Christian publishing expands its scope

Today's Christian publishing industry extends far beyond the Bibles and serious theological books that once dominated the market. This multi-billion dollar business now produces such varied titles as business books, diet books, relationship advice and even romance novels aimed at Christian readers. BookPage sampled some of the best new releases in these popular areas of Christian publishing.

Focus on fiction

Christian fiction is growing by leaps and bounds, spurred in part by the success of the Left Behind series by Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins. Now on its 11th title (Armageddon), this apocalyptic series has reached the top of the bestseller lists and spurred many Christian publishers to put a new emphasis on fiction, launching new series and grooming upcoming authors. This spring's fiction includes entries from new and established writers:

Welcome to Fred is first-time novelist Brad Whittington's appealing story of a preacher's kid (PK) growing up in a tiny, isolated East Texas town. Whittington's publisher compares his style to that of Jan Karon and Phillip Gulley, but his writing is a bit edgier and more contemporary. A funny and honest account of the pains of adolescence and the search for faith, Welcome to Fred should win fans for this new author.


Gilbert Morris, known as "The Father of Christian fiction," has teamed with his daughter, Lynn, to write The Exiles, the first book in a new series set in 19th-century New Orleans. The Exiles follows the life of Chantel Fontaine, who leaves Cuba with her husband in search of a new life and becomes part of the Creole culture of New Orleans. The writers have a knack for drawing readers into their fast-paced storyline, blending Christian themes into the plot as Chantel faces trials that test her faith.


Inspirational fiction writer Dee Henderson delivers the sixth title in her popular O'Malley series in The Rescuer. This winning blend of romance and suspense portrays the challenges facing the O'Malleys, seven young people who met in an orphanage and formed their own family bonds. The Rescuer focuses on Stephen O'Malley, a paramedic who has been rescuing people all his life—and now finds that he's the one who needs help.


Faith-based advice

A slew of authors is turning out self-help and advice books tailored specifically for the Christian market. Some use an overtly religious approach—citing Bible verses, for example—while others incorporate the Christian message more subtly.

If the pounds haven't melted away despite your New Year's resolution, you can find help in Scale Down by Danna Demetre. A registered nurse who overcame her own struggle with eating disorders, Demetre offers a biblically based approach that includes changing the way you think about body image and weight loss. She also includes plenty of practical advice on burning fat.


Writer Angela Thomas was a wallflower. Not ugly, just plain. She had a knack for blending into a crowd without even trying, but her heart was still beating with the question, "Do you think I'm beautiful?" Thomas believes it's a question every woman asks, and one that deserves an answer. In her book, Do You Think I'm Beautiful?, she explores this soul-stirring question. While the title touches on the sensitive subject of body image, Thomas presses deeper into the issues of self-acceptance and self-esteem. She believes that only God can answer the question, and it's precisely what He longs to do.


For those facing the zany challenges of raising boys, two new parenting titles will come in handy: Mom's Everything Book for Sons by Becky Freeman and Dad's Everything Book for Sons by John Trent, Ph.D. and Greg Johnson. The mom's book includes fun ideas on what to talk about, creative ways to bond, how to have Bible studies and suggestions for serving others together. The dad's book offers advice on raising secure sons, developing communication skills and addressing topics such as body changes, girls and sex.


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