In the movie What A Girl Wants, a fatherless North American 17-year-old flies to England looking for her British father whom she’s never met. When Daphne finally encounters her father, his initial response is ‘Sorry, not interested.’ As Daphne sadly picks up her bags to leave, her father has a sudden partial change of heart.
Sadly many young people feel disconnected from their fathers. Some have never known their fathers. Many feel a longing for a close relationship with their dad, but fear that this is impossible. Will their father really be interested?
I am so grateful to have a growing relationship with my own 94-year old Father. He has shown me time and again that he is deeply interested in my life and activities. I remember when he volunteered to be our baseball umpire, one of the most painful jobs that a loving father can take on.
Canadians are so polite. I have noticed that many Canadians will politely avoid any conversations related to politics or religion. “Sorry, not interested”. Imagine if one of us were having a crisis and decided to pray to God only to hear him say “Sorry, not interested.”. We assume that God is naturally fascinated with our lives. And we are right. God never finds us boring, irrelevant, or stupid. God cares for us as his own offspring, his own personal creation, made in his very own image. The Father is deeply interested in each one of us.
Thank God that we are not just a statistic, a number, an accident. Our Father sees us as deeply valuable. Each of us are people for whom Christ died. Each of us are wonderfully and fearfully made.
Let us give thanks for our earthly fathers, but most of all for the Heavenly Father who loves us with an everlasting love.
Rev. Dr. Ed Hird, BSW, MDiv, DMin
-an article previously published in the North Shore News/Deep Cove Crier
P. S. Click this Amazon link to view for free the first two chapters of our new novel Blue Sky.
“I’m afraid there’s been an accident…”
Sandy Brown and her family have just moved to Spokane, Washington where her husband, Scott, is pastoring a new church. With a fresh start, Sandy is determined to devote more time to her four children. But, within weeks of settling in their new life, the Brown family is plunged into turmoil.
Sandy receives shocking news that her children aren’t safe, which brings back haunting memories of the trauma she experienced as a girl. Then, the unthinkable happens…
A brutal attack puts Sandy on the brink of losing everything she’s loved. Her faith in God and the family she cherishes are pushed to the ultimate limit.
Is healing possible when so many loved ones are hurt? Are miracles really possible through the power of prayer? Can life return to the way it was before?
Blue Sky reveals how a mother’s most basic instinct isn’t for survival… but for family.
If you’re a fan of Karen Kingsbury, then you’ll love Blue Sky. Get your copy today on paperback or kindle.
-The sequel book Restoring Health: body, mind and spirit is available online with Amazon.com in both paperback and ebook form. Dr. JI Packer wrote the foreword, saying “I heartily commend what he has written.” The book focuses on strengthening a new generation of healthy leaders. Drawing on examples from Titus’ healthy leadership in the pirate island of Crete, it shows how we can embrace a holistically healthy life.
To receive a personally signed copy of any of our books within North America, just etransfer at ed_hird@telus.net, giving your address. Cheques are also acceptable.
-Click to purchase the Companion Bible Study by Jan Cox (for the Battle of the Soul of Canada) in both paperback and Kindle on Amazon.com and Amazon.ca
-Click to purchase the Companion Bible Study by Jan Cox (for the Battle of the Soul of Canada) in both paperback and Kindle on Amazon.com and Amazon.ca
To purchase any of our six books in paperback or ebook on Amazon, just click on this link.
Twenty-nine years ago I first met Lucy Smith. She wrote me a very kind letter about one of my first articles written for the Deep Cove Crier. Most writers can live for two weeks on a single compliment. Over the years, I visited Lucy Smith a number of times, and always been impressed by her good temper and her deep faith. Lucy Smith lived right next door to Maplewood Farms, and right across the street from Maplewood School in North Vancouver, BC.
On Monday March 16th 2009, I had the privilege of sharing my brief reflections about Lucy at her funeral at West Coast Christian Fellowship. The longer I live, the more I appreciate a well-done funeral. Pastor David Bornman, who has known Lucy for many years, weaved Lucy’s life story into a message of hope for others. Pastor Bornman spoke of life after death, commenting that ‘Lucy has just transferred her address.’ One person mentioned the TV Show ‘I Love Lucy’ as an appropriate symbol of how others felt about Lucy Smith.
Lucy was raised on the North Shore in West Vancouver, and later moved to Maplewood where she lived until age 91. Maplewood is a rather hidden part of the Seymour/Deep Cove Community. Lucy was well known as a cat-lover. She was also a member of the Alpine Club of Canada. Remarkably Lucy once trekked to the eighteen-thousand-foot level of Mount Everest.
Much of Lucy’s passion for the outdoors came from her life-long involvement in Girl Guiding. Many Guiding Commissioners attended the funeral, expressing their deep love and appreciation for all that Lucy did for the Guiding movement.
Lucy was also a poet. She loved to write about the beauty of God’s creation. On Feb 5th 1982, Lucy wrote a poem while looking out at the North Shore mountains from the Stanley Park Seawall. Nature brought Lucy closer to God. She wrote: “In those beautiful settings, the Lord seemed very near. My heart responded in a way which only He could hear.”
Lucy worked for many years in the business world, so she was aware of how city life can swallow a person up. She wrote: “How often is that true of us, in one way or another, do we blot out the still small voice and even one another?”
Lucy developed a strong prayer life that kept her from becoming negative or frazzled. She wrote: “Let’s try instead to lean on Him whose arms are always there, to steady us and give us peace, and all our burdens share.” Whenever I visited Lucy, we always ended with a prayer. Many people just let the clergy pray, but Lucy always joined in with her own prayers as well.
The last time that I met Lucy was at Lions Gate Hospital where I was taking the Chapel Communion service. She was such a delight to be with. The love of Jesus beamed from her, even when she was frail. Lucy didn’t fear death, because she believed in the reality of Easter, that Jesus conquered death for our sake. My prayer for those reading this article is that each of us may be as prepared, as Lucy Smith was for the afterlife.
Rev. Dr. Ed Hird, BSW, MDiv, DMin
-an article previously published in the Deep Cove Crier/North Shore News.
P. S. Click this Amazon link to view for free the first two chapters of our new novel Blue Sky.
“I’m afraid there’s been an accident…”
Sandy Brown and her family have just moved to Spokane, Washington where her husband, Scott, is pastoring a new church. With a fresh start, Sandy is determined to devote more time to her four children. But, within weeks of settling in their new life, the Brown family is plunged into turmoil.
Sandy receives shocking news that her children aren’t safe, which brings back haunting memories of the trauma she experienced as a girl. Then, the unthinkable happens…
A brutal attack puts Sandy on the brink of losing everything she’s loved. Her faith in God and the family she cherishes are pushed to the ultimate limit.
Is healing possible when so many loved ones are hurt? Are miracles really possible through the power of prayer? Can life return to the way it was before?
Blue Sky reveals how a mother’s most basic instinct isn’t for survival… but for family.
If you’re a fan of Karen Kingsbury, then you’ll love Blue Sky. Get your copy today on paperback or kindle.
-The sequel book Restoring Health: body, mind and spirit is available online with Amazon.com in both paperback and ebook form. Dr. JI Packer wrote the foreword, saying “I heartily commend what he has written.” The book focuses on strengthening a new generation of healthy leaders. Drawing on examples from Titus’ healthy leadership in the pirate island of Crete, it shows how we can embrace a holistically healthy life.
To receive a personally signed copy of any of our books within North America, just etransfer at ed_hird@telus.net, giving your address. Cheques are also acceptable.
-Click to purchase the Companion Bible Study by Jan Cox (for the Battle of the Soul of Canada) in both paperback and Kindle on Amazon.com and Amazon.ca
-Click to purchase the Companion Bible Study by Jan Cox (for the Battle of the Soul of Canada) in both paperback and Kindle on Amazon.com and Amazon.ca
To purchase any of our six books in paperback or ebook on Amazon, just click on this link.
P. S. Click this Amazon link to view for free the first two chapters of our new novel Blue Sky.
“I’m afraid there’s been an accident…”
Sandy Brown and her family have just moved to Spokane, Washington where her husband, Scott, is pastoring a new church. With a fresh start, Sandy is determined to devote more time to her four children. But, within weeks of settling in their new life, the Brown family is plunged into turmoil.
Sandy receives shocking news that her children aren’t safe, which brings back haunting memories of the trauma she experienced as a girl. Then, the unthinkable happens…
A brutal attack puts Sandy on the brink of losing everything she’s loved. Her faith in God and the family she cherishes are pushed to the ultimate limit.
Is healing possible when so many loved ones are hurt? Are miracles really possible through the power of prayer? Can life return to the way it was before?
Blue Sky reveals how a mother’s most basic instinct isn’t for survival… but for family.
If you’re a fan of Karen Kingsbury, then you’ll love Blue Sky. Get your copy today on paperback or kindle.
-The sequel book Restoring Health: body, mind and spirit is available online with Amazon.com in both paperback and ebook form. Dr. JI Packer wrote the foreword, saying “I heartily commend what he has written.” The book focuses on strengthening a new generation of healthy leaders. Drawing on examples from Titus’ healthy leadership in the pirate island of Crete, it shows how we can embrace a holistically healthy life.
To receive a personally signed copy of any of our books within North America, just etransfer at ed_hird@telus.net, giving your address. Cheques are also acceptable.
-Click to purchase the Companion Bible Study by Jan Cox (for the Battle of the Soul of Canada) in both paperback and Kindle on Amazon.com and Amazon.ca
-Click to purchase the Companion Bible Study by Jan Cox (for the Battle of the Soul of Canada) in both paperback and Kindle on Amazon.com and Amazon.ca
To purchase any of our six books in paperback or ebook on Amazon, just click on this link.
Having just heard Brian Stiller speak again, it motivated me to read his new book ‘From Jerusalem to Timbuktu“. I found it a challenging but readable book. Brian is relentlessly thoughtful, gracious, and curious. Having heard him in person, the book made even more sense. While Brian is a good writer, he is a captivating speaker. In this book, thanks to his remarkably wide travels, he is able to take you into many world settings that you might have never entered. His kindness and wisdom are seen on every chapter. Brian writes in a way that deeply encourages you about what God is doing around the world. His insights into this being the age of the Spirit were convincing, particularly as he tied this into other factors like the global impact of bible translation, indigenization, re-engaging the public square, and a rediscovery of wholeness. He has packed so much into this book that it at times can feel overwhelming. Perhaps there are too many themes, but that is also Brian’s genius, as he is a global visionary. I would encourage you to buy this book and share it with other people who are willing to put on their ‘thinking caps.’
Rev. Dr. Ed Hird, BSW, MDiv, DMin
P. S. Click this Amazon link to view for free the first two chapters of our new novel Blue Sky.
“I’m afraid there’s been an accident…”
Sandy Brown and her family have just moved to Spokane, Washington where her husband, Scott, is pastoring a new church. With a fresh start, Sandy is determined to devote more time to her four children. But, within weeks of settling in their new life, the Brown family is plunged into turmoil.
Sandy receives shocking news that her children aren’t safe, which brings back haunting memories of the trauma she experienced as a girl. Then, the unthinkable happens…
A brutal attack puts Sandy on the brink of losing everything she’s loved. Her faith in God and the family she cherishes are pushed to the ultimate limit.
Is healing possible when so many loved ones are hurt? Are miracles really possible through the power of prayer? Can life return to the way it was before?
Blue Sky reveals how a mother’s most basic instinct isn’t for survival… but for family.
If you’re a fan of Karen Kingsbury, then you’ll love Blue Sky. Get your copy today on paperback or kindle.
-The sequel book Restoring Health: body, mind and spirit is available online with Amazon.com in both paperback and ebook form. Dr. JI Packer wrote the foreword, saying “I heartily commend what he has written.” The book focuses on strengthening a new generation of healthy leaders. Drawing on examples from Titus’ healthy leadership in the pirate island of Crete, it shows how we can embrace a holistically healthy life.
To receive a personally signed copy of any of our books within North America, just etransfer at ed_hird@telus.net, giving your address. Cheques are also acceptable.
-Click to purchase the Companion Bible Study by Jan Cox (for the Battle of the Soul of Canada) in both paperback and Kindle on Amazon.com and Amazon.ca
-Click to purchase the Companion Bible Study by Jan Cox (for the Battle of the Soul of Canada) in both paperback and Kindle on Amazon.com and Amazon.ca
To purchase any of our six books in paperback or ebook on Amazon, just click on this link.
Have you ever hit the wall in attempting to market your books? What if I told you that this book by Rob Eager could be the turning point in significantly increasing your book sales? Rob’s latest series of three books is once again well worth one’s time and money. So many authors suffer in this internet age from how to market their amazing books.
Eager in ‘The Author’s Guide to Write Text that Sells Books‘ helps unpack this mystery in practical ways. He explains in this book that with people being self-centered and distracted, we not only need to tell them what’s in it for them (Why should they buy our book? How will it concretely benefit them?). Even more important, we need to get their attention in the first place. Rob convincingly explains how busy and overwhelmed our potential readers are. The key to breaking through the ‘fog’ is the power of the hook, which Rob masterfully explains. He starts with the helpful expression “What if I told you that…?” I am finding his advice on the marketing hook to be a missing key in more effectively selling my books. My one critique is that I would have valued more stories in the book that illustrate how his ‘hook’ book actually works in real life. It would have been helpful to have real-life stories not just from the superstar authors, but also lesser-known authors who have been able to measurably increase their book sales through applying Rob Eager’s principles in his book. I look forward to Rob’s future marketing books, as his creative practicality is paying great dividends. Do yourself a favour, buy Rob’s book, and measurably increase your book revenue.
Rev Dr Ed Hird, BSW, MDiv, DMin
P. S. Click this Amazon link to view for free the first two chapters of our new novel Blue Sky.
“I’m afraid there’s been an accident…”
Sandy Brown and her family have just moved to Spokane, Washington where her husband, Scott, is pastoring a new church. With a fresh start, Sandy is determined to devote more time to her four children. But, within weeks of settling in their new life, the Brown family is plunged into turmoil.
Sandy receives shocking news that her children aren’t safe, which brings back haunting memories of the trauma she experienced as a girl. Then, the unthinkable happens…
A brutal attack puts Sandy on the brink of losing everything she’s loved. Her faith in God and the family she cherishes are pushed to the ultimate limit.
Is healing possible when so many loved ones are hurt? Are miracles really possible through the power of prayer? Can life return to the way it was before?
Blue Sky reveals how a mother’s most basic instinct isn’t for survival… but for family.
If you’re a fan of Karen Kingsbury, then you’ll love Blue Sky. Get your copy today on paperback or kindle.
-The sequel book Restoring Health: body, mind and spirit is available online with Amazon.com in both paperback and ebook form. Dr. JI Packer wrote the foreword, saying “I heartily commend what he has written.” The book focuses on strengthening a new generation of healthy leaders. Drawing on examples from Titus’ healthy leadership in the pirate island of Crete, it shows how we can embrace a holistically healthy life.
To receive a personally signed copy of any of our books within North America, just etransfer at ed_hird@telus.net, giving your address. Cheques are also acceptable.
-Click to purchase the Companion Bible Study by Jan Cox (for the Battle of the Soul of Canada) in both paperback and Kindle on Amazon.com and Amazon.ca
-Click to purchase the Companion Bible Study by Jan Cox (for the Battle of the Soul of Canada) in both paperback and Kindle on Amazon.com and Amazon.ca
To purchase any of our six books in paperback or ebook on Amazon, just click on this link.
We had a great time at the West Coast Word Guild Writers Weekend, sponsored by the White Rock/South Surrey TWG Chapter, led by Neil Bramble. The Rev Jim Wilson gave some excellent online talks that you can really benefit from.
i) Rev Jim Wilson ministering on “It’s a Season” at Eternity Club in Burnaby BC with Rev Audrey Mabley. What if we told you that the fourth Great Awakening has already begun?
P. S. Click this Amazon link to view for free the first two chapters of our new novel Blue Sky.
“I’m afraid there’s been an accident…”
Sandy Brown and her family have just moved to Spokane, Washington where her husband, Scott, is pastoring a new church. With a fresh start, Sandy is determined to devote more time to her four children. But, within weeks of settling in their new life, the Brown family is plunged into turmoil.
Sandy receives shocking news that her children aren’t safe, which brings back haunting memories of the trauma she experienced as a girl. Then, the unthinkable happens…
A brutal attack puts Sandy on the brink of losing everything she’s loved. Her faith in God and the family she cherishes are pushed to the ultimate limit.
Is healing possible when so many loved ones are hurt? Are miracles really possible through the power of prayer? Can life return to the way it was before?
Blue Sky reveals how a mother’s most basic instinct isn’t for survival… but for family.
If you’re a fan of Karen Kingsbury, then you’ll love Blue Sky. Get your copy today on paperback or kindle.
-The sequel book Restoring Health: body, mind and spirit is available online with Amazon.com in both paperback and ebook form. Dr. JI Packer wrote the foreword, saying “I heartily commend what he has written.” The book focuses on strengthening a new generation of healthy leaders. Drawing on examples from Titus’ healthy leadership in the pirate island of Crete, it shows how we can embrace a holistically healthy life.
To receive a personally signed copy of any of our books within North America, just etransfer at ed_hird@telus.net, giving your address. Cheques are also acceptable.
-Click to purchase the Companion Bible Study by Jan Cox (for the Battle of the Soul of Canada) in both paperback and Kindle on Amazon.com and Amazon.ca
-Click to purchase the Companion Bible Study by Jan Cox (for the Battle of the Soul of Canada) in both paperback and Kindle on Amazon.com and Amazon.ca
To purchase any of our six books in paperback or ebook on Amazon, just click on this link.
Rose Seiler Scott’s book Threaten to Undo Us (available on Amazon) is engaging and compelling.
Those of us in the West have rightfully connected with the tragedy of the holocaust experienced by six million Jewish people during WW2. Most of us however have been unaware that countless innocent German civilians ended up in the very same concentration camps that the Jews had been liberated from. The anger by the Poles and Russians against the Nazis resulted in many innocent Germans being raped, starved, expelled, tortured and separated from their families. Humanity’s inhumanity to humanity is accurately recorded in this compelling story. Leisel, a committed follower of Jesus Christ, walks the way of Christ in relentlessly sacrificing for her family and others against impossible odds. This book is hard to put down. Most of us know little about this untold story. Rose Scott is a gifted writer who enables you to enter her family’s world. One suggestion is that the first chapter could use tightening up, as it took me a while to get the direction of the novel. This book could benefit from a sequel.
Rev Dr Ed Hird, BSW, MDiv, DMin
P. S. Click this Amazon link to view for free the first two chapters of our new novel Blue Sky.
“I’m afraid there’s been an accident…”
Sandy Brown and her family have just moved to Spokane, Washington where her husband, Scott, is pastoring a new church. With a fresh start, Sandy is determined to devote more time to her four children. But, within weeks of settling in their new life, the Brown family is plunged into turmoil.
Sandy receives shocking news that her children aren’t safe, which brings back haunting memories of the trauma she experienced as a girl. Then, the unthinkable happens…
A brutal attack puts Sandy on the brink of losing everything she’s loved. Her faith in God and the family she cherishes are pushed to the ultimate limit.
Is healing possible when so many loved ones are hurt? Are miracles really possible through the power of prayer? Can life return to the way it was before?
Blue Sky reveals how a mother’s most basic instinct isn’t for survival… but for family.
If you’re a fan of Karen Kingsbury, then you’ll love Blue Sky. Get your copy today on paperback or kindle.
-The sequel book Restoring Health: body, mind and spirit is available online with Amazon.com in both paperback and ebook form. Dr. JI Packer wrote the foreword, saying “I heartily commend what he has written.” The book focuses on strengthening a new generation of healthy leaders. Drawing on examples from Titus’ healthy leadership in the pirate island of Crete, it shows how we can embrace a holistically healthy life.
To receive a signed copy within North America, just send a $20 cheque (USD/CAN) to ED HIRD, 102 – 15168 19th Avenue, Surrey, BC, V4A 0A5, Canada.
-Click to purchase the Companion Bible Study by Jan Cox (for the Battle of the Soul of Canada) in both paperback and Kindle on Amazon.com and Amazon.ca
-Click to purchase the Companion Bible Study by Jan Cox (for the Battle of the Soul of Canada) in both paperback and Kindle on Amazon.com and Amazon.ca
To purchase any of our six books in paperback or ebook on Amazon, just click on this link.
A key to going from good to great in writing is following your heart and your gut where it leads you. If your writing doesn’t grip you, it will not grip anyone else. One of my and Janice’s passions, as expressed in our latest book For Better, for Worse: discovering the keys to a lasting relationship is for strengthening marriages. My 500+ newspaper articles found on edhird.com (with 815,000 readers) emerged out of my passion for history and biography. Many of these articles have later become chapters in my books like Restoring Health: body, mind and spirit. I am currently doing a biography series for the LightMagazine covering BC and Alberta. Lean into your passions. What wakes you up in the morning? What really matters to you? What are you willing to sacrifice for?
Nonfiction has more to do with facts and history. Many readers are women who are looking for a break from the stress of life. A high percentage of books are purchased by women as Christmas presents. How might your nonfiction book give people a break from the stress of life?
Another key to greatness in writing is the willingness to initially write badly. Turning off the inner critic for a time. Anything on the page is better than brilliance in your head. Fight your clever ways that you procrastinate.
Learn to respect your creative rhythms, your waves of inspiration. If you are a morning person, be a morning writer, or vice versa. Surf (write) when the creative waves hit. You can prepare for the wave, but you can’t control it. Our co-presenter the Rev. Jim Wilson, by the way, cut his teeth on surfing. This inspired his recent amazing novel Generation which tells a compelling story about California surfers in the 1960s. Click to watch Jim explain how to get a breakthrough in your writing.
Most ‘good’ books stay good rather than great, because of inadequate editing and inadequate marketing. Are you willing to sacrifice your time, talent and treasure in order to go for greatness? Writing is an act of Kingdom stewardship. I have been privileged to serve twice on the faculty for the TWG Write! Canada conference, teaching on marketing books. Rob Eagar’s material is an excellent resource in the marketing area.
Marketing cannot just be added after the book is written. It needs to be built into the very DNA of the book. The back cover must not be boring or self-centered. Good marketing gives the potential reader a reason to care. Readers in the internet age are suffering from information overload. Communicate clearly about how your book will benefit your readers’ lives.
What is your marketing ‘elevator speech’? Every book needs a hook. What is your hook? Build the hook into the text of your book, as well as your back cover. Try completing this ‘hook’ sentence about your book: What if I told you that….?
Learn how to maximize Amazon which is where most people buy books nowadays. Offer both eBooks and paperback. Experiment with targeted Amazon paid ads, focusing on age, education, geography, interests. Rob Eagar says that Amazon ads are more effective than Facebook ads. Experiment with both. To increase Amazon visibility, aim to have at least thirty people write brief Amazon.com book reviews. You cannot pay them, but you can ask them. Sometimes they are more likely to do a book review for you, if you have already done one for them. Think of the golden rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do for you.” I have 36 Amazon book reviews of my Restoring Health book. Later usually means never in terms of book sales. Strengthen the closing of your sale (pulling in the net) by offering on amazon and other contexts a time-limited $3.00 savings. Think FOMO (fear of missing out).
A key to great editing is developing a thick skin so that you can hear editing suggestions. Defensiveness and stonewalling keep your book in the childish stage rather than childlike excellence. CS Lewis, GK Chesterton, and JRR Tolkien had a wonderful childlikeness in their writing. 1 Corinthians 13:11 “When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me.” Mark 10:14-15 “Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” How childlike and playful are you in your books? As they say in Family Systems Theory, when everything is serious, urgent and important, something is out of whack.
Paying for a professional editor is worth every dollar. The Word Guild can help you connect with a good editor. On the recommendation of the Word Guild co-founder NJ Lindquist, we used Audrey Dorsch. If you can’t afford a paid editor, draw on the wisdom of other authors.
Canadian writers who are Christians face many challenges in the current market a) the dominance of the American market with most publishers being in the USA b) the collapse of many book stores in the internet age c) finding your tribe d) building your platform. Your tribe are those who share your passions and interests particularly in your book themes. Search for where they hang out on the internet and other face to face settings. Your platform consists of those who you have regular access to through social and traditional media like newspapers, radio and TV. To connect with your tribe and build your platform, offer a free eBook to those who sign up to your blog email. I have 41,000+ social media followers.
Being part of a writer’s organization, like The Word Guild, helps keep you motivated. We are active in the local Word Guild Chapter for Surrey, led by Neil Bramble. When I won a Word Guild award for the book Battle for the Soul of Canada, it helped opened many doors for newspaper, radio and TV articles and interviews. It is very easy when isolated to give in to writers’ discouragement. Sometimes we become too close to our writing and need to walk away until we can become a more objective reader of our own writing.
Establishing your credibility in the eyes of the potential reader is key. Jim Wilson our co-presenter is an example of how to do this. I encourage you to watch Jim’s ‘Writing Weekend’ videos which are posted online on Facebook and Youtube. What has Jim communicated in the videos that lead you to believe that he knows what he is talking about? What might you ‘humbly’ and ‘confidently’ say about yourself? Click to watch Rev. Jim Wilson and myself teach on writing nonfiction.
The book cover, the book title, and the back page are essential for motivating people to try out your book. How have you developed some of your book covers and book titles? Bill Glasgow of Wm. Glasgow Design in Abbotsford has done the book cover and layout for my last three books. Many book stores told me that the professionalism of the book cover and layout was why they accepted my book on consignment. Most back covers do not grab you with a compelling hook.
Conference speaking where you can promote your books from the podium is a major key to selling your books, directing people to a book table at the back that you and/or friends man. Bring a bowl and put a number of five-dollar bills in the bowl to help with change. Make up an attractive mini-poster with your book prices to put in a picture frame. Offering to personally sign your book can help improve sales. If you struggle with public speaking (the greatest fear on earth), consider attending Toastmasters and reading library books on public speaking.
Pray and soaking in God’s Word is key in writing books in Jesus’ name
P. S. Click this Amazon link to view for free the first two chapters of our new novel Blue Sky.
“I’m afraid there’s been an accident…”
Sandy Brown and her family have just moved to Spokane, Washington where her husband, Scott, is pastoring a new church. With a fresh start, Sandy is determined to devote more time to her four children. But, within weeks of settling in their new life, the Brown family is plunged into turmoil.
Sandy receives shocking news that her children aren’t safe, which brings back haunting memories of the trauma she experienced as a girl. Then, the unthinkable happens…
A brutal attack puts Sandy on the brink of losing everything she’s loved. Her faith in God and the family she cherishes are pushed to the ultimate limit.
Is healing possible when so many loved ones are hurt? Are miracles really possible through the power of prayer? Can life return to the way it was before?
Blue Sky reveals how a mother’s most basic instinct isn’t for survival… but for family.
If you’re a fan of Karen Kingsbury, then you’ll love Blue Sky. Get your copy today on paperback or kindle.
-The sequel book Restoring Health: body, mind and spirit is available online with Amazon.com in both paperback and ebook form. Dr. JI Packer wrote the foreword, saying “I heartily commend what he has written.” The book focuses on strengthening a new generation of healthy leaders. Drawing on examples from Titus’ healthy leadership in the pirate island of Crete, it shows how we can embrace a holistically healthy life.
To receive a personally signed copy of any of our books within North America, just etransfer at ed_hird@telus.net, giving your address. Cheques are also acceptable.
-Click to purchase the Companion Bible Study by Jan Cox (for the Battle of the Soul of Canada) in both paperback and Kindle on Amazon.com and Amazon.ca
-Click to purchase the Companion Bible Study by Jan Cox (for the Battle of the Soul of Canada) in both paperback and Kindle on Amazon.com and Amazon.ca
To purchase any of our six books in paperback or ebook on Amazon, just click on this link.
“This book serves, among other things, as a commentary on the two Epistles of St. Paul to young Timothy. It’s a text that is very relevant and informative concerning the need for Timothys in this age of spiritual compromise and excessive liberalism, both in the Anglican Church and at times in the Church in General. Just as St. Paul warned Timothy of apostasy and ‘perilous times’ in his day and charged him to warn others of this evil, so the author likewise is warning us that, in principle, we face the same dilemma in this current day and age.
The negative side, however, is well balanced by several positive reflections. For example, the author cites many historical figures, both from the secular and spiritual realms to show how our nation truly has a godly heritage. One of my favorites is the section The Passion of Louis Riel.
In view of these examples, our challenge now is to remain steadfast as a people of prayer and devotion to the Word of God, just as Timothy did through the influence of his spiritual Father and his godly mother and grandmother.
The title of this text truly reflects its contents: There is indeed an ongoing battle for the spiritual soul of Canada and a need for young, godly leaders to help us restore that godly heritage.
Rev. Dr. Les Johnson
Retired minister of Foursquare Gospel Church of Canada
P. S. Click this Amazon link to view for free the first two chapters of our new novel Blue Sky.
“I’m afraid there’s been an accident…”
Sandy Brown and her family have just moved to Spokane, Washington where her husband, Scott, is pastoring a new church. With a fresh start, Sandy is determined to devote more time to her four children. But, within weeks of settling in their new life, the Brown family is plunged into turmoil.
Sandy receives shocking news that her children aren’t safe, which brings back haunting memories of the trauma she experienced as a girl. Then, the unthinkable happens…
A brutal attack puts Sandy on the brink of losing everything she’s loved. Her faith in God and the family she cherishes are pushed to the ultimate limit.
Is healing possible when so many loved ones are hurt? Are miracles really possible through the power of prayer? Can life return to the way it was before?
Blue Sky reveals how a mother’s most basic instinct isn’t for survival… but for family.
If you’re a fan of Karen Kingsbury, then you’ll love Blue Sky. Get your copy today on paperback or kindle.
-The sequel book Restoring Health: body, mind and spirit is available online with Amazon.com in both paperback and ebook form. Dr. JI Packer wrote the foreword, saying “I heartily commend what he has written.” The book focuses on strengthening a new generation of healthy leaders. Drawing on examples from Titus’ healthy leadership in the pirate island of Crete, it shows how we can embrace a holistically healthy life.
To receive a personally signed copy of any of our books within North America, just etransfer at ed_hird@telus.net, giving your address. Cheques are also acceptable.
-Click to purchase the Companion Bible Study by Jan Cox (for the Battle of the Soul of Canada) in both paperback and Kindle on Amazon.com and Amazon.ca
-Click to purchase the Companion Bible Study by Jan Cox (for the Battle of the Soul of Canada) in both paperback and Kindle on Amazon.com and Amazon.ca
To purchase any of our six books in paperback or ebook on Amazon, just click on this link.
Our good friend Giulio Gabeli shared a thoughtful video message on forgiveness. It reminded me of Dr Gary Chapman’s amazing book The FiveLanguages of Apology which I talk about in our For Better, For Worse book, and talked about extensively in Uganda and Rwanda. You may remember the five languages, most of which I never practiced before I came to meet Christ personally. I used to defensively make excuses, blame others, and just try to move on without really resolving things. I highly commend Dr. Chapman’s book in which he deals with the five languages: 1) I’m sorry (regret) 2) I was wrong (responsibility) 3) How can I make it up to you? (restitution) 4) I’ll try not to do that again (repentance plan) 5) Will you please forgive me? (request).
P. S. Click this Amazon link to view for free the first two chapters of our new novel Blue Sky.
“I’m afraid there’s been an accident…”
Sandy Brown and her family have just moved to Spokane, Washington where her husband, Scott, is pastoring a new church. With a fresh start, Sandy is determined to devote more time to her four children. But, within weeks of settling in their new life, the Brown family is plunged into turmoil.
Sandy receives shocking news that her children aren’t safe, which brings back haunting memories of the trauma she experienced as a girl. Then, the unthinkable happens…
A brutal attack puts Sandy on the brink of losing everything she’s loved. Her faith in God and the family she cherishes are pushed to the ultimate limit.
Is healing possible when so many loved ones are hurt? Are miracles really possible through the power of prayer? Can life return to the way it was before?
Blue Sky reveals how a mother’s most basic instinct isn’t for survival… but for family.
If you’re a fan of Karen Kingsbury, then you’ll love Blue Sky. Get your copy today on paperback or kindle.
-The sequel book Restoring Health: body, mind and spirit is available online with Amazon.com in both paperback and ebook form. Dr. JI Packer wrote the foreword, saying “I heartily commend what he has written.” The book focuses on strengthening a new generation of healthy leaders. Drawing on examples from Titus’ healthy leadership in the pirate island of Crete, it shows how we can embrace a holistically healthy life.
To receive a personally signed copy of any of our books within North America, just etransfer at ed_hird@telus.net, giving your address. Cheques are also acceptable.
-Click to purchase the Companion Bible Study by Jan Cox (for the Battle of the Soul of Canada) in both paperback and Kindle on Amazon.com and Amazon.ca
-Click to purchase the Companion Bible Study by Jan Cox (for the Battle of the Soul of Canada) in both paperback and Kindle on Amazon.com and Amazon.ca
To purchase any of our six books in paperback or ebook on Amazon, just click on this link.
Sandy Brown and her family have just moved to Spokane, Washington where her husband, Scott, is pastoring a new church. With a fresh start, Sandy is determined to devote more time to her four children. But, within weeks of settling in their new life, the Brown family is plunged into turmoil.
Having just heard Brian Stiller speak again, it motivated me to read his new book ‘
We had a great time at the 
Rose Seiler Scott’s book Threaten to Undo Us (available on 
Nonfiction has more to do with facts and history. Many readers are women who are looking for a break from the stress of life. A high percentage of books are purchased by women as Christmas presents. How might your nonfiction book give people a break from the stress of life?
“This book serves, among other things, as a commentary on the two Epistles of St. Paul to young Timothy. It’s a text that is very relevant and informative concerning the need for Timothys in this age of spiritual compromise and excessive liberalism, both in the Anglican Church and at times in the Church in General. Just as St. Paul warned Timothy of apostasy and ‘perilous times’ in his day and charged him to warn others of this evil, so the author likewise is warning us that, in principle, we face the same dilemma in this current day and age.
Edhird's Blog 