First Editorial Review

I was excited this weekend to discover a well-crafted endorsement for "The Unmaking of a Part Time Christian" at Amazon.com. The words come from Eva Stimson, Editor of Presbyterians Today. Stimson's publication is a perennial award-winner, and positive words from her desk always ring true. Here it is:

• Editorial Reviews: With the skill of a gifted storyteller, Derek Maul weaves his own life experiences into a practical and engaging guidebook for Christians seeking a deeper level of commitment. Scripture, prayers and questions for reflection in each chapter reinforce the author s challenge to live as if you mean it. --Eva Stimson Editor, Presbyterians Today
  

Final Edit Underway

This week I'm completing the final edit of the galley for "The Unmaking of a Part Time Christian". We've also picked up (potentially) a couple of key endorsements - but I can't divulge any details until something comes through in writing.

Then I've been invited to teach a class on the book at Soulfeast, the annual spiritual formation conference sponsored by The Upper Room. The setting is Lake Junaluska in Maggie Valley, North Carolina. I'm looking forward to talking about what it means to be a Jesus-follower and making the critical distinction between part-time and full-time when it comes to being a disciple.

I've had a busy speaking schedule so far this year, and a lot of the content has influenced the direction of this new project. My prayer is that this book will serve as a catalyst for those who are looking to take some serious steps forward in terms of their faith.

Love and blessings - DEREK

Schedule coming together - and COVER revealed!

Well I have the cover design, and the presentation is very inviting. Book title, too, is firm. It's official, now: THE UNMAKING OF A PART TIME CHRISTIAN will be released for publication in September, just a few months away.

Next step is nit-pick detail editing, both in Nashville and the here at my desk. To be honest I really enjoy the editing process; it's one more chance to fine-tune before giving birth.

• "For of his fullness have we all received grace upon grace." (John 1:16)

As always, stay tuned and watch this space.
Love and blessings - DEREK

Happy New Year

Just checking in!

January is under way with news that my new book (the reason for this blog) is in the "design phase" and close to a fabulous cover. We're still looking at a fall release.

I re-read a few chapters over Christmas and - consequently - am more excited about this project than ever before!

Watch this space... keep your eyes on the Pilgrim path... turn your heart toward home.

Love and blessings - DEREK

Merry Christmas!

Just one week until we get to celebrate Christmas Day! Here's my prayer: that we all understand exactly what was at stake when God sent Jesus into this world; that we all accept the gift; that we all live as if the gift really does mean everything; that we turn away from part-time faith and make a new commitment to follow Jesus.

Love and blessings - DEREK

December Update

Nothing new here - except it's December and Advent is upon us! From all accounts my Christmas book "In My Heart I Carry A Star: Stories for Advent" is selling well. There have been some excellent reviews and a lot of enthusiasm has been generated thus far.

The picture - to the left - is the full-page feature about me and my book that ran in the Tampa Tribune this weekend, November 29.

The new project is still in production. Everything is on schedule so far as I can see. Next up is the cover design.

In the mean time, MERRY CHRISTMAS!!! This time of the year is always a riot at our house.

Love and blessings - DEREK

Checking in

Monthly update: November 2008...

Good news regarding the future! I have positive feedback from Upper Room Books, and the new manuscript is moving along toward production. Title is firm, content is pretty much locked in, and the timetable for a fall 2009 release looks good.

Everyone seems jazzed about the interactive element at the end of each chapter, so if all goes well this blog should be buzzing with interest once a couple of people start reading and the conversation gets under way.

Stay tuned; keep praying; follow Jesus; never look back.

Love and blessings - DEREK