Writing a Book

Several months ago I alluded to an ongoing project that partially accounted for my infrequent posts on this blog. As of today, I'm ready to go public with this project: I'm writing a book.

Today I signed a contract with Shepherd Press who will be publishing Christ Formed in You: The Grace and Beauty of Spiritual Transformation (tentative sub-title). The manuscript is about 60% complete - the goal is to have it done sometime this fall.

Needless to say, I'm very excited! This is a life long dream come true. I've wanted to write a book since my teen years (maybe before). This particular book has been in the making for several years. It originated in a series of sermons in 2004, but the content has expanded and taken on a new shape in the past six months.

I honestly wasn't planning to write and publish a book any time soon, but six or seven months ago I asked the Lord to open the door to do so if he wanted it to happen sooner. In February, while attending the Desiring God Pastor's Conference, Shepherd Press announced their interest in talking to new authors. I stopped by their table, shared my idea of a book with them, and they graciously agreed to enter into a dialogue with me. Now, it's official.

I will share more in the future. In the meantime, I'd appreciate your prayers as this book continues to take shape.

15 comments:

Anna said...

I am SOOOO proud of you! I'm glad the writing is going so well.

lisatatj said...

!WOW!!! that is soooo exciting...I am so happy for you! What a BIG deal! Praise the Lord for the wonderful opportunity!

CityStreams said...

Congratulations! We want to buy an autographed copy when it comes out. Yay!

John said...

I'm really excited, but I had a strong feeling that was what you were doing when you mentioned the "ongoing project."

May the Lord bless your book. I can't wait to get one!

Amanda said...

Awesome!

So... do your congregants get a free copy when it's published? :D

Brian G. Hedges said...

Citystreams - you won't have to buy one! I'll give a copy to everyone in the immediate family.

Amanda - not sure about your question, but it's a good possibility. I'm also planning to do some freebies off the blog for people who will read, review, and blog on the book

Anna said...

would that be sort of like a blog tour then? jc, because I'm doing a blog tour this summer for a new YA fantasy book. :D It is going to be awesome!

andrew said...

Congrats, Brian! Looking forward to reading it once it's finished.

Tim said...

Congrats, bro. This is one of "those books" I will want to finish :)

Anonymous said...

Whoohooo! The news is finally out! I can't wait to read it!

David McKay said...

Looking forward to your book, Brian.
Interested in publicising it in Australia? I write reviews for Southern Cross magazine/Sydney Anglicans online [but please don't accuse me of being an Anglican.]

Brian G. Hedges said...

Hi David - some publicity in Aussie country would be great! I'd be happy to send you a free review copy when it gets published - thanks for offering.

Anonymous said...

I'll read, review and blog if you wish. Congrats!

Bethany said...

Congratulations! That is very exciting. I'm looking forward to reading it!

Anonymous said...

Congrats brother to a dream come true. I hope its meaty my dear friend. I will pre-order it. Just let me know when