Released in 2011, Concordia Publishing House’s newest and best-selling children’s Bible, The Story Bible, has been selected as a finalist for the 2012 Evangelical Christian Publishers Association (ECPA) Christian Book Award in the category of “Children’s Books.”
Out of hundreds of entries of books and Bibles published in the past year, five finalists (and five ties) in seven categories were chosen to represent Christian publishing’s finest books and Bibles for 2012.
“This year’s 40 finalists and five ties represent the strength and quality of content our industry continues to produce, in both seasoned and new voices and from small, mid-sized and large publishing houses,” said ECPA President Mark Kuyper. “We congratulate each author and the 16 publishers represented on this list.”
The Story Bible — created for children ages 3 and older — features lifelike, high-quality illustrations, Christ-centered stories and resources to enhance learning. It is designed for use in homes, preschools and congregations.
“Aside from beautiful pictures and a wonderful design, The Story Bible offers something no other children’s Bible provides: the wonderful Christ-centered power of the real and true Holy Scriptures,” said the Rev. Paul McCain, publisher at CPH.
Developing the Bible was a task that its editors, the Rev. Edward Engelbrecht and Gail Pawlitz, did not take lightly. Hundreds of hours were spent researching and field-testing the product, and the artwork alone took four years to compile.
In the end, the final product was worth it, said Engelbrecht. “The Story Bible was a dream project for me since I had used numerous Bible story books with my four children but was never quite happy with what was available.”
“We are so honored to be a finalist for this award; it is extremely gratifying to see your work recognized,” he added.
CPH has four additional titles that have been featured as ECPA Gold Medallion winners and finalists in the past. They include The Very First Christmas (gold medallion winner, 1998), The Very First Easter (silver medallion winner, 2000), Martin Luther: A Man Who Changed the World (finalist, 2005) and He Was Crucified (finalist, 2009).
The ECPA award will be announced and presented in late April.
To learn more about CPH resources, visit www.cph.org or call 800-325-3040.
Posted April 11, 2012