Authors Team Up to Donate $500,000 Worth of Books

Books that integrate real faith with real life Box 487, Markham ON L3P 3R1 PH: 905-471-1447 Fax: 905-471-6912 Email: thats-life at rogers.com www.thatslifecommunications.com Authors Team Up to Donate $500,000 Worth of Books 30,000 copies of book will be given to women TORONTO—30 Canadian authors, from six provinces, have joined together with publisher That’s Life! Communications to produce a groundbreaking anthology that will be presented to women across Canada this year as part of FaithLife Financial’s Girls Night Out events. Hot Apple Cider: Words to Stir the Heart and Warm the Soul is a 296page collection of personal experience articles, short stories and poems. While there are similarities to the popular Chicken Soup for the Soul series, Hot Apple Cider has its own unique character and content, with a variety of stories from the lighthearted and humorous to those dealing with serious real-life issues such as the death of a child or spouse, cancer, infertility, loneliness and family conflicts. All of the authors included in this book are professional members of The Word Guild, an association of more than 325 Canadians who write from a Christian faith perspective. The authors represent more than 20 Christian denominations. In an unusual publishing arrangement, the authors will receive royalties from the publisher, That’s Life! Communications, for copies of the book sold through normal retail channels in both Canada and the United States; but the authors donated the money required to print an additional 30,000 copies of the book. The 30,000 books—whose retail value is worth $500,000—are being contributed at no charge to World Vision, a Christian relief, development and advocacy organization. World Vision will then present Hot Apple Cider as a gift to the women who will attend the 80 FaithLife Financial’s Girls Night Out events hosted in communities across Canada. Girls Night Out, which is managed under the planning and guidance of World Vision and its partners, offers women an enjoyable evening of music and inspirational speakers. During the evening, the needs of millions of children affected by the HIV and AIDS pandemic are also presented. “We are honored to begin partnering with The Word Guild,” said Eric Spath, Manager of Artist Associates, Speakers and Events for World Vision Canada, “and we’re thrilled to give every woman attending the Girls Night Out events such a beautiful and powerful book.” Hot Apple Cider was edited by award-wining author N. J. Lindquist and journalist/editor Wendy Elaine Nelles. “We’d been thinking about producing an anthology for some time,” Lindquist said. “As far as we know, this is the first compilation that highlights Canadian authors who write from a Christian worldview. We’re excited that Hot Apple Cider has the potential to create a whole new level of interest in the work of the authors included in it, and in work by other Canadian writers.” “Readers are telling us that the stories in Hot Apple Cider capture their attention and resonate with them, because they’re about us and our neighbours,” Nelles said. “They can identify with the writers because they’re like people they know, and the book reflects our culture, values and experiences.” “Creating a meaningful, high-quality book while at the same time helping World Vision made this a perfect project,” added Lindquist, who has sponsored a number of children through World Vision over a 30-year period. The book is being launched formally on June 11th at the Canadian Christian Writing Awards. Retail copies will be available through normal channels in the U.S.A. and Canada. -30- Books that integrate real faith with real life Box 487, Markham ON L3P 3R1 PH: 905-471-1447 Fax: 905-471-6912 Email: thats-life at rogers.com www.thatslifecommunications.com More Information About Hot Apple Cider While 30,000 copies of this book will be given to women at FaithLife Financial’s Girls Night Out events, people of both genders and all ages will enjoy and benefit from reading it. The stories, articles and poems in this book come from the hearts of both women and men who are real people wrestling with real life. • A middle-aged woman wakes up to discover her husband lying comatose beside her in the Australian outback. • A young doctor questions God’s will after losing his devout grandmother to breast cancer. • A lonely waitress stuck in a small town wonders how God could possibly use her. • A missionary in Africa, dedicated to serving God, has a horrific car accident that leaves him brain-damaged. • A shy twelve-year-old girl struggles with the idea that God wants her to write a letter to the editor of the local newspaper telling people God loves them. In every instance, these ordinary people discovered that God was waiting to dry their tears and help them see His plan for their lives, where good eventually emerged from the hurt and confusion. Learn about a poor farmer’s daughter who—against all odds—graduates as a doctor, goes to India, and helps thousands of impoverished villagers to gain better lives and better health. Discover what ensues after a young mother is forced to stay behind in Nepal as her newborn baby is rushed to the U.S for emergency surgery; when a single woman experiences nervousness, disappointment—then elation—on yet another failed blind date; as a father worries that he will make the same parenting mistakes his father made. Although all write from a Christian worldview, there is a huge variation in experience and outlook. Some are blossoming new writers discovering their passion, while others are mature writers who have polished their craft for many years. Some write sweet, encouraging words; others pen tart, challenging words. A few are well known; some haven't been discovered yet. But they all have the scars to prove they’ve experienced some of life's hard issues and grinding problems. They've been knocked to the ground by stormy winds… and learned that only experiences like these can create the character, insights and deepening of faith that produce rich, tangy writing. The words in this book stir the heart and warm the soul by being natural, authentic, honest, thought-provoking, affirming. Hot Apple Cider was edited by N. J. Lindquist and Wendy Elaine Nelles. The foreword was written by Janette Oke. Contributors include Carolyn Arends, Brian Austin, Paul Beckingham, Paul Boge, Mark Buchanan, Brad Burke, Donna Carter, Keith Clemons, Angelina Fast-Vlaar, Donna Dawson, Grace Fox, Jean Chamberlain Froese, Thom Froese, Harold Fuller, Sheila Wray Gregoire, Bonnie Grove, Deborah Gyapong, Jane Harris-Zsovan, David Kitz, Marcia Lee Laycock, Keturah Leonforde, N. J. Lindquist, Dorene Meyer, Denyse O'Leary, Don Ranney, Diane Roblin Lee, Eleanor Shepherd, Ray Wiseman, Carmen Wittmeier, Eric E. Wright, and Ron Wyse. For further information about: • The book Hot Apple Cider and its contributing authors, see www.hotapplecider.ca • The Word Guild, see www.thewordguild.com • World Vision Canada, see www.worldvision.ca • Girls Night Out, see www.gnolive.ca • FaithLife Financial, see www.faithlifefinancial.ca • The publisher, see www.thatslifecommunications.com Books that integrate real faith with real life Box 487, Markham ON L3P 3R1 PH: 905-471-1447 Fax: 905-471-6912 Email: thats-life at rogers.com www.thatslifecommunications.com Endorsements for Hot Apple Cider “Inventive and filled with grace, Hot Apple Cider is just what its name implies: an open door, a warm invitation, a friend when needed and least expected, a gentle calling toward a generous life. From the shores of Australia and a woman’s grief, to Romania and a choice we all must make, to the town of Stuckville anywhere in the world and a dozen other settings, in prose and poetry and non-fiction, these stories remind us that God draws us together and speaks to us uniquely and in community. If you’re looking for inspiration, something to breathe in for reassurance that you’re not alone, something to remind you to hear God’s voice in acts of compassion, spend an afternoon with Hot Apple Cider. It could just change your life.” —Jane Kirkpatrick, award-winning author of All Together in One Place “Imagine a group of Canadians circled around a campfire. They have two things in common: They’re serious Christians and committed writers. ‘Let me tell you my conversion story,’ calls out Deborah Gyapong. Keith Clemons reads a short story and Brian Austin recites an original poem. Grace Fox shares a devotional piece. As the fire crackles and they sip their cider, all 30 speak from their hearts. That’s the concept of Hot Apple Cider—and it’s a good one.” —Cecil Murphey, author and co-author of more than 100 books, including Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story and the New York Times bestseller 90 Minutes in Heaven “One story inspired me to read the next. I kept dipping my cup into the barrel until I finished it, my thirst quenched and my faith reinvigorated.” —john Arthur martinez, Universal/AGR TV Recording Artist “In the midst of our often-chilling nightly newscasts, the book Hot Apple Cider offers a tempting and ‘toasty’ reprieve. Filled with stories that will melt your heart, you’ll want to keep it as handy as your favourite throw. This book is a wonderful way to feature the rich giftings of some of Canada’s most talented writers. Let us encourage you to wrap your hands around this cup of creativity and drink in the warming words of these fine authors, many of whom we have been privileged to have as guests on our TV program. Go ahead... pour a cup!” —Ron and Ann Mainse, hosts of 100 Huntley Street television program “In Hot Apple Cider, N. J. Lindquist and Wendy Elaine Nelles have assembled a vibrant compilation showcasing a diversity of styles and subjects. But what makes this such an appealing collection is the unique harmony of voices who are joined together by their individual—yet interconnected— journeys of faith. It’s perfect reading for those days when we all are struggling with something.” —Ben Heppner, internationally acclaimed dramatic tenor, opera star and Grammy Award-winning recording artist; Officer of the Order of Canada and recipient of seven honorary doctorate degrees “Turning the pages of this collection, I have enjoyed reading pages from the lives of many other Canadian story-tellers—old friends, and many new writers. I found here stories that made me smile; stories that raised important questions, especially about the nature of prayer; and stories that challenged and sobered me. God is not explained or defended in these stories—but the experienced presence of ‘Someone with us’ is the common ground from which they spring. This is a book to sample, to savour and to share.” —Maxine Hancock, PhD, author and speaker; Professor of Interdisciplinary Studies & Spiritual Theology, Regent College “Much in the tradition of Chicken Soup for the Soul, these delightful readings are like a cozy cup of hot Books that integrate real faith with real life Box 487, Markham ON L3P 3R1 PH: 905-471-1447 Fax: 905-471-6912 Email: thats-life at rogers.com www.thatslifecommunications.com cider. Settle in for a moment of warmth and reflection. You will find Hot Apple Cider to be exactly what it promises. Enjoy!” —Brian C. Stiller, President, Tyndale University College & Seminary “One always appreciates a positive and encouraging word. Hot Apple Cider not only provides this, but does so in the format of real people sharing real experiences. I personally find that very helpful.” —Thomas S. Caldwell, Founder and Chairman of Caldwell Financial Ltd., known as one of the world’s foremost investors in securities exchanges around the world; Member of the Order of Canada “These are heart-warming accounts of everyday lives infiltrated by an anytime God. For the reader, these stories bring home the mysterious—yet practical—relationship available with One who is always close at hand. We are artfully reminded that hardship dispels the illusion of independence from God, and how He never fails to sustain us amidst suffering.” —Sally Start, National Director, Alpha Ministries Canada “Every person has a story and I have learned so much from listening over the years. I now take more personal time to read, reflect and meditate. Hot Apple Cider is perfect for those quiet moments to slow down, to gain insight and to be refreshed. I often found myself smiling!” —Paul Henderson, Director, LeaderImpact group; former NHL and Team Canada hockey player “Thoroughly enjoyable! Hot Apple Cider is a literary banquet table enticing the reader to explore, taste and ponder a diverse sampling of passions, experiences, intriguing personalities and life lessons. The compelling flavour is Canadian—a unique blend of personal history, culture and faith values. May this be the first of many compilations celebrating Canadian Christian writers.” —Margaret Gibb, President, Women Alive “Whether you sip Hot Apple Cider slowly, one story at a time, or drink deeply and read it all in one sitting, these stories of fun, faith and fellowship by gifted Canadian writers will warm your heart.” —Dave Toycen, President and CEO, World Vision Canada “Hot Apple Cider is a fantastic read. Thirty Canadian authors fill the pages of this book with their unique insights and experiences. Although each author’s contribution is different and distinct—reflecting our diverse nation—the book flows from one story into the next. All the writers share a bountiful supply of rich testimonies of a loving God's faithfulness and sufficiency. I’m thrilled that, finally, we all can be blessed by an anthology that depicts the voices of Canadians!” —Johanne Robertson, Publisher, Maranatha News “Hot Apple Cider is a wonderful collection of stories of divine appointments, the awesomeness of God, and comfort in times of grief. Throughout my reading of these captivating short stories, I was compelled to reflect on my own life, my experiences, and my relationships with God, my family and others. This is an amazing book of encouragement. I loved it!” —Marlene O'Neill, multi-award-winning Christian vocalist Books that integrate real faith with real life Box 487, Markham ON L3P 3R1 PH: 905-471-1447 Fax: 905-471-6912 Email: thats-life at rogers.com www.thatslifecommunications.com The Editors of Hot Apple Cider N. J. Lindquist is the author of two adult mysteries, five novels with teenage boys as the point-of-view characters, three discipleship manuals for teens, and a Christmas play. A writing teacher and motivational speaker, her mandate is to encourage people to become all that God created them to be. N. J. has won numerous awards for her writing. The mother of four adult sons, she lives in Markham, Ontario. N. J. will be signing at the New Release Party at ICRS in Orlando in July. www.njlindquist.com Wendy Elaine Nelles is an award-winning journalist, writer, editor and speaker with wide-ranging experience in the corporate, not-for-profit and publishing sectors. Her news articles, features and profiles have appeared on the front pages of Canadian Christian publications. She holds an MA in Communications with high honour from Wheaton College, Illinois. www.wendynelles.com Together, N. J. and Wendy have impacted many of Canada’s writers and editors who are Christian, through co-founding The Word Guild in 2002 and directing many writing awards programs and writers’ conferences. Both were honoured nationally in 2006 with Leading Women Awards for distinctive achievement in Communications and Media. Their primary focus—for both The Word Guild and Hot Apple Cider—is to encourage a sense of community as exemplified in the New Testament, while fostering excellence in the art, craft, business and ministry of writing. www.thewordguild.com Books that integrate real faith with real life Box 487, Markham ON L3P 3R1 PH: 905-471-1447 Fax: 905-471-6912 Email: thats-life at rogers.com www.thatslifecommunications.com Talking Points about Hot Apple Cider: • • • • • The first book of its kind that showcases the work of Canadian writers who are Christian 30,000 books—retail value of $500,000—contributed at no charge to World Vision Authors personally donated the money to produce the gift books No government subsidies involved Win/win situation: the book helps World Vision in its quest to support children affected by the HIV/AIDS pandemic in Africa; women who attend FaithLife Financial’s Girls Night Out events at churches across Canada receive a valuable and inspirational gift; and Canadian Christian authors gain exposure to potential readers and book buyers Additional books being sold to the public in the United States and Canada through normal retail channels, for which the authors will be paid royalties 13 strong endorsements from Christian leaders representing various walks of life, plus from two very successful authors Foreword by bestselling author Janette Oke (more than 28 million copies of her books have been sold) In the style of popular Chicken Soup for the Soul books but not a copy; unique premise and Canadian flavour; inspirational stories that integrate real faith with real life; short chapters make it ideal for recreational reading 30 authors represent more than 20 Christian denominations • • • • • Books that integrate real faith with real life Box 487, Markham ON L3P 3R1 PH: 905-471-1447 Fax: 905-471-6912 Email: thats-life at rogers.com www.thatslifecommunications.com Questions for editors N. J. Lindquist and/or Wendy Elaine Nelles: 1. Why did you pick the title Hot Apple Cider for this book? 2. How did this partnership between The Word Guild and World Vision come about? 3. What is Girls Night Out? 4. How did you get 30 authors to come up with the money to print the 30,000 copies of the book that have been donated? 5. How is giving this book out going to help children who have been affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa and other locations? Questions For N. J. Lindquist 6. In your story, “The Diamond Ring,” in Hot Apple Cider, you wrote about feeling different. One of the reasons you felt different was because you were adopted. How has being adopted affected your life? 7. The other reason you felt different was because you were gifted and creative. How has your life been affected by those two traits? 8. What advice do you have for other people who feel different? 9. Your chapter in Hot Apple Cider called “My Letter to the Editor” talks about a letter that you wrote when you were 12-years-old that was published in your local newspaper. You’ve obviously been expressing yourself—and your faith—through writing for a long time. What is writing to you? 10. What advice would you give to a parent who has a young child who wants to be a writer? 11. Where can people go for help if they want to be writers? Questions for Wendy Elaine Nelles 12. You have a lot of experience in journalism, in corporate communications and in editing, but you’re not an author yourself. Why did you get involved in Hot Apple Cider? 13. What does editing an anthology mean? Can you tell us something about what was involved in editing a large project such as this? Books that integrate real faith with real life Box 487, Markham ON L3P 3R1 PH: 905-471-1447 Fax: 905-471-6912 Email: thats-life at rogers.com www.thatslifecommunications.com Authors in Hot Apple Cider Carolyn Arends of Surrey, BC www.carolynarends.com Arends is a recording artist, author and speaker who has released 9 albums and two books. She is known for a warm, engaging style that leaves her audiences feeling they’ve found a new best friend. Brian Austin of Durham, ON www.wordalive.ca Brian Austin has had more than 80 articles and poems published. He has a passion for audio poetry, and loves books. He works in a Bible Book Store and also serves as Church Librarian. Paul Beckingham of Vancouver, BC http://walkingtowardshope.blogspot.com Paul Beckingham, a professor at Carey Theological College, has authored more than 60 creative and faith-based articles, which have appeared in more than 15 Christian and secular publications, including Crux, The Atlantic Baptist, and FaithWorks (USA). Paul Boge of Winnipeg, MB www.paulboge.com Paul Boge is a professional engineer and has written numerous film reviews, book reviews and articles. He’s been active in inner city rescue work and recently spent two months teaching at an orphanage in Kenya. Mark Buchanan of Duncan, BC www.markbuchanan.net Pastor Mark Buchanan lives on Vancouver Island. He is husband to one wife, father to three children, and author of four books. Brad Burke of Windsor, ON/Metamora, MI www.bradburke.com Brad Burke, MD, is a Canadian Christian medical specialist, speaker, and author who took a five-year sabbatical from practicing medicine to research and write the compelling four-book series, An MD Examines. Donna Carter of Calgary, AB www.straighttalk.ab.ca Donna Carter is a dynamic, sought-after speaker because of her clarity, humour, and the light bulb moments she triggers. A cofounder of Straight Talk Ministries, her passion is to help people apply faith to everyday life. Keith Clemons of Caledon, ON www.clemonsbooks.com Keith is a five-times-award-winning author who uses fiction to highlight current issues. When he isn’t writing, Keith makes TV and radio appearances where he discusses trends that impact church and society. Donna Dawson (Donna Fawcett) of St. Mary’s, ON www.authordonnadawson.com Donna Fawcett and her husband live in rural Southwestern ON. At age 27, she surrendered her life to Christ and now writes freelance articles and faith-based thriller novels. Donna shares her ideas at www.authordonnadawson.com. Angelina Fast-Vlaar of St. Catharines, ON www.valleyofcancer.faithweb.com Angelina Fast-Vlaar is a retired college instructor who has written two books and various articles and poems. An inspirational speaker, she uses her wide range of experience to communicate hope and encouragement. Books that integrate real faith with real life Box 487, Markham ON L3P 3R1 PH: 905-471-1447 Fax: 905-471-6912 Email: thats-life at rogers.com www.thatslifecommunications.com Grace Fox of Abbotsford, BC www.gracefox.com Grace Fox is an author and speaker who helps women develop a fearless faith in Jesus Christ. With contagious desire, she shows how God’s truth can empower women to conquer fear. Jean Chamberlain Froese of Hamilton, ON www.savethemothers.com Dr. Chamberlain Froese is the founding executive director of Save the Mothers. She lives and works overseas eight months a year in Uganda, and is in Hamilton, Ont. annually from May to September, where she’s an assistant professor and directs McMaster University's International Women's Health Program. W. Harold Fuller of Stouffville, ON www3.sympatico.ca/harold.fuller W. Harold Fuller, Lit. D., author of 12 books, has ministered on six continents, including editing African Challenge, Africa’s largest circulation monthly. Retired, he and his wife Lorna continue writing and editing. Sheila Wray Gregoire of Belleville, ON www.sheilawraygregoire.com or http://tolovehonorandvacuum.blogspot.co m Sheila is a popular speaker and author of four books. She loves encouraging women to focus on God's best, rather than the size of the dust bunnies under their bed! Bonnie Grove of Saskatoon, SK www.bonniegrove.com Bonnie is an innovative thinker and writer who has developed several social programs currently in use in Alberta. Her first Christian non-fiction book, Living Out of Your Strengths, is coming out later in the year. Deborah Gyapong of Ottawa, ON http://deborahgyapong.blogspot.com/ Deborah Waters Gyapong’s journalism career spans more than 20 years in television, print and radio, including 12 years as a producer for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation’s television news and current affairs programming. Jane Harris of Lethbridge, AB www.visionofcanada.com Author and journalist, Jane Harris digs into the political and social issues that make Canada unique. Writing in both mainstream and Christian media, she helps us understand Canada's destiny and our role in achieving it. David Kitz of Orleans, ON www.davidkitz.ca David Kitz is an award-winning author and an actor, who through the medium of books and drama, brings God's word to life. Marcia Lee Laycock of Blackfalds, AB www.vinemarc.com Marcia is an award-winning writer and speaker. Her work has appeared in magazines and newspapers in Canada and the U.S. and been performed on CBC radio. Keturah Leonforde of Guelph, ON www.keturahleonforde.com Keturah Leonforde has one life mission— inspiring individuals to identify and achieve theirs. Whether as an award-winning author, consultant, coach or presenter, Keturah's passion has helped countless individuals pursue their God-given destiny! N. J. Lindquist of Markham, ON www.njlindquist.com N. J. Lindquist is an inspiring motivational speaker and a versatile author with 11 books for both adults and teens. Her goal is to see people become all God created them to be. Books that integrate real faith with real life Box 487, Markham ON L3P 3R1 PH: 905-471-1447 Fax: 905-471-6912 Email: thats-life at rogers.com www.thatslifecommunications.com Dorene Meyer of Norway House, MB www.dorenemeyer.com M. D. Meyer is the award-winning author of three books, and editor of four anthologies. Dorene mentors, edits and teaches writing classes, giving encouragement and practical help to novice and aspiring authors. Denyse O’Leary of Toronto, ON http://mindfulhack.blogspot.com Denyse O’Leary has been a freelance writer since 1971. She specializes in science news of interest to faith communities for such publications as Christianity Today, Faith Today, and the Christian Times. She has three award-winning books. Don Ranney, MD of Waterloo, ON http://www.ahs.uwaterloo.ca/~ranney/ Orthopaedic surgeon Don Ranney performed leprosy reconstructive surgery in India. As associate professor at the University of Waterloo he established the School of Anatomy. Publications include 112 scientific articles, four non-fiction books, six short stories and one novel. Diane Robin Lee of Port Perry, ON www.bydesignmedia.ca Diane Roblin-Lee is an award-winning author, speaker and former TV Host of Nite Lite and Raiders of the Lost. She has produced 20 books, five of which were privately commissioned. Eleanor Shepherd of Pointe Claire, Quebec http://eleanorshepherd.blogspot.com Eleanor has had more than 90 articles published in Canada, the United States, France, Switzerland and New Zealand. She is also a speaker in Europe and North America, and even hosted a radio call-in show in Paris, France. Ray Wiseman of Fergus, ON www.ray.wiseman.ca Ray Wiseman, former pastor, video engineer and now author has written eight books, fiction and non-fiction, and more than 900 magazine columns, articles and editorials. He typically tackles tough issues. Carmen Wittmeier of Calgary, AB www.carmenwittmeier.blogspot.com Carmen completed her MA in English at the University of Alberta in 1999 and taught college courses, edited novels, and wrote fiction before joining World Vision Canada in 2007. She has one book, Affirming the Birth Mother’s Journey. Eric E. Wright of Colborne, ON www.countrywindow.ca Eric Wright’s six non-fiction books reflect his desire to make biblical truth simple, inspiring and relevant. His suspense fiction targets the general reader. He is a teacher, preacher and editor of the Fellowship LINK magazine. Ron Wyse of Markham, ON www.marriageupgrade.com Ron Wyse brings to his reflections on marriage almost twenty years in a crosscultural marriage, life on three continents, as well as training in both Scripture and counselling.