With an anniversary, a rebirth and a launch, the next year is shaping up to be a major one for the Bible market.

Publishers are preparing big promotional efforts for the events. Thomas Nelson leads the way, this month kicking of a 400-day celebration of the 400th anniversary of the publishing of the King James Version (KJV), in 1611.

The leading publisher of the KJV and copyright holder of the New King James Version (NKJV), the Nashville-based company is releasing special commemorative editions of the KJV-priced from $49.99 to $119.99--and books telling the story of the first English translation of the Scriptures.

In addition, Nelson has partnered with The History Channel Club and Salem Communications to promote the anniversary.

Nelson is not alone in marking the four-century milestone. Holman Bible Publishers (B&H Publishing Group), Hendrickson Publishers, Barbour Publishing, Baker Publishing Group and Oxford University Press, USA all have 400-related editions or titles in their catalogs.

Meanwhile, work on a revision and updating of the New International Version (NIV) is nearing completion, with a March 2011 launch planned for Zondervan's new line.

Next year also sees the arrival of the Common English Bible (CEB) whose translation has been sponsored by five mainline denominations--the Presbyterian Church USA, The Episcopal Church, the United Methodist Church, the Disciples of Christ and the United Church of Christ.

The new translation is being printed and distributed by Abingdon Press and follows interviews with more than 4,000 Bible purchasers. Project director Paul Franklyn said that there had been strong interest in the Christian retail channel in the CEB.

Read the full report in the November issue of Christian Retailing.

• Prev
• Next