-profit is a board-governed support organization for Christian writers. Their membership includes authors and new writers and promises encouragement for those who are emerging for the first time. Their collective base includes homemakers, full-time writers, moonlighters, retirees, and other men and women of faith from all walks of life and career.

10 CWAHM.com – Owned by Jill Hart, this site lists daily job opportunities for homemakers of faith looking to supplement their family’s income with writing income. Jill posts opportunities and their details on her site everyday along with words of encouragement.

With a little finger grease at your keyboard, you can find many more listings for Christian men and women to gain support of their writing and faith. Strengthen your life, ministry, and faith by joining like-minded individuals and offering your words of encouragement and wisdom to their communities of faithful people. 

Author Bio

Nancy Parker was a professional nanny and she loves to write about wide range of subjects like health, Parenting, Child Care, Babysitting, nanny, www.enannysource.com/ etc. You can reach her @ nancy.parker015 @ gmail.com

RISKEY NAMED CBA PRESIDENT

CBA, the association for Christian retail, promoted Curtis Riskey from executive director to president during a recent board meeting.

“The appointment is an affirmation by the board of Riskey’s leadership, role in the industry and job performance in running the association these past three years,” said CBA Board Chairman George Thomsen. Thomsen, director of the Harvest Bookstore and Café (Riverside, CA), has led the board during a dramatic association turnaround the past three years, which has seen innovative changes in internal operations and the International Christian Retail Show, CBA’s annual trade show.

Riskey said he is humbled and honored by the support of the board, and credited a team effort by the board and staff to shift CBA’s direction.

He said CBA will be focusing on strategic direction and growth in coming years not only for the association but especially for the industry of Christian stores and their trading partners who create Christian resources and materials.

NY TIMES BESTSELLERS LIST - OCTOBER 21

• 
  THE FIVE LOVE LANGUAGES by Gary Chapman (Northfield/Moody) is #3 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
• 
  
• HEAVEN IS FOR REAL by Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent (Thomas Nelson) is #4 on the paperback nonfiction list; #14 on the e-Book nonfiction list; #20 on the combined print & e-Book nonfiction list; and #25 on the combined hardcover & paperback nonfiction list.
• 
  
• CHANGE YOUR WORDS, CHANGE YOUR LIFE by Joyce Meyer (FaithWords) is #4 on the hardcover advice & misc. list.
• 
  
• GOD LOVES YOU by David Jeremiah. (FaithWords) is #5 on the hardcover advice & misc. list.
• 
  
• THE HARBINGER by Jonathan Cahn (FrontLine) is #6 on the paperback trade fiction list; and #22 on the combined hardcover & paperback fiction list.
• 
  
• UNGLUED by Lysa TerKeurst (Zondervan) is #6 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
• 
  
• TO HEAVEN AND BACK by Mary C. Neal (WaterBrook) is #8 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
• 
  
• CRAZY LOVE by Francis Chan with Danae Yankoski (David C. Cook) is #9 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
• 
  
• FULL DISCLOSURE by Dee Henderson (Bethany House Publishers) is #11 on the paperback trade fiction list;#35 on the combined pring & e-Book fiction list.
• 
  
• THE LOVE DARE by Stephen and Alex Kendrick with Lawrence Kimbrough (B&H Books) is #11 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
• 
  
• EVERY DAY A FRIDAY by Joel Osteen (FaithWords) is #12 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
• 
  
• RADICAL by David Platt (Multnomah) is #13 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
• 
  
• ONE THOUSAND GIFTS by Ann Voskamp (Zondervan) is #13 on the hardcover advice & misc. list.
• 
  
• LOVE DOES by Bob Goff (Thomas Nelson) is #14 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
• 
  
• KISSES FROM KATIE by Katie Davis with Beth Clark (Howard) is #16 on the paperback nonfiction list.
• 
  
• THE BRIDESMAID by Beverly Lewis (Bethany House Publishers) is #31 on the paperback trade fiction list.

From ECPA's Rush to Press at ecpanews.org/rush

HARPERCOLLINS CREATES ONE FICTION TEAM

HarperCollins Christian Publishing announced last week the division will operate with one Fiction team, responsible for both the Thomas Nelson and Zondervan brands, headed by VP and Publisher Daisy Hutton. “This is an era of unprecedented challenge and opportunity for Fiction publishing.  The Thomas Nelson and Zondervan brands each have a rich heritage. We intend to build on that heritage by developing more distinctive, stronger identities for each brand. We will use the assets that both Thomas Nelson and Zondervan bring to the division to create a dynamic, scaled publishing program where authors will be both energized and nurtured,” said Hutton. More

WD CONTEST DEADLINE EXTENDED

If you missed the entry deadline for Writer's Digest's Popular Fiction Awards and you have a story you'd like to submit, you're in luck! The extended entry deadline is October 31, 2012! That gives you a few more weeks to polish your best work for the chance to win in all six categories-and to be featured in Writer's Digest magazine!. There's sure to be a category that's perfect for you:Romance, Thriller, Crime, Horror, Science-Fiction, or Young Adult .   One Grand Prize winner will receive $2,500 and a trip to the 2013 Writer's Digest Conference in New York City, while six Category First Prize winners will receive $500 each. Don't wait-this deadline won't be extended again. Enter Now! Upcoming Competitions: Popular Fiction Competition Deadline: Oct. 31, 2012 Learn More! Short Short Story Competition Deadline: Nov. 15, 2012 Learn More!

SANTA BARBARA WRITERS CONFERENCE

It's October, the leaves are turning color and swirling around at the least hint of wind. This makes me think of fall and our special event at this time of year: the Santa Barbara Christian Writers Conference at Westmont College. This year's event will be held on October 20, 2012. Please visit our new website for all of the details and the registration form. www.CWGSB.com

This is the best time in history to write that story or share your special knowledge. There has never been a time more needful for the Good News of Jesus is Lord to be broadcast throughout the world. Maybe yours is a fiction book with the gospel tucked in between the lines, or an adventure tale of your exciting life with Christ. With all the wonderful technology we have at our disposal, this is also the easiest time to publish your work.

Writing, publishing, marketing, we cover it all at the 15th annual Christian Writers Conference.

Make your reservation today. You will be so happy you did!

NY TIMES CHRISTIAN BESTSELLERS WEEK OF 0CTOBER 14

• HEAVEN IS FOR REAL by Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent (Thomas Nelson) is #2 on the paperback nonfiction list; #19 on the combined print & e-Book nonfiction list; #20 on the e-Book nonfiction list; and #22 on the combined hardcover & paperback nonfiction list.
• 
  
• THE FIVE LOVE LANGUAGES by Gary Chapman (Northfield/Moody) is #4 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
• 
  
• CHANGE YOUR WORDS, CHANGE YOUR LIFE by Joyce Meyer (FaithWords) is #5 on the hardcover advice & misc. list.
• 
  
• THE HARBINGER by Jonathan Cahn (FrontLine) is #6 on the paperback trade fiction list; and #17 on the combined hardcover & paperback fiction list.
• 
  
• UNGLUED by Lysa TerKeurst (Zondervan) is #7 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
• 
  
• TO HEAVEN AND BACK by Mary C. Neal (WaterBrook) is #10 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
• 
  
• ONE THOUSAND GIFTS by Ann Voskamp (Zondervan) is #13 on the hardcover advice & misc. list.
• 
  
• CRAZY LOVE by Francis Chan with Danae Yankoski (David C. Cook) is #13 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
• 
  
• THE LOVE DARE by Stephen and Alex Kendrick with Lawrence Kimbrough (B&H Books) is #14 on the paperback advice & misc. list.
• 
  
• KISSES FROM KATIE by Katie Davis with Beth Clark (Howard) is #14 on the paperback nonfiction list.
• 
  
• THE BRIDESMAID by Beverly Lewis (Bethany House Publishers) is #23 on the paperback trade fiction list.
• 
  
• THE BEGINNING by Karen Kingsbury (Howard) was #22 on the e-Book fiction list for Oct 7 but not included in the recap last week.
• 
  
• AN INVISIBLE THREAD by Laura Schroff and Alex Tresniowski (Howard) is #29 on the paperback nonfiction list.

From ECPA's Rush to Press at ecpanews.org/rush