Authors
Team Up to Donate $500,000 Worth of Books
30,000
copies of book will be given to women
Thirty
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 296-page
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 Gala at World Vision headquarters in
Mississauga, Ontario. Tickets for the evening are available from Ticketmaster.
Retail
copies of Hot Apple Cider will be available through normal
channels in the U.S.A. and Canada.
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.
Hot
Apple Cider is an inspirational anthology by 30 Canadian authors
who are Christian, including Carolyn Arends, Mark Buchanan, Keith
Clemons, Grace Fox, Sheila Wray Gregoire and Denyse O’Leary.
They've learned that dependence on God creates the character and insights
that produce a deep, rich faith.
The
thought-provoking and honest accounts in this book will stir your
heart and warm your soul. So unwind with a copy of Hot Apple Cider,
and let the stories surprise you, make you laugh, and inspire you
to have a deeper relationship with God.
Endorsements
“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 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 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
Authors'
Website - www.hotapplecider.ca
Write
a comment or ask a question about Hot Apple Cider on the authors'
blog
For
one-sheets and other promotional materials, see our media
page.
