Latest news from Janet Wilson of Dernier Publishing

Welcome to the
December 2013

Dernier Publishing

newsletter!

Family, food, friends and fun?

It's great to celebrate. Like many other Christians, though, I struggle with the mix of consumerism and faith at Christmas. There's Jesus in the manger versus Santa in his grotto (yes, I took my grandson to the latter). There's our joyful celebrations when brothers and sisters in other parts of the world are having their churches bombed and their services disrupted. Half the world will go hungry while we will stuff our faces until we can't eat any more. For days on end. But I will join in, and be grateful that Christ came. Can you guess what these lovely festive items are in the photo? They're Christmas treats for dogs. You can buy Christmas outfits for your dog, too. Has the world gone mad? No, just desperately seeking something to fill the hole that only God can fill. We need to help them find it. After all, that's why Jesus came.

It's a Wonderful Life!

Remember that old film, 'It's a Wonderful Life' where the hero is shown what would have happened if he hadn't done the good he did for the people of his town? We have been placed where we are for a reason – God has prepared good works for us to do! Christmas is such a wonderful opportunity to reach out to those we love with a gift of a book instead of chocolate (tin of chocs same price as one of our books!) - if you're not sure what to buy, your local Christian bookshop can help you choose the perfect present. Don't let's miss that opportunity – books can change lives! If you can afford it, why not buy Christian books/gifts for all your friends, family and neighbours? You could be the sower of so much blessing, to pass on down the generations . . . awesome! Click here if you'd like to look at our books for children.

Is it Santa's birthday?

According to a survey conducted for the Children's Society, 14% of 6-12 year-olds think 25th December is Santa's birthday. Want to fight back? How about offering a gift of books for your local school library or local library this Christmas? Check out the latest 'special offers' page on our website for a good deal to help you reach out to the children where you are with the 'message in a story'. Click here to go to Dernier website

Kindle for Christmas?

You can buy 'The Treasure Hunt' and 'Mystery in the Snow' on Amazon. Great if you need a story for your 8-11s in a hurry – ready to read in just five minutes – perfect for a wet, grey day in the holidays! Also great for reluctant readers who think it's fun to read on something digital, or for those with less than perfect eyesight – you can increase the size of the font :-)

Books for children in Kenya

Thank you to those of you who have bought books for children in Kisumu in Kenya. It's not too late to buy a book; all donated books will be taken over to the children in the spring. Let me know if you would like to join in the blessing!

Also, I have been talking to a lady who works for a Christian charity that reaches out to prisoners in this country. Did you know that there are around 200,000 children in England and Wales with a parent in prison? 7% (around 1 in 15) children will experience their father’s imprisonment before they leave school. This charity helps prisoners send presents to their children (including a Christian book if the parent would like this) – you can read all about it here: Angel Tree Wouldn't it be great if we were able to help supply books for these children, to share the 'message in a story' with them, and help their relationship with their parent? Please pray as we consider how we can best help. If you have any ideas, please don't hesitate to contact me!

Sharing the wealth :-)

Here is a book review we received recently of 'Under the Tamarind Tree', with many thanks to all of you who pray. “My name is Annie*, I’m 11 years old, and I’m a missionary kid in Central Africa (in Cameroon). I’ve lived in Africa for 8 years. I’m home-schooled and I like to do art.

I like “Under the Tamarind Tree” because I find it interesting reading about a boy who’s just become a missionary kid. The book is set in Rwanda and I lived in Rwanda for 5 years. I can relate to a lot of what the book is about. Mary Weeks Millard describes life in Rwanda so well that it makes me feel like I’m back there.

“Under the Tamarind Tree’’ is exciting and interesting. It really gives you a feel for what it’s like for kids who have left their home country to serve God where people need Him.

I think this book is good for both boys and girls, aged 12 and under. When I read it, it makes me forget my worries and problems because I get into the book so much. The book isn’t just for missionary kids – anyone would enjoy it.” *Name changed

If your church supports missionaries with children, how about sending them a parcel of exciting Christian stories? 

Well I was hoping to fit in some more reviews, and news of the Christian Parenting Challenge, but I've run out of room! I'll try to fit in another newsletter between now and Christmas :-)

May you have a wonderful time of Advent, and may you sow many seeds!

   

With grateful thanks as always,

Janet

P.S. If you need any help choosing a book or a selection of books, please do ask :-)

October Newsletter

Welcome to the October 2011

Dernier Publishing

newsletter!

Acorns in the park

It's that time of year! Under the oak trees in my local park, the ground is littered with acorns. Some fall on the path and get squashed by dog-walkers like me, some are eaten by squirrels, some might take root then get mown down – some will grow into beautiful oak trees! What a wonderful encouragement to make the most of every opportunity to share the good news – who knows what may grow from one small seed?

 

Ultimate Christian Library Book Award 2012

We have nominated our five most recent books for this prestigious award, which is so exciting! We will of course keep you in touch with how we get on, because if the judges shortlist any of our books (which would be wonderful!), we will need you to vote! For more info about the awards follow this link: http://www.christianbookawards.org/

Our first ever proper catalogues!

Would anybody like any of our autumn/winter catalogues? We have taken the big step of producing 8-page A5 glossy brochures as we now have eleven books to promote :-) We are delighted with them! Could you pass some on to your church family, Sunday School parents, teachers at your local school or just pass some around to friends and family? Young people need to hear the good news - our books can help in reaching out to the ones you love :-) Email me at info@dernierpublishing.com and I will get those sent off to you, free of charge of course. 

Latest gossip!

A Christian bookshop in Epsom has chosen 'Beech Bank Girls, Christmas is Coming!' as children's book of the month for October! If you have read it, you can give it a star rating on the website - just click on the link: www.dovecotebookshop.co.uk Do support Christian bookshops if you can.

 

Mary Weeks Millard (right) has heard that Dorset library service are considering adding her children's books to their list - please pray that they do!

Mary will be visiting Rwanda from October 25 to November 15^th. Please pray for her, for safety in travel, good health and for the Lord's blessing wherever she goes.

 

Last posting dates for Christmas, international surface mail

If you need (want?!) to send presents to relatives/friends abroad, here are the remaining last posting dates for international surface mail (Last dates for some destinations have already gone): Tue 18th October: South Africa, Hong Kong, Singapore, the USA and Canada Tue 8th November: Eastern Europe, Greece, Cyprus, Turkey, Malta and Iceland Tue 22nd November: Western Europe. How about sending a good book to encourage and inspire your young people in their faith? Get in there quick as it's quite a bit cheaper now than sending airmail!

Poster for Halloween

Halloween is fast approaching. We have a poster with a great message; might you be able to use one or more at home, in church or school? They would also make perfect gifts for alternative 'Praise parties'! Price: £3.99 Size: 16"x20". Gloss 130gsm card. SPECIAL OFFER TO E-NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIBERS – First poster £3.99, EVERY POSTER AFTER THAT ONLY 99p, as many as you like! If you would like to subscribe to the e-newsletter and take advantage of this offer, email me on info@dernierpublishing.com and I will send your posters to you, POST FREE, with an invoice! Check out our other posters on www.dernierpublishing.com

 

Books Change Lives

I received a most encouraging email from a lady whose church members sponsored books for their Sunday School children, many of whom come from a local estate. "It's now several weeks since we presented the books to our children. This morning I asked how they were getting on with them. They were very enthusiastic and have been swapping them round when they've finished their own. Most of these kids are reluctant readers, too. One girl, non-Christian family, no support or interest at home, very violent background, told me her grandma had read her book, 'I want to be an airline pilot', and wanted to know where she could buy some of the others." The Lord is using our books to touch people's lives, which is awesome. Be a part of it, sow some seeds! (Picture posed by model)

Phew! I think that's all for now – remember, a book at £5.99 is the same cost as coffee and cake in a High Street café, less than half the price of a DVD and a fraction of the price of many computer games (e.g. 1/5 of £29.99). What great value! :-)

With love to you all,

Janet

P.S. We have 11 books now and there are about 10 weeks left until Christmas, so last week I thought it would be fun to begin featuring one book a week on our facebook page . . to help you keep count of the book-shopping weeks until Christmas, hehe :-) https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dernier-Publishing/173040439575

Advance Information for Booksellers

Please find below the 'Advance Information' sheet we will be sending to Booksellers. Well, kind of - I've discovered that cutting and pasting documents isn't as simple as it looks for the images! Still, all the information is there . . . If you are bookseller and you do not receive information from us, please contact us with your address and we will be delighted to add you to our mailing!

Thank you all for your support :-)

Advance Information: Release date: 1^st October 2011

Living in Hope

A delightful, inspiring story by Mary Weeks Millard, set in rural Rwanda (sequel to I Want To Be An Airline Pilot). Shema can now go to school and his dream of becoming an airline pilot has moved one step closer - but he and his family and friends still have many exciting and dangerous challenges to face in the Village of Hope; will their faith triumph?

“Everybody should read this book, because it is amazing, fun, very emotional, and you will learn so many things about how children cope living in Rwanda.” - Matthew 

For 8-11s / Price: £5.99 /

ISBN 9780956904300

Beech Bank Girls III

Christmas is Coming!

The third in the brilliant Beech Bank Girls series by Eleanor Watkins

Along with the excitement of Christmas, life holds its challenges for the Beech Bank Girls. Family, friendship and faith issues – the friends face them all together!

“This story shows that God is an amazing father who really cares for us and our problems, no matter how big or small they are. A definite 10/10.” - Ellie

Chick lit for 10-14s / Price: £5.99 / ISBN 9780956904317

Beech Bank Girls, Every Girl Has a Story. This book was shortlisted for the Christian Resources Awards 2011, Book of the Year, Children over 12 category.

Beech Bank Girls II, Making a Difference

Distribution information:

Kingsway Communications:

T: 0800 8409560, E: tradeorders@kingsway.co.uk

Gazelle Book Services:

T: 01323 521777, F: 01323 521666, E: sales@gardners.com www.dernierpublishing.com

Dernier Publishing Books for 8-11s

Here are all our current titles for 8-11s, to encourage and inspire these precious children in their faith and show non-church kids what they are missing :-)  We are passionate about our books and the difference they can make in children's lives. Think how you have been influenced by something you have read . . . our children so badly need to read books that will influence them for good.

To help you choose, follow the links below each book to read the first chapters online. All our books are available from your local Christian bookshop or to order from our website if you don't have a bookshop near you!

Deepest Darkness by Denise Hayward

Ten-year-old Abi suffers from terrible nightmares and her life is ruled by fear. On holiday in Canada, she makes a new friend who shows her that true light shines, even if the deepest darkness. Facing her fears one by one, Abi opens up her life to the light and finds a freedom that she never thought possible. A gripping, sensitive story with action in the Canadian rainforest, including meeting a bear at night! Perfect to give to any child  you know who suffers from fear - or indeed for any 8-11-year-old who enjoys curling up with a good book.

Some reviews: 
“This is a brilliant story all about a girl called Abi. She's got a fear of everything, but a trip to Canada brings a new friend and some important answers. This is one of the best books I've read – EVER!” - Maddie

“It is a fantastic adventure and God is really real.” - Natalie

“I enjoyed the story very much. I felt for Abi and all the characters, and was really excited while reading the book.” - Polina

ISBN 978 0 9536963 5 2 / £5.99

http://www.dernierpublishing.com/deepestdarkness.php 

The Birthday Shoes by Mary Weeks Millard

All Emily Jane wants for her birthday is a pair of fashionable boots, but instead she is given old-fashioned, fake crocodile-skin shoes. Alone in her bedroom, Emily Jane tries on the hated shoes. She hopes they might not fit, but discovers instead that they hold an amazing secret! Join her as she goes on a series of adventures, making friends and some exciting discoveries about God along the way.

This is currently one of our best selling books and it really is a fun story, but with an important message woven in. Emily Jane comes from a Christian home, but discovers that she needs to make a commitment to follow Jesus for herself. If you know girls who know all the Bible stories, this could be just the ideal gift. Equally, those with no church background would find out what it really means to be a Christian.

Some reviews: 

“My favourite part was when Emily Jane put on her shoes for the first time and ended up in Africa. It made me feel like I was there!” - Susanna

“A very interesting story. It shows how if you ask God for something then he will answer.” - Rebekkah

“I really liked the parts when Emily Jane puts on her shoes and goes to different places in Africa. I liked these parts because it felt really magical!” - Bethany

http://www.dernierpublishing.com/birthdayshoes.php
ISBN 9780 9536963 8 3 / £5.99

 

I Want to Be an Airline Pilot by Mary Weeks Millard

Shema, an eight-year-old Rwandan goatherd from a child-led family, has many adventures, including a goat eating his only T-shirt, a frightening visit to a medicine man and a dangerously close brush with a spitting black cobra! Through them all, little by little, Shema learns about “Mister God” and discovers that although he is an orphan, he has a Father in heaven who cares for him. A victorious, heart-warming story, with lovely background to life in rural Rwanda.

We have had some amazing responses from both children and adults who have read this book - it really is an exciting and touching story. The sequel, Living in Hope, is due for release very soon and is every bit as good!

Some reviews: 

“A thrilling adventure story about three orphans' dreams coming true when their prayers were answered.” - Jonathan

“I give this book 10/10.” - Ellie

“I think this book is very good, it made me feel happy, sad and really excited; I think the most interesting part is when Shema killed the black cobra. It was also very moving when in the book Ishimwe starts to cry because her parents died. I really enjoyed this book, it is one of my favourites.” - Kemi

ISBN 978 0 9536963 6 9 / £5.99

 

http://www.dernierpublishing.com/airlinepilot.php

 

Living in Hope by Mary Weeks Millard 

 

Please find more information about this sequel to I Want to Be an Airline Pilot in an earlier blog, entitled "Books for autumn release".  It is another really inspiring and encouraging story from Mary! Both of these books can be enjoyed by church or non-church kids, but one thing they have in common is the theme of triumph over adversity, of God caring for children in need, so if you were looking for a book for a child from a broken home, these might just fit the bill. Read the first chapter of Living in Hope here:

http://www.dernierpublishing.com/coming_soon.php

The Treasure Hunt by J.M. Evans. 

For 8-11-year-old boys and girls.

Ravi, Debbie, Joel and Lance's first exciting mystery adventure. Who is in the back of the white lorry and why are they there? Prayer, faith and their Bible knowledge all help, but when the case takes an unexpected turn, the friends also need to be courageous and obedient. Will they find out what is going on and find the real treasure?

'The best book I've ever read!' - Emily 'Brilliant!' - Ben

'I really like The Treasure Hunt because I enjoy mystery books but mystery books that are still to do with God and Christians. I like the characters and how they often pray in some of the chapters.' - Emma

ISBN 9780953696314 94pp £4.99

http://www.dernierpublishing.com/treasurehunt.php

These two mystery adventure stories feature four young friends from a church youth club, who discover that God does use children as well as adults. They also learn the importance of prayer and obedience, and the relevance of the Bible today. Fun, cringe-free stories that show that it's great to be a Christian!

Mystery in the Snow by J.M. Evans

Not long after solving their first mystery (The Treasure Hunt), Ravi, Debbie, Lance and Joel find themselves with another problem; Ravi's shed has been burgled. Can they find out who did it? The plot thickens as an old lady's handbag goes missing, then a cat disappears. Can all these things be connected? Join the Christian friends as they find answers in unexpected places.

Some reviews: 

“I loved reading Mystery in the Snow. I especially liked it when they kept finding more and more evidence. It was so exciting that I couldn’t put it down! It’s one of my favourite books ever. I think it’s good because it shows you that when you pray to God amazing things can happen and that we can pray any time, anywhere and in any situation.” - Lydia

“I would definitely recommend it.” - Joshua

“I like mystery and Christian books and found this one very exciting, adventurous and mysterious.” - Emma

ISBN 978 0 9536963 3 8 / £5.99

http://www.dernierpublishing.com/mysteryinthesnow.php

Books for autumn release

Books for Autumn release

The front covers of our two new books which are due for release in October have now been finalised – here they are . . . we are delighted with them! Please do pray that many children will enjoy these books and be encouraged and inspired.

Here's a bit about the Beech Bank Girls III, from the cover:

“Christmas is coming! Along with the excitement, life holds its challenges for the Beech Bank Girls. Holly faces the reality of financial crisis at home; Rachel is worried about her sister; a sledging incident shakes the girls - and a very different nativity play brings home the true meaning of Christmas. Family, friendship and faith issues – the Beech Bank Girls face them together in this, their third exciting book. Chick lit for 10-14s.”

We have been delighted with positive reviews from young readers – here's one:

“An amazing, heart warming story about six normal girls who go through every-day situations, but at the end of the day they realise that the best solution is to turn to God. This story shows that God is an amazing father who really cares for us and our problems, no matter how big or small they are. A definite 10/10.” - Ellie

And a bit about Living in Hope:

“Shema can now go to school and his dream of becoming an airline pilot has moved one step closer - but he and his family and friends still have many exciting and dangerous challenges to face in the Village of Hope. Frida is tricked into leaving her brother and sister, Sam is falsely accused of stealing, a football match has an uncertain ending; will their faith triumph? The thrilling sequel to I Want to Be an Airline Pilot, set in rural Rwanda.” For 8-11s. Here are some reviews:

“This is the best book I have ever read, and I would recommend it to anyone.” - Sophie “Everybody should read this book, because it is amazing, fun, very emotional, and you will learn so many things about how children cope living in Rwanda.” - Matthew “This story is about friends who live in the Village of Hope in Rwanda after the Rwandan genocide. It shows that God will intervene whenever you ask and will change you for ever and ever. It's a brilliant, riveting story.” - Reuben

We didn't pay the children for these reviews! :-)

They really are both excellent stories!

We have had a surprising number of things going wrong with the production of these two books - the proofs were made up with the wrong typeface so had to be re-done. The new proofs were then lost in the post - Special Delivery (guaranteed next day delivery before 1pm) eventually arrived eight days late - all of these things making us behind in our schedule. Several people lost their internet connection for a while during all this, making communication difficult, and I was on holiday! To top all this, Eleanor Watkins, author of the Beech Bank Girls series, has been quite unwell. I feel the Lord is going to use these two new books (and all our others!) and perhaps this is opposition – please do keep praying for everyone involved. Thank you!