Since its explosion in the late 20th century, the Christian book market has witnessed a wide range of Bible products as demand continued to increase.

As a religious book retailer, you're often faced with a variety of buyers who are searching amid a wide array of diverse products. For instance, when a shopper walks into your bookstore with little or no Catholic knowledge and wants to buy a Catholic Bible as a gift, how do you determine which to offer?

Your role as the "religious book expert" is to identify the gift recipient's needs prior to making your recommendations. There are a number of different types of Catholic Bibles available depending on the gift recipient's age, need or specific event. From medium- to large-print to pocket guide Bibles, the offerings are endless.

Listed below are demographics along with suggested Catholic Bible resources:

Adults: The New American Bible (NAB) is the version most often used at mass. It accurately translates the original text into modern English. Family Bible editions are also widely available.

Adults may also enjoy a Bible study book that focuses on a topic of interest such as how to's, prayer, the saints, the rosary and more.

For adults entering the Catholic faith, a Catholic Answer Bible including the official NAB translation and information about Catholic beliefs and practices, with their foundations in Scripture, might be helpful.

Teens: Young readers will enjoy an NAB Bible that includes prayers, faith basics and extras tailored specifically to them. Areas of interest could also include confirmation and the saints.

Children: There are a wide variety of age-appropriate Catholic children's Bibles, including editions for first communion, Lent, Easter, Advent, Bible stories and the sacraments. Be sure to recommend titles with friendly illustrations and explanations.

Your product knowledge and keen selling abilities lend credibility as a solid and reliable religious book retailer. The more you learn about your products, the better prepared you are in delivering the ideal customer experience in meeting their needs.

Laurie Perolio-Bullinger is direct marketing manager for Our Sunday Visitor, a Catholic publisher of periodicals, books, curriculum, tapes, software and educational materials. www.osv.com.

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