What new themes are you seeing in gift books, and why?
"I think the themes we are seeing in gift books are those that speak directly to the needs of the heart and soul in terms of hope and less to the needs of our dreams. I think we are seeing this because needs have shifted more to basic survival needs, of hope, of a confident future, reminders that God is in control despite circumstances in our lives, our nation or our world."

How can Christian retail stores encourage sales of gift books?
"By grouping the books in a way that consumers see them quickly, access how they are organized easily and can interpret the need they are focused on clearly."

Do we still see gift books packaged with CDs?
"Not really. With the fast evolution of the Internet, downloads and iPods, the idea of a CD is quickly fading. I've heard of some success with videos still, but even that is shrinking with the advent of more savvy delivery systems."

What's been Thomas Nelson's best-selling gift book to date, and why?
"Max Lucado is our largest-selling author overall, and his books, including his most recent, Fear Not-a collection of his writings on fear, including excerpts from Fearless, and powerful scripture-are consistently great sellers, but a wonderful devotional, Jesus Calling by Sarah Young, has just passed the 500,000 mark, and it shows no sign of slowing-it is very exciting to see how this book continues to impact lives all over the world."

What are one or two of your bigger titles coming out this fall?
"This fall will see a diversity of titles coming out through our Blessing and Truth promotion. Though (I'm) excited about them all, Jesus Lives, the next book from Jesus Calling author Sarah Young, continues to deliver the powerfully intimate daily devotionals that have made her writings so wildly popular. Also, we have a title from Robin McGraw that aims at encouraging families to develop traditions that build memories and establish the holidays as a special and holy time. ... The title offers beautiful photography, touching family memories and wonderful ideas on entertaining as well as practical ideas for managing stress."

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