As charismatic publishers mark a ruby anniversary this year, they are pointing to the broad impact the movement they serve has had on the Christian products world.

For its significance goes far beyond the special-interest category shelves where such titles have traditionally been placed in bookstores, they say.

Becky Nesbitt, vice president and editor in chief for Howard Books, who acquired world rights for the title, said: "Frank Peretti is a natural storyteller and we're pleased to collaborate with him on delivering this next title to his waiting audience. We believe the book will captivate readers in much the same way as his New York Times best-selling titles This Present Darkness and Piercing the Darkness."

His America's Research Group (ARG) has found a significant upswing in traffic and spending at Christian retail stores in the past quarter-fueled by a trend he said could be capitalized on with some good marketing.

The longtime leader of the retailers group said that a leadership transition committee had been working behind the scenes for the past few years prior to his abrupt October resignation.

One Christian movie executive said in a Facebook posting that the film--which won a best actress Oscar for star Sandra Bullock--had sold 38,000 units since its March 23 release.

Marcus Yoars has replaced J. Lee Grady, who stepped down after 11 years. Yoars, aged 34, takes over after serving as editor of publisher Strang Communications' Ministry Today for three years. Born and raised on the mission field in Hong Kong, he has been in publishing for more than 15 years, including serving as an editor for Thomas Nelson, LifeWay and Focus on the Family.