TORONTO—Thirty Canadian authors, from six provinces, have joined together to produce a groundbreaking anthology that will be presented to women across Canada this year as part of FaithLife Financial’s Girls Night Out events.

       Hot Apple Cider: Words to Stir the Heart and Warm the Soul is a 296-page collection of personal experience articles, short stories and poems. While there are similarities to the popular Chicken Soup for the Soul series, Hot Apple Cider conveys a uniquely Canadian character and content, with a variety of stories from the lighthearted and humorous to those dealing with serious real-life issues such as the death of a child or spouse, cancer, infertility, loneliness and family conflicts.

        All of the authors included in this book are professional members of The Word Guild, an association of more than 325 Canadians who write from a Christian faith perspective. The authors represent more than 20 Christian denominations.

In an unusual publishing arrangement, the authors will receive royalties from the publisher, That’s Life! Communications, for copies of the book sold through normal retail channels in both Canada and the United States; but the authors donated the money required to print an additional 30,000 copies of the book. The 30,000 books—whose retail value is worth $500,000—are being contributed at no charge to World Vision, a Christian relief, development and advocacy organization.

World Vision will then present Hot Apple Cider as a gift to the women who will attend the 80 Girls Night Out events hosted in communities across Canada. Girls Night Out, which is managed under the planning and guidance of World Vision and its partners, offers women an enjoyable evening of music and inspirational speakers. During the evening, the needs of millions of children affected by the HIV and AIDS pandemic are also presented.

        “We are honoured to begin partnering with The Word Guild,” said Eric Spath, Manager of Artist Associates, Speakers and Events for World Vision Canada, “and we’re thrilled to give every woman attending the Girls Night Out events such a beautiful and powerful book.”

        Hot Apple Cider was edited by The Word Guild founders N. J. Lindquist and Wendy Elaine Nelles. The idea for Hot Apple Cider originated with Lindquist, an award-wining author who has sponsored a number of children through World Vision over a 30-year period. “We had been thinking about producing an anthology for some time,” said Lindquist, “because it’s a great way to introduce readers to a wide variety of writers. Doing it while helping World Vision seemed a perfect fit to me.”

        “It’s hard to believe,” added Lindquist, “but as far as we know, this anthology is the first compilation that highlights Canadian authors who write from a Christian worldview. We’re excited that Hot Apple Cider has the potential to create a whole new level of interest in the work of the writers involved in it, as well as in the work of the other members of The Word Guild.”

        “Readers are telling us that the stories in Hot Apple Cider capture their attention and resonate with them, because they’re about us and our neighbours,” explained Nelles. “They can identify with the writers because they’re like people they know, and their work reflects our Canadian culture, values and experiences.”

Hot Apple Cider will be launched officially on Wednesday June 11, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. at The Canadian Christian Writing Awards Gala, sponsored by The Word Guild, in Mississauga, Ontario.

Retail copies of the book will be available through normal channels in the U.S.A. and Canada.

Click on these links to find out more information about:

•The book Hot Apple Cider and its contributing authors.

•The Word Guild

•World Vision Canada

•Girls Night Out

•FaithLife Financial

•The publisher, That’s Life Communications

Endorsements for Hot Apple Cider

“Inventive and filled with grace, Hot Apple Cider is just what its name implies: an open door, a warm invitation, a friend when needed and least expected, a gentle calling toward a generous life. From the shores of Australia and a woman’s grief, to Romania and a choice we all must make, to the town of Stuckville anywhere in the world and a dozen other settings, in prose and poetry and non-fiction, these stories remind us that God draws us together and speaks to us uniquely and in community. If you’re looking for inspiration, something to breathe in for reassurance that you’re not alone, something to remind you to hear God’s voice in acts of compassion, spend an afternoon with Hot Apple Cider. It could just change your life.”

—Jane Kirkpatrick, award-winning author of All Together in One Place

“Imagine a group of Canadians circled around a campfire. They have two things in common: They’re serious Christians and committed writers. ‘Let me tell you my conversion story,’ calls out Deborah Gyapong. Keith Clemons reads a short story and Brian Austin recites an original poem. Grace Fox shares a devotional piece. As the fire crackles and they sip their cider, all 30 speak from their hearts. That’s the concept of Hot Apple Cider—and it’s a good one.”

—Cecil Murphey, author and co-author of more than 100 books, including Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story and the New York Times bestseller 90 Minutes in Heaven

“In the midst of our often-chilling nightly newscasts, the book Hot Apple Cider offers a tempting and ‘toasty’ reprieve. Filled with stories that will melt your heart, you’ll want to keep it as handy as your favourite throw. This book is a wonderful way to feature the rich giftings of some of Canada’s most talented writers. Let us encourage you to wrap your hands around this cup of creativity and drink in the warming words of these fine authors, many of whom we have been privileged to have as guests on our TV program. Go ahead... pour a cup!”

—Ron and Ann Mainse, hosts of 100 Huntley Street television program

“In Hot Apple Cider, N. J. Lindquist and Wendy Elaine Nelles have assembled a vibrant compilation showcasing a diversity of styles and subjects. But what makes this such an appealing collection is the unique harmony of voices who are joined together by their individual—yet interconnected— journeys of faith. It’s perfect reading for those days when we all are struggling with something.”

—Ben Heppner, internationally acclaimed dramatic tenor, opera star and Grammy Award-winning recording artist; Officer of the Order of Canada and recipient of seven honorary doctorate degrees

“Turning the pages of this collection, I have enjoyed reading pages from the lives of many other Canadian story-tellers—old friends, and many new writers. I found here stories that made me smile; stories that raised important questions, especially about the nature of prayer; and stories that challenged and sobered me. God is not explained or defended in these stories—but the experienced presence of ‘Someone with us’ is the common ground from which they spring. This is a book to sample, to savour and to share.”

—Maxine Hancock, PhD, author and speaker; Professor of Interdisciplinary Studies & Spiritual Theology, Regent College

“Much in the tradition of Chicken Soup for the Soul, these delightful readings are like a cozy cup of hot cider. Settle in for a moment of warmth and reflection. You will find Hot Apple Cider to be exactly what it promises. Enjoy!”

—Brian C. Stiller, President, Tyndale University College & Seminary

“One always appreciates a positive and encouraging word. Hot Apple Cider not only provides this, but does so in the format of real people sharing real experiences. I personally find that very helpful.”

—Thomas S. Caldwell, Founder and Chairman of Caldwell Financial Ltd., known as one of the world’s foremost investors in securities exchanges around the world; Member of the Order of Canada

“These are heart-warming accounts of everyday lives infiltrated by an anytime God. For the reader, these stories bring home the mysterious—yet practical—relationship available with One who is always close at hand. We are artfully reminded that hardship dispels the illusion of independence from God, and how He never fails to sustain us amidst suffering.”

—Sally Start, National Director, Alpha Ministries Canada

“Every person has a story and I have learned so much from listening over the years. I now take more personal time to read, reflect and meditate. Hot Apple Cider is perfect for those quiet moments to slow down, to gain insight and to be refreshed. I often found myself smiling!”

—Paul Henderson, Director, LeaderImpact group; former NHL and Team Canada hockey player

“Thoroughly enjoyable! Hot Apple Cider is a literary banquet table enticing the reader to explore, taste and ponder a diverse sampling of passions, experiences, intriguing personalities and life lessons. The compelling flavour is Canadian—a unique blend of personal history, culture and faith values. May this be the first of many compilations celebrating Canadian Christian writers.”

—Margaret Gibb, President, Women Alive

“Whether you sip Hot Apple Cider slowly, one story at a time, or drink deeply and read it all in one sitting, these stories of fun, faith and fellowship by gifted Canadian writers will warm your heart.”

—Dave Toycen, President and CEO, World Vision Canada

“Hot Apple Cider is a fantastic read. Thirty Canadian authors fill the pages of this book with their unique insights and experiences. Although each author’s contribution is different and distinct—reflecting our diverse nation—the book flows from one story into the next. All the writers share a bountiful supply of rich testimonies of a loving God's faithfulness and sufficiency. I’m thrilled that, finally, we all can be blessed by an anthology that depicts the voices of Canadians!”

—Johanne Robertson, Publisher, Maranatha News

“Hot Apple Cider is a wonderful collection of stories of divine appointments, the awesomeness of God, and comfort in times of grief. Throughout my reading of these captivating short stories, I was compelled to reflect on my own life, my experiences, and my relationships with God, my family and others. This is an amazing book of encouragement. I loved it!”

—Marlene O'Neill, multi-award-winning Christian vocalist

30,000 copies of book will be given

to women across Canada