Parable, Outreach Sign Major Author For Exclusive Book
Bodie and Brock Thoene agree to multi-book deal
(September 5, 2006) — Joining in a one-of-a-kind industry partnership, The Parable Group and Outreach, Inc. have signed best-selling authors Bodie and Brock Thoene to create an exclusive non-fiction book series, the Little Books of WhyTM. The first book in the series, Why a Manger? is scheduled to release mid-September. The books will be sold exclusively through Parable Christian Stores and Outreach direct-to-church channels (Outreach is a leading provider of church communication and outreach tools).
Why a Manger? follows the content of Bodie's Christmas message given across the U.S. for many years. Drawing from their meticulous research, the Thoenes tell the story of the nativity using historical facts. Many women have received Christ through this message of hope and hundreds have requested this message be put into book form.
The exclusive book deal signals a key shift in the industry. As independent Christian retailers struggle to remain profitable, new revenue streams must be found. Exclusive products provide much-needed margin for stores.
"This Christmas millions of people will see The Nativity Story in theaters but that doesn't necessarily mean they will make the spiritual connection," said Lynne Marian, vice president, Outreach, Inc. "Why a Manger helps make that connection," she said. "It will be a powerful tool for outreach in the hands of churches and individual Christians."
In partnering with Outreach to publish Why A Manger, Parable will add extra marketing muscle to their campaign, more effectively reaching pastors and churches.
"This is a leap of faith for Parable partnering with us to get the Why A Manger? message out," remarks Bodie. "After years of friendship and talking about this, Steve Potratz decided this was the moment; this was the message."
"We have made a focused effort to develop exclusive products for stores, creating gift items, devotionals and CDs that add margin for stores and value for customers," says Parable CEO Steve Potratz. "Parable has always been passionate about new ideas, and we believe this new book deal will play an important part in helping stores grow."
Parable has been developing its exclusive product line in earnest for the past year and a half. A number of recent exclusives have made the top five of the Parable bestsellers list, including the devotional First Thing Everyday and the Parable exclusive album RE:FRESH - IN THE QUIET PLACE, both number one sellers in Parable member stores.
Parable helps Christian retail ministries succeed by making business better. A hybrid combination of marketing group, franchise and retail services provider, Parable offers Christian retailers a full range of marketing, merchandising and operational services. For more information contact Gary Weyel or visit www.parablegroup.com. The Parable Group is based in San Luis Obispo, Calif.
Outreach, Inc. is the largest provider of outreach products and services in North America, empowering church leaders with cost-effective, proven outreach methods and tools. With six divisions, Outreach serves churches in the areas of marketing products, training, publishing and events, plus web and media services. Find out more about the California-based company at www.outreach.com.
