Spring/Summer Religion Books

Compiled by Robert Dahlin and Charles Hix -- Publishers Weekly, 2/18/2002

ABINGDON PRESS
Leading Beyond the Walls (Mar., $22) by Adam Hamilton tells how congregations can become vibrant centers of outreach.

Standing in the Circle of Grief (May, $13 paper) by Blair Gilmer. Prayers and liturgies relate to grief in particular circumstances.

ADAMS MEDIA
Small Miracles for the Jewish Heart: Extraordinary Coincidences from Yesterday and Today (Aug., $9.95 paper) by Yitta Halberstam and Judith Leventhal is the fifth entry in the Small Miracles series.

ALBAN INSTITUTE
Serving God with Style: Unleashing Servant Potential (May, $18 paper) by Ronald C. Williams transforms faith into a productive ministry.

Ministry and Money: A Guide for Clergy and Their Friends (May, $16 paper) by Don Hotchkiss develops a sound theology of money and skills for church administration.

ANTHROPOSOPHIC PRESS
Broken Vessels: The Spiritual Structure of Human Frailty (Apr., $18.95 paper) by Rudolf Steiner delves into inner dimensions of health and illness.

Spiritualism, Madame Blavatsky and Theosophy: An Eyewitness View of Occult History (May, $19.95 paper) by Rudolf Steiner depicts the woman who foreshadowed New Age thought.

The Last Barrier: A Journey to the Essence of Sufi Teachings (May, $14.95 paper) by Reshad Field is an expanded 25th-anniversary edition. A Lindisfarne book.

AVE MARIA PRESS
The Celtic Soul Friend: A Trusted Guide for Today (Mar., $15.95 paper) by Edward C. Sellner crosses denominational and ethnic boundaries for contemporary Christians.

A Cup of Grace... to Go: What Jesus Might Say to Start Your Day (Mar., $8.95 paper) by Anita M. Constance gets the morning off on the right foot.

BAKER ACADEMIC
The Life of the Mind: A Christian Perspective (Mar., $10.99 paper) by Clifford Williams asserts that intellectual activity is of value to both the individual and the church.

BAKER BOOKS
1001 Surprising Things You Should Know About Christianity (Mar., $12.99 paper) by Jerry MacGregor and Marie Prys reveals little-known facts and more fully explains familiar aspects.

Faith That Goes the Distance: Living an Extraordinary Life (June, $10.99 paper) by Jud Wilhite shows how the faith of such biblical heroes as Noah, Moses and Abraham inspires.

I Am with You Always: Experiencing the Fullness of God in the Church (July, $18.99) by Chip Ingram expands on Psalms to show a God who has always been a shelter.

BEACON PRESS
The Flowering of the Soul: A Book of Prayers for Women (Apr., $15 paper), edited by Lucinda Vardey, collects 1,000 prayers from ancient to present times.

The Journey Home: Discovering the Deep Spiritual Wisdom of the Jewish Tradition (Aug., $25) by Rabbi Lawrence A. Hoffman explores the Jewish relationship to God and to questions of human purpose.

BERKLEY
Seeing God: Ten Life-Changing Lessons of the Kabbalah (Mar., $12 paper) by Rabbi David Aaron ushers God into our lives.

We Don't Die: George Anderson's Conversations with the Other Side (Aug., $13 paper) by Joel Martin and Patricia Romanowski focuses on the afterlife experience.

The Heavenly Fugitive (Mar., $11.99 paper) by Gilbert Morris. God tries to get the attention of a couple in New York during the Roaring Twenties.

BIBLIO PRESS
The Thinking Jewish Women's Voice (Mar., $9.25 paper), edited by Doris B. Gold, reflects on politics, arts, history, literature and finance from a female, Jewish perspective.

Surviving Terror: Hope and Justice in a World of Violence (Mar., $19.99 paper), edited by Victoria Erickson and Michelle Lim Jones, collects the thoughts of contemporary theologians.

Going Public: Christian Responsibility in a Divided America (Apr., $18.99 paper) by Lawrence E. Adams encourages the church to cultivate a common public ethic.

Becoming Friends: Worship, Justice and the Practice of Christian Friendship (July, $14.99 paper) by Paul Wadell probes the nature and importance of true friendship.

BROADMAN & HOLMAN
After the Locusts (Mar., $10.99 paper) by Jan Coleman. For those experiencing loss, the example of Joel shows that God is also the source of restoration.

Milestones: 50 Events of the 20th Century that Shaped the Evangelicals in America (June, $19.99) by Steve Rabey and Monte Unger includes Prohibition, the Holocaust and Promise Keepers.

Jesus the One and Only (Aug., $19.99) by Beth Moore adds new insights into Christ's life.

CAMBRIDGE UNIV. PRESS
The Cambridge Illustrated History of Religions (Mar., $40), edited by John Bowker. Academic experts survey a host of world beliefs from prehistory to contemporary times.

CAREER PRESS/NEW PAGE BOOKS
A Witch's Guide to Ghosts and the Supernatural (August, $14.99) by Gerina Dunwich chronicles the author's experiences with ghostly encounters and includes spells and rituals to conjure or banish spirits of the dead.

Secrets of the Ancient Incas (May, $13.99) by Michael Peter Langevin incorporates the teachings, traditions, magic, and mystery of the Incas into everyday modern life.

The Practical Pagan: Common Sense Guidelines for Modern Practitioners (May, $13.99) by Dana D. Eilers offers suggestions on meaning, myths, choices, and education.

CATHOLIC BOOK/RESURRECTION PRESS
Grace Notes: Embracing the Joy of Christ in a Broken World (Apr., $9.95) by Lorraine V. Murray nurtures a receptivity to divine interventions.

CHALICE PRESS
Strike Terror No More: Theology, Ethics and the New War (Mar., $24.99 paper), edited by Jon L. Berquist, discusses the implications of the U.S. war on terrorism.

How to Be an Open-Minded Christian Without Losing Your Faith (Apr., $16.99 paper) by Jan G. Linn discerns the beliefs at the heart of the gospel.

Let My Prayer Rise to God: A Spirituality for Praying the Psalms (May, $18.99 paper) by William O. Paulsell helps the reader identify with the Psalter and its tradition of prayer.

CHOSEN BOOKS
The Healing Touch: A Guide to Healing Prayer for Yourself and Those You Love (Mar., $12.99 paper) by Norma Dearing. Individuals recount how they quelled physical illnesses arising from unholy unions, addictions and generational influences.

An Appointment with the King: Ideas for Jump-Starting Your Devotional Life (May, $10.99 paper) by Joel Comiskey takes a cross-denominational approach for deepening intimacy with God.

Transformed for Life: How to Know God Better and Love Him More (July, $12.99 paper) by Derek Prince combines six popular books on biblical teachings.

COLUMBIA UNIV. PRESS
Saracens: Islam in the Medieval European Imagination (June; $52.50, paper $22.50) by John V. Tolan studies Christianity's polemical responses to Islam.

Protestantism in America (July, $35) by Randall Balmer and Lauren F. Winner is the latest in the Columbia Contemporary Religion series.

After Christianity (July, $24.50) by Gianni Vattimo. The European philosopher contemplates the future of religion in the postmodern world.

Torn at the Roots: Jewish Liberalism in Crisis (Aug., $29.50) by Michael E. Staub traces the ideological split in the Jewish community and its consequences on Jewish identity.

CONCORDIA
What to Say: 52 Ways to Show Christian Sympathy to a Grieving Person (Aug., $8.99) by Carol Ebeling suggests specific words and actions to take under different conditions of grief.

CONTINUUM
Popes and Politics: Reform, Resentment and the Holocaust (Mar., $24.95) by Justus George Lawler charges that many who write about the Vatican distort facts.

Clerical Error: A True Story (Apr., $28.95) by Robert Blair Kaiser. The correspondent at Vatican II reveals that a leading priest seduced his wife.

The Book of Saints (Apr., $50), edited by Basil Watkins, is a seventh edition of this dictionary of saints.

Women in Christianity (Apr., $28.95 paper) by Hans Küng examines historical women and points out past scandals.

COOK COMMUNICATIONS
The Top Ten Ways to Love Your Wife (Mar., $12.99 paper) by Hans and Donna Finzel challenges men to turn missteps into deeds that say, "I love you."

When Life Makes You Nervous: New and Effective Treatment for Anxiety (Mar., $14.99 paper) by David B. Hawkins alleviates feelings of isolation.

Slices of Life: Unexpected Blessings from Everyday Life (Apr., $10.99 paper) by Ellie Lofaro enables women to find God's wonders.

COUNCIL OAK
Blessings of Guadalupe (Apr., $14) by Eryk Hanut. Color photos accompany traditional tales of the Virgin of Guadalupe.

Hope for a Woman's Heart (Apr., $14.99) by Kathy Troccoli. The Christian artist writes from experience.

Safe in the Shepherd's Arms (May, $10.99) by Max Lucado finds security in the 23rd Psalm.

Bedside Blessing (May, $13.99) by Charles R. Swindoll contains devotionals to end a busy day.

CROSSROAD PUBLISHING
The Jesus Meditations: Living Life to the Fullest (Apr., $22.95 paper) by Michael Kennedy, S.J. Visualization and an accompanying CD read by Martin Sheen refresh the reader's prayer life.

A Daring Promise: A Spirituality of Christian Marriage (Apr., $16.95 paper) by Richard R. Gaillardetz maintains that loving a spouse is the equivalent of loving God.

Restoring Your Self: Five Ways to a Healthier, Happier and Creative Life (Apr., $16.95 paper) by Peter Kalellis points the way from saturated existence to sacred reality.

The Practice of Prayer for Others (June, $19.95) by Birrell Walsh draws on many religious traditions to get back to basics.

CROSSWAY BOOKS
Building Strong Families (Mar., $12.99 paper), edited by Dennis Rainey, collects 14 essays on restoring family foundations in a godly way.

The Misery of Job and the Mercy of God (Apr., $16.99) by John Piper, with photos by Ric Ergenbright, reminds readers of God's sovereignty.

You Are Special (Apr., $9.99) by Max Lucado, illus. by Sergio Martinez. This gift edition relates Punchinello's timeless lesson that he is special despite his flaws.

CUMBERLAND HOUSE
The Last Days of Messiah (Mar., $12.95 paper), edited by Gary Wharton, weaves together Scriptures to retell Christ's final days.

Home Is Where You Hang Your Heart (Apr., $9.95) by Cynthia Culp Allen is a devotional for the hectic homemaker.

Life in a Blender (May, $9.95) by Mimi Varberg targets both blended and foster families.

DOUBLEDAY
Familiar Strangers: Finding Wisdom in the Real World (May, $22.95) by Gotham Chopra seeks answers for such questions as "Why am I here?" and "What is my purpose?"

The Faith: A History of Christianity (May, $40) by Brian Moynahan identifies watershed events and people over the course of 2,000 years.

The New Jerusalem Bible: Saints Devotional Edition (June, $35) by Bert Ghezzi integrates writings from the saints throughout the text.

Conclave: The Politics, Personalities and Process of the Next Papal Election (July, $12.95 paper) by John L. Allen Jr. looks ahead to the selection of John Paul II's successor.

WM. B. EERDMANS
Soul Searchers: An Anthology of Spiritual Journeys (Mar., $25), compiled by Teresa de Bertodano, presents inspiring stories about Abraham, Joan of Arc, Maya Angelou and others.

The War on Terrorism and the Terror of God (Mar., $29) by Lee Griffith urges a theology of peace instead of counter-aggression.

Writing in the Dust: After September 11 (Mar., $14) by Rowan Williams reflects on the Archbishop of Wales's firsthand experience of 9/11.

Malay Muslims: The History and Challenge of Resurgent Islam in Southeast Asia (Apr., $20) by Robert Day McAmis is by a missionary who lived among them for over 40 years.

EVANGEL PUBLISHING
The Trinity: An Essential for Faith in Our Time (May, $19.95 paper), edited by Andrew Stirling, examines biblical and philosophical reasons behind Trinity doctrine.

Two Become One: God's Blueprint for Couples (May, $14.95 paper) by Donald M. Joy and Robbie Joy. The Christian counselors challenge the male-dominated model of marriage.

PHILLIP FELDHEIM
The Shul Without a Clock: Second Thoughts from a Rabbi's Notebook (Mar., $24.95) by Rabbi Emmanuel Feldman looks at all facets of Jewish life.

People Speak (Mar., $19.95) by Chaim Walder collects letters and stories of people speaking about their problems with troubled teens, adoption and raising children.

FORTRESS PRESS
The Wrath of Jonah: The Crisis of Religious Nationalism in the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict (Mar., $18 paper) by Rosemary Radford Ruether and Merman J. Ruether reviews religious origins, justifications and complications.

Out of the Depths: Women's Experience of Evil and Salvation (Apr., $20 paper) by Ivone Gebara allows women to voice their own personal sufferings.

In Our Image: Artificial Intelligence and the Human Spirit (May, $16 paper) by Noreen L. Herzfeld defines what it means to be truly human.

David's Truth: In Israel's Imagination and Memory (June, $15 paper) by Walter Brueggemann. Four David narratives reflect particular contexts and social hopes.

Nature, Humanity and God: Paramount Issues in Religion and Science (June, $15 paper) by Ian G. Barbour analyzes the import of evolutionary theory and more.

GIA PUBLICATIONS
Readings in African American Church Music and Worship (Mar., $49.95), compiled and edited by James Abbington, includes essays, articles and unpublished papers written during the 20th century.

HAMPTON ROADS
The Dove in Downward Flight (Mar., $21.95) by Roseanne Farano. A psychotherapist heals herself through helping others.

Unmasking the Rose: A Record of a Kundalini Initiation (July, $14.95 paper) by Dorothy Walters is an intimate journal of a woman's mystical experience at a turning point in her life.

HARRISON HOUSE
Secrets to Exceptional Living (Mar., $19.99) by Joyce Meyer allows the desire for spiritual gifts and the fruit of God's spirit to work together.

The Image of Righteousness (Mar., $19.99) by Creflo A. Dollar Jr. reveals how to live on earth just as Jesus did.

HEALTH COMMUNICATIONS
Peace and Purity: The Story of the Brahma Kumaris, A Spiritual Revolution (Mar., $10.95 paper) by Liz Hodgkinson and Brahma Kumaris recounts the beginnings of this religious order--headed by women--that operates 5,000 centers in 102 countries.

Chicken Soup for the Soul of America: Stories to Heal the Heart of Our Nation (Mar.; $24, paper $12.95) by Jack Canfield et al. celebrates the everyday heroes among us.

Body Revival (May, $12.95 paper) by Victoria Johnson provides a plan for healing the body and the spirit.

HEBREW UNION COLLEGE PRESS
Storm in the Community: Yiddish Polemical Pamphlets of Amsterdam Jewry, 1797-1798 (May, $59.95), selected by Jozeph Michman and Marion Aptroot, recaptures the fractious dialogues between established and breakaway Jewish communities.

HENDRICKSON
Israel and the Church: Two Voices for the Same God (Mar., $19.95 paper) by Jacques Doukhan confronts the received wisdom of Jewish-Christian relations.

Redeeming Time: Modern Wisdom from Ancient Jewish and Christian Festal Calendars (June, $21.95) by Bruce Chilton assesses the philosophical and aesthetic context of our experience of time.

Reading the Lines: A Fresh Look at the Hebrew Bible (June, $29.95) by Pamela Tamarkin Reis. Eleven interpretations of biblical narratives revisit debated cruxes in the Old Testament.

HERALD PRESS
Grapevine: The Spirituality of Gossip (Mar., $14.99) by Jerry A. Camery-Hoggatt exposes the bad side of everyday gossip and counsels uplifting gossip.

A Healing Grief: Walking with Your Friend Through Loss (Mar., $11.99) by Sara Wengerd is a personal memoir with help for others.

HOHM PRESS
Journey to Heavenly Mountain: An American's Pilgrimage to the Heart of Buddhism in Modern China (Apr., $16.95 paper) by Jay Martin offers a rare inside look at monastic life in contemporary China.

HONOR BOOKS
God's Little Devotional Book for Graduates (Mar., $14.99) offers devotionals to inspire and encourage graduates.

With Love from Daddy (Mar., $9.99) by Robert Wolgemuth aims to help fathers communicate with their daughters.

HOWARD PUBLISHING
Covenant Marriage: Staying Together for Life (Mar., $19.99) by Fred Lowery outlines the principles that are now a legal option in three states.

The Survival Guide for Christians on Campus: How to Be Students and Disciples at the Same Time (Mar., $14.99 paper) by Tony Campolo and William Willimon answers difficult questions arising from today's college scene.

Pearls: A Collection of Inspirational Gems (Mar., $11.99) by Anita Higman and Ruth Vaughn is a gift book of beautiful thoughts and messages.

HUNGRY MINDS
Religion for Dummies (Mar., $21.99 paper) by The God Squad (aka Rabbi Marc Gellman and Monsignor Tom Hartman) contains sound advice for practicing religion in daily life.

Buddhism for Dummies (Aug., $21.99 paper) by Jonathan Landaw touches on everyday observances, celebrations, styles, practices, meditation and more.

IGNATIUS PRESS
A Treasury of Wisdom: The Words of Jesus (Mar., $15.95) weds memorable sayings with classical paintings by Raphael and others.

Three Approaches to Abortion: A Compassionate and Thoughtful Guide to the Most Controversial Issue Today (Mar., $9.95 paper) by Peter Kreeft offers logical, personal and dialogical explanations.

An Exorcist: More Stories (Mar., $14.95 paper) by Gabriele Amorth. Rome's chief exorcist delves more deeply into the occult and Satanism.

INNER TRADITIONS INT'L
Gods of Eden: Egypt's Lost Legacy and the Genesis of Civilization (Mar., $20 paper) by Andrew Collins documents the secret history of pre-pharaonic Egypt.

The Gospel of Mary Magdalene (Mar., $14.95 paper) by Jean-Yves Leloup is called the first complete English translation of the original Coptic gospel.

INNISFREE PRESS
Stumbling Toward God: A Prodigal's Return (May, $15.95 paper) by Margaret McGee. A woman joins both a Unitarian and an Episcopal church.

The Haunt of Grace: Exploring the Mysteries of God (Aug., $15.95 paper) by Ted Loder. A dozen provocative essays muse on contemporary faith-life issues.

INTERVARSITY PRESS
The Prophet and the Messiah (Mar., $12.99 paper) by Chawkat Moucarry gives an Arab-Christian's perspective on Islam and Christianity.

Daughters of Islam (Mar., $13.99 paper) by Miriam Adeney. Case studies enable American Christians to relate to Arab women of Muslim backgrounds.

The Most Reluctant Convert (Apr., $15.99) by David C. Downing follows C.S. Lewis's tumultuous journey of spiritual and intellectual exploration.

Walking Away from Faith (Apr., $16.99) by Ruth Tucker. After considering prominent Christians who struggled with their faith, the author tells why she continues to believe.

Going Gaga for Yoga If you think "down dog" is a command for restraining your pooch, then you obviously aren't hip to the latest fitness craze. "Down dog" is a widely recognized pose in yoga, the ancient Hindu exercise regimen that's once again all the rage. But yoga is more than a way to stretch your hamstrings; it's also a philosophy that has spiritual benefits "off the mat." Now several new books have adapted these ancient teachings for contemporary audiences. For those who don't know pranayama from plow position, yoga teacher Darren John Main translates the Sanskrit for Westerners in Yoga and the Path of the Urban Mystic (Findhorn Press, Mar.). "Yoga was originally designed for people living in caves in the Himalayas," Main says. "It wasn't designed for people in Chicago or San Francisco." Nor was it designed for Jews--but that hasn't stopped Steven A. Rapp from making the connection between the physical practice of hatha yoga and Jewish spirituality. In Aleph-Bet Yoga (Jewish Lights, Mar.) Rapp highlights yoga poses that physically resemble each of 28 letters from the Hebrew alphabet and weaves together teachings about both. "I wanted to show that yoga practice is not antithetical in any way and is in fact complementary to the teachings of Judaism," says Rapp, who teaches both yoga and Sunday school. Yoga veteran Paul Grilley delves into the deeper spiritual dimensions of yoga in Yin Yoga: Outline of a Quiet Practice (White Cloud Press, Apr.), which focuses on postures that stretch connective tissue rather than muscles. The book also contains sections on chakras, breathing and meditation.--Heidi Schlumpf

Divorce Is a Mitzvah: Finding Holiness When Your Marriage Dies (Apr., $16.95 paper) by Rabbi Perry Netter can turn a traumatic time into one of growth and greater spiritual understanding.

JEWISH PUBLICATION SOCIETY
Pathways Through the Bible: Classic Selections from the Tanakh (Mar., $45) by Mortimer J. Cohen, updated by David S.E. Stein, is a third edition of this anthology that has sold over a quarter-million copies.

Preparing Your Heart for Passover (Mar., $19.95 paper) by Rabbi Kerry Olitzky rediscovers the ritual's true spiritual nature.

Jews in America: A Cartoon History (Apr., $24.95 paper) by David Gantz surveys life and culture over the past 500 years.

An African-American Bounty A number of this spring's releases mine the rich heritage of the African-American community. Judson Press, whose African-American titles make up a third of its approximately 300-title list, accounts for three, notably An Encyclopedia of African American Christian Heritage by Marvin A. McMickle. Coming in June with a 10,000-copy first printing, this in-depth reference will feature a foreword by well-known historian Cain Hope Felder. A musical note is sounded with another comprehensive tome, Readings in African American Church Music and Worship, compiled and edited by James Abbington (GIA Publications, Mar.). The book grew out of last year's extensively researched African American Heritage Hymnal from GIA, which yielded, in the words of company v-p Alec Harris, "an incredible wealth of articles that no one ever put in a book." On the religious and political fronts, two academic presses come forward with new assessments of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.--The Legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.: The Boundaries of Law, Politics and Religion, edited by Lewis V. Baldwin (Univ. of Notre Dame, Mar.), and Against Us, but for Us: Martin Luther King Jr. and the State by Michael G. Long (Mercer Univ., Feb.).--Marcia Z. Nelson

JUDSON PRESS
The Pursuit of Wisdom: 130 Prayers from Timeless Voices (May, $13 paper) by Thomas Becknell and Mary Ellen Ashcroft affirms that wisdom begins with recognizing the need for God.

What Eve Didn't Tell Us: Sex, Casseroles and the Life of Faith (May, $14 paper) by Sue Thomen Dolquist and Jane M. Wood intends to inspire women while helping them remain grounded in their lives and faith.

The Words of Gardner Taylor, Vol. 6: 50 Years of Timeless Treasures (June, $22) by Gardner C. Taylor features over 50 sermons, most previously unpublished.

KAZI PUBLICATIONS
Al-Ghazali's Alchemy of Happiness, 2 Volumes (June, $119 hardcover; $79.95 paper) by Muhammad al-Ghazali, trans. by Jay R. Cook. This is the first complete English translation of al-Ghazali's Persian summary of his Arabic treatise on mystical Islam, The Revival of the Religious Sciences.

KTAV
Seventy Faces: Articles of Faith, Vols. 1 and 2 (Mar., $29.50 each) by Norman Lamm. Each book by the chancellor of Yeshiva University is a compendium of 60 articles and lectures written and delivered over five decades, all revealing the evolution of his viewpoints.

Principles of Jewish Activism (Mar.; $29.50, paper $19.95) by Avi Weiss explains the motivation behind demonstrations and protests based on teachings in the Torah.

The Biblical Engineer: How the Temple in Jerusalem Was Built (Mar., $29.50, paper $17.95) by Max Schwartz relies on classical and biblical sources to place the Second Temple in the contexts of science, history, politics and geography.

LANTERN BOOKS
Love, Nurture and Forgive: A Handbook on Adding New Richness to Your Life (Mar., $12 paper) by Ryuho Okawa. Spiritual growth is based on practicing "the love that gives" rather than expecting something in return.

An Unshakeable Mind: How to Cope with Life's Difficulties and Turn Them into Food for Your Soul (Mar., $12 paper) by Ryuho Okawa describes ways to build inner confidence and a firm character.

The Prayer of St. Francis (Apr., $12.95 paper) by James F. Twyman expands on the request, "Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace."

LIGUORI
Testimony of the Cross: Meditations and Prayers of John Paul II (Mar., $15.95 paper) by John Paul II is a photographic retrospective of the pope's reign. A Libreria Editrice Vaticana book.

The Abbey Prayer Book: Prayers Selected and Arranged by M. Basil Pennington (May, $14.95 paper) keeps alive the spiritual tradition of monastic communities.

LITURGICAL PRESS
Meeting Prayers (Mar., $9.95 paper), edited by Philip A. Verhalen, sets a spiritual atmosphere for the start and end of meetings.

The Manhattan Psalter: The Lectio Divina of Sister Juanita Colon (Mar., $15.95 paper) by Juanita Colon, O.C.S.O., puts forth a new reading of the Psalms for today.

The Problem of Evil in the Western Tradition (Mar., $17.95 paper) by Joseph Kelly asks, "Why do we do what we know is wrong?"

On a Sorrowful Note This season's list from Loyola Press bears a particular distinction: it features four books that deal with bereavement and dying. Due in March are Handbook for Those Who Grieve: What You Should Know and What You Can Do During Times of Loss by Martin M. Auz and Maureen Lyons Andrews; Parenting a Grieving Child: Helping Children Find Faith, Hope and Healing After the Loss of a Loved One by Mary DeTurris Poust; Longing for My Child: Reflections for Parents and Siblings After a Child's Death by Christine O'Keeffe Lafser; and When the Dying Speak: How to Listen to and Learn from Those Facing Death by Ron Wooten-Green. All four were in the publishing pipeline well before the catastrophic events of September 11. According to Heidi Toboni, director of business development for the press, each title is rooted in the authors' direct experiences with bereavement, a qualification that authenticates the writing. The books also, she adds, fit the mission of the Catholic house--"There are certain times in particular when people really turn to God." --Marcia T. Nelson

MARKUS WIENER
Islamic Art and Literature (Mar., $22.95 paper), edited by Oleg Grabar and Cynthia Robinson, demonstrates how medieval scholars combined religious texts and book design into an Islamic art form.

African Religions in Trinidad (Apr., $19.95 paper) by Frances Henry indicates how these beliefs were slowly accepted in the second half of the 20th century.

MARLOWE & CO.
Inside Islam: Essential Writings About Muslims, Their Beliefs and Their Ancient and Modern Conflicts (May, $16.95 paper), edited by John Miller and Aaron Kenedi, is a timely examination of a complex religion.

MERCER UNIV. PRESS
Against Us, For Us: Martin Luther King, Jr., and the State (Mar., $35) by Michael G. Long addresses the elements in King's three views of the state.

Generations: Stories (Apr., $24.95) by George Strange collects tales set in the South.

The Challenges of Roger Williams: Religious Liberty, Violent Persecution and the Bible (May, $40) by James P. Byrd Jr. shows how biblical interpretation led to both persecution and religious liberty in colonial America.

MESORAH PUBLICATIONS
500 Great Jewish Events (Mar., $39.99) by Nachman Zakon contributes a historical perspective on 2,000 years.

MOREHOUSE
Knowing Beyond Words: Reflections on the Inexpressible (Mar., $17.95) by John McQuiston II explores how writers and thinkers across time speak about God and the meaning of life.

Crossing: Reclaiming the Landscape of Our Lives (Mar., $12.95 paper) by Mark Barrett, O.S.B., foreword by Phyllis Tickle, takes an eloquent and humorous look at how the spiritual journey can be modeled on the hours of the monastic day.

In Transition: Navigating Life's Major Changes (Apr., $12.95 paper) by W. Wayne Price charts a clear course through bumpy waters.

Tempered Steel: God's Man Forged in the Fire of Adversity (Apr., $12.99 paper) by Steve Farrar depicts King David's recovery from bad decisions, career troubles and family woes.

Racing to Win (June, $21.99) by Joe Gibbs. The winning NASCAR owner and former Redskins coach outlines his strategies for success in life.

NAVPRESS
101 Ways to Help People in Need (Apr., $8 paper) by Steve and Janie Sjogren offers ideas of how to support those with physical, emotional and relational needs.

THOMAS NELSON
Your Road Map for Success: You Can Get There from Here (Apr., $22.99) by John C. Maxwell maintains that success is in the journey, not the destination.

Wild at Heart Field Manual: A Personal Guide to Discover the Secret of Your Masculine Soul (Apr., $16.99) by John Eldredge. This workbook explores practical and personal applications.

Devotions for a Sensational Life (Apr., $14.99) assists women in the understanding of God's glorious gift of abundant life.

No Other Name: The Word That Releases the Power of Heaven (Aug., $22.99) by Franklin Graham calls on the church to acknowledge that salvation lies in the name of Jesus.

NEW LEAF PRESS
Tender Thoughts for Couples (Mar., $10.99) by Clara Hinton is designed to enrich the lives of couples.

When Life Isn't Fair (Mar., $10.99) by Joel Freeman makes sense out of suffering.

Where Do I Go from Here? (Apr., $11.99) by Nicholas Comninellis speaks to young people facing big choices in life.

NORTHSTONE
Julian's Cell: The Earthy Story of Julian of Norwich (Mar., $17.95 paper) by Ralph Milton is a fictional biography of the 14th-century mystic and anchorite.

Personal Pilgrimage at Midlife: One Day Soul Journeys for a Time of Transition (Apr., $21.95) by Viki Hurst resolves issues of career, sexuality, finances, mortality and more.

ONEWORLD PUBLICATIONS
(dist. by NBN)
Interreligious Dialogue: A Short Introduction (Mar., $15.95 paper) by Martin Forward. The communication between faiths may hold hope for the future.

The Wisdom of the Kabbalah (June, $15.95) by Dan Cohn-Sherbok illustrates enlightening extracts from the work that inspires Madonna.

A Concise Encyclopedia of Islam (Aug., $16.95 paper) by Gordon Newby covers everything from jihad to the role of Islam in the U.S.

OPEN COURT
Archetype of the Apocalypse: Divine Vengeance, Terrorism, and the End of the World (Mar., $19.95 paper) by Edward F. Edinger is a Jungian interpretation of the Biblical Book of Revelation, with insights into the meaning of evil and end of the world prophecies.

ORBIS BOOKS
The Cosmic Dance: An Invitation to Experience Our Oneness (Mar., $25) by Joyce Rupp, art by Mary Southard, affirms life's goodness. 15,000 first printing. Advertising.

Islam, Christianity and the West: A Troubled History (Mar., $25 paper) by Rollin Armour Sr. promotes a new relationship between beliefs by eradicating misunderstandings.

I'd Rather Teach Peace: Lessons from the School of Nonviolence (Apr., $18 paper) by Colman McCarthy untangles the challenge of peacemaking.

The Thomas Merton Encyclopedia (Apr., $50), edited by William H. Shannon et al., proceeds from Abbot to Zen.

OUR SUNDAY VISITOR
Praying in the Presence of Our Lord with St. Thomas Aquinas (Mar., $7.95) by Mike Aquilina recounts how St. Thomas came to compose Eucharistic hymns.

Prayers for Prisoners (Mar., $5.95) by Ann Ball Maximilian, S.F.O., contains prayers to saints who are special patrons for prisoners.

By the Hand of Mormon: The American Scripture That Launched a New World Religion (Apr., $30) by Terryl L. Givens reviews the Book of Mormon and the ways it has been understood and exploited by detractors and proponents.

Islam (May, $17.95) by Matthew S. Gordon introduces its history and beliefs.

PALGRAVE
The Quest for the True Cross (Mar., $26.95) by Carsten Peter Thiede and Matthew d'Ancona searches for the world's most powerful icon.

The New Buddhism (May, $16.95 paper) by David Brazier is a manifesto for more compassion and social engagement.

The Martin Buber Reader (July; $59.95, paper $18.95), edited by Asher Biemann, considers the Bible, Hasidism, Judaism and Zionism.

PARACLETE PRESS
Blue Hope: A Novella (Mar., $13.95 paper) by Robert Waldron. Suffering from depression, a man finds hope in a Cistercian monastery.

Faith Beyond Faith Healing: Finding Hope After Shattered Dreams (Apr., $12.95 paper) by Kimberly Winston gathers accounts of people who found greater faith after faith healing failed.

That We May Perfectly Love Thee: Preparing Our Hearts for the Eucharist (May, $13.95) by Robert Benson readies today's worshipers for the sacrament.

PARALLAX PRESS
Master Tang Hoi: First Zen Teacher in Vietnam and China (Mar., $22) by Thich Nhat Hanh looks at the controversial claim that he brought Zen Buddhism to China 300 years before Bodhidharma.

PAULIST PRESS
Walking with Thomas Merton: Discovering His Poetry, Essays and Journals (Mar., $8.95 paper) by Robert Waldron is an appreciation of the writer and monk.

Understanding Catholicism (Mar., $14.95 paper) by Monika K. Hellwig is an updated second edition for the new millennium.

Rabbinic Stories (May; $29.95, paper $22.95), edited and with an introduction by Jeffrey L. Rubenstein, draws from the main works of classical rabbinic literature.

Great Spirits 1000-2000: The Fifty-Two Christians Who Most Influenced Their Millennium (May, $12.95), edited by Selina O'Grady and John Wilkins. Contemporary scholars profile noted figures.

Little Book of Miracles (Mar., $4.95) by Sarah M. Hupp highlights life's little triumphs. An Inspire book.

PILGRIM PRESS
Whose Kids Are They Anyway?: Religion and Morality in America's Public Schools (May, $19) by Raymond R. Roberts sheds light on the debate over moral lessons in public education.

PLOUGH
Escape Routes: For People Who Feel Trapped in Life's Hells (Mar., $10 paper) by Johann Christoph Arnold exposes the common seeds of loneliness, frustration and despair.

A Third Testament (Mar., $10 paper) by Malcolm Muggeridge. Back in print after 25 years, this follows the spiritual wanderings of St. Augustine, Blake, Pascal and others.

PRIMA COMMUNICATIONS
Positive Discipline in the Christian Home: Using the Bible to Develop Character and Strengthen Moral Values (Apr., $16.95 paper) by Jane Nelsen et al. uses biblical principles to teach respect and responsibility.

PRINCETON UNIV. PRESS
Religions of Asia in Practice: An Anthology (May, $22.95) by Donald S. Lopez Jr. selects from books on Buddhism, India, China, Tibet and Japan.

PROMETHEUS BOOKS
The Ghost in the Universe: God in Light of Modern Science (Mar., $29) by Taner Edis asks if there is a God or a spiritual reality beyond nature.

For a "Christian America": A History of the Religious Right (Apr., $28) by Ruth Murray Brown. This social history is based on 25 years of research.

H.L. Mencken on Religion (June, $29), edited by S.T. Joshi, lets the Baltimore sage speak.

Sex with Spirit: An Illustrated Guide to Techniques and Traditions (May, $24.95 paper) by Michelle Pauli introduces many approaches to spiritual sex. A Redwheel book.

Wiccan Wisdomkeepers: Modern-Day Witches Speak on Environmentalism, Feminism, Motherhood, Wiccan Lore and More (May, $24.95 paper) by Sally Griffyn interviews practitioners from around the world. A Weiser book.

A Book of Pagan Prayer (June, $19.95 paper) by Ceisiwr Serith lets readers create their own litanies and mantras. A Weiser book.

REGAL BOOKS
Discover Your Spiritual Gifts (May, $7.99 paper) by Peter Wagner assists in the building of God's kingdom.

How to Be a Christian Without Being Religious (July, $9.99 paper) by Fritz Ridenour updates a study of the book of Romans indicating that Christianity is not a religion, but a relationship.

Eating Healthy/Eating Right (July, $18.99 paper) by Scott Wilson and Jody Wilkinson provides a Bible-based health and weight-loss program.

FLEMING H. REVELL
The Last Dance But Not the Last Song: My Story (Mar., $19.99) by Renee Bondi with Nancy Curtis. The paralyzed young singer still encounters miracles.

Night Whispers: Bedtime Bible Stories for Women (July, $14.99) by Jennie Afman Dimkoff reintroduces 10 stories in an evening devotional format.

Postmarked Heaven: Saintly Wisdom for Earthly Pilgrims (July, $11.99 paper) by Jack Cavanaugh. The Christian life is viewed from the perspective of eternity.

RIVERHEAD BOOKS
Seeds of Grace: Reflections on the Spirituality of Alcoholics Anonymous (Mar., $12 paper) by Sister Molly Monahan. A nun reveals how AA helped her find sobriety.

Blessing: The Art and the Practice (June, $15 paper) by David Spangler offers information on the act of blessing from how to whom, why to when.

ST. ANTHONY MESSENGER
100 Names of Mary: Stories and Prayers (Mar., $14.95 paper) by Anthony Chiffolo ties traditional and new prayers to each of the saint's many names.

Catholic Questions, Wise Answers (Mar., $24.95 paper), edited by Michael J. Daley, collects a long-running magazine column.

SAINT MARY'S PRESS
Prayer: Celebrating and Reflecting with Girls (Mar., $24.95) by Marilyn Kielbass provides ideas for community prayer services and suggestions for enriching girls' personal prayer life.

ST. VLADIMIR'S SEMINARY PRESS
On Death (May, $9.95) by Alexander Schmemann unearths the brightness of joy within the darkness of death.

In the Image of the Trinity: Volume 2 of the Collected Works (Aug., $15.95) by Bishop Kallistos Ware outlines the relationship between the Holy Trinity and humans.

From Diss to Discussion In One People, Two Worlds: An Orthodox Rabbi and a Reform Rabbi in Search of Common Ground (Schocken, Aug.), two rabbis examine whether Orthodoxy and Reform are two branches of a common Jewish tree or two offshoots that grow ever more separate and distinct. Rabbi Yosef Reinman, an Orthodox Talmudic scholar, and Rabbi Ammiel Hirsch, a Reform advocate of religious pluralism, are each pleasantly surprised to discover that the popular understandings of Orthodoxy as rigid and Reform as unlearned no longer accurately describe the positions the two unfold over the course of a 20-month dialogue that is part rabbinic disputation, part family disagreement. "The most outstanding feature of this book is the wonderment these two rabbis express to each other," says Schocken editorial director Altie Karper, adding that this is an "unprecedented" collaboration between two viewpoints more likely to "delegitimize" each other than engage in dialogue. The publisher plans a 15,000-copy first printing, and will send the authors--they became friends--on the Jewish book fair circuit in the fall.--Marcia Z. Nelson

SERVANT
When Teens Stray (May, $10.99 paper) by Scott Larson equips parents with the tools to care for troubled youngsters.

26 Words That Will Improve the Way You Do Family (June, $10.99 paper) by Dan Seaborn reinforces family bonds with such words as awareness, quality and selfless.

The Work of His Hands (Aug., $14.99) by Ken Gire points to God's restoration of lives wounded by damaging experiences.

SHAMBHALA
Being Zen: Bringing Meditation to Life (Mar., $21.95) by Ezra Bayda clarifies the commotion of daily existence.

The Five Wisdom Energies: A Buddhist Way of Understanding Personalities, Emotions and Relationships (Mar., $21.95) by Irini Rockwell proposes a system similar to the Enneagram.

Sacred Passage: How to Provide Fearless, Compassionate Care for the Dying (Mar., $21.95) by Margaret Coberly. Relying on Tibetan Buddhist teachings, a nurse extends practical advice.

The Wonder of Presence (Apr., $12.95 paper) by Toni Packer. The spiritual teacher directs readers to discover a new openness.

SHEED & WARD
Seeing with Our Souls: Monastic Wisdom for Every Day (Mar., $14.95 paper) by Joan Chittister, O.S.B., cultivates qualities of the soul necessary for deeper living.

Letters to a Loving God: A Prayer Journal (Apr., $16.95 paper) by Andrew Greeley encourages readers to find their own prayerful voices.

Professions of Faith: Living and Working as a Catholic (May, $12.95 paper), edited by James Martin, S.J., and Jeremy Langford, is the fifth book in the Come and See series.

SKINNER HOUSE BOOKS
(dist. by IPM)
Through the Rose Window: Art, Myth and the Religious Imagination (Mar., $18 paper) by John F. Hayward and Kenneth Oliff shows how religion and art are vehicles of truth.

What We Share: Collected Meditations, Vol. 2 (May, $14), edited by Patricia Frevert. Over 60 meditations usher in wisdom and hope.

Zohar: Annotated & Explained (Apr., $15.95 paper) by Daniel C. Matt looks into the cornerstone of Kabbalah.

SMYTH & HELWYS
Reframing Spiritual Formation: Discipleship in an Unchurched Culture (Mar., $12) by Edward H. Hammett reaches out to those seeking meaning in our rapidly changing world.

SOPHIA INSTITUTE PRESS
Why Bad Things Happen to Good Catholics: And Other Mysteries of God's Love and Providence--Explained! (Mar., $14.95 paper) by Henri Morice proves that God draws good out of evil.

Man, Woman and the Meaning of Love: God's Plan for Love, Marriage, Intimacy and the Family (Mar., $12.95 paper) by Dietrich von Hildebrand underscores the splendor of Catholic teachings on love, sex and wedlock.

The Secret Diary of Elisabeth Leseur: The Woman Whose Goodness Changed Her Husband from Atheist to Priest (May, $17.95 paper) by Elisabeth Leseur. This new edition contains the diary itself.

SORIN BOOKS
(dist. by Ave Maria Press)
Canticle of the Earth: The Words of Francis of Assisi Celebrated in the Photography of David and Marc Muench (Mar., $15.95 paper) by David and Marc Muench reproduces nature photos along with the saint's writings.

Earth's Echo: Sacred Encounters with Nature (Mar., $12.95 paper) by Robert M. Hamma offers meditations on the sacred reality of nature using excerpts from the works of nature writers.

STARBURST PUBLISHERS
Revelation--Learn the Word (Apr., $14.99 paper) is biblical commentary just for teens.

50 Ways to Stand Up for America: Put the Spirit of July 4th into Everyday Life (Apr., $11.99 paper) heightens patriotic feelings.

The Little Inspirational Bathroom Bible Book: Facts, Trivia, Humor & Inspiration from the Good Book (May, $13.99 paper) is called the first book of its kind rated G.

STERLING
Easy-to-Use Zen: Refresh and Calm Your Mind, Body and Spirit with the Wisdom of Zen (Apr., $19.95 paper) by David Scott enlightens with stories and explanations of basic concepts. A Vega book.

Practical Kabbalah for Magic & Protection (Apr., $14.95 paper) by Vanessa Lampert harnesses the power of this complex belief system for healing and security. A Friedman/Fairfax book.

STRANG COMMUNICATIONS
Inner Strength Series (Mar., $8.99 each paper) by John Bevere. Six books teach Christians how to reinforce relationships.

Islam and Terrorism (Mar., $13.99 paper) by Mark Gabriel investigates the teachings and goals of Islam.

The Bible Cure Series (May, $6.99 each paper) by Don Colbert. Three books advocate biblical solutions for stress, irritable bowel syndrome and prostate disorders.

TARCHER/PUTNAM
Great with Child: Reflections on Faith, Fullness and Becoming a Mother (Apr., $23.95) by Debra Rienstra journeys through pregnancy, birth and the first 12 months of motherhood.

God's Dictionary: Divine Definitions for Everyday Enlightenment (May, $14.95 paper) by Susan Corso is a spiritual-minded dictionary to enliven the experience of language.

The Essential Ernest Holmes (Aug., $14.95 paper), edited by Rev. Jesse Jennings, revisits core writings of the scholar and mystic who lived from 1887 to 1960.

Spirituality in Patient Care: Why, How, When and What (May, $14.95 paper) by Harold Koenig is a handbook for medical professionals.

THREE RIVERS PRESS
God at the Kitchen Table (Mar., $13 paper) by Scott Cooper. This nondenominational guide enables parents to raise spiritually intelligent kids with or without formal religious instruction.

Jesus, Entrepreneur (June, $13 paper) by Laurie Beth Jones combines business success with soul satisfaction.

The Beginner's Guide to Walking the Buddha's Eightfold Path (July, $14 paper) by Jean Smith focuses on the concepts central to all forms of Buddhism.

Faith Meets Film So many new books are making a connection between Scripture and cinema that you might want to bring along your Bible on your next trip to the neighborhood multiplex. Although most religious Roger Eberts tend to automatically give thumbs down on the topic of popular movies, a new generation of authors is trying to take seriously the cultural currency of what's on at the movies. In Screening Scripture, an essay collection due in June from Trinity Press International, editors George Aichele and Richard Walsh write, "We do not expect moviemakers to be biblical scholars, but we do entertain the possibility that cinematic artistry may contribute to biblical scholarship." Theresa Sanders analyzes sanctity in cinema in Celluloid Saints (Mercer Univ. Press, Apr.), dispelling the myth that Tinseltown is antireligion. "I think Hollywood is fascinated with religion," she says. "But the people who make movies aren't that well versed in theological concepts." Screenwriter Brian Godawa also tries to move the Hollywood-religion relationship beyond mutual bashing. "A lot of Christians go way too far in their simplistic condemnations, especially of the sex and violence in movies," says Godawa in Hollywood Worldviews: Watching Movies with Wisdom and Discernment (InterVarsity Press, July). "There's lots of sex and violence in the Bible, too," he says. "In fact, by many standards, the Bible would be rated R."--Heidi Schlumpf

TRINITY PRESS INT'L
Rescuing Jesus from the Christians (Apr., $16 paper) by Clayton Sullivan seeks to free Jesus from the "dogmatic straightjacket" of orthodox Christianity.

The Making of Sages: Biblical Wisdom and Contemporary Culture (Apr., $22 paper) by Donn F. Morgan. Wise leaders can be led to greatness within biblical traditions.

Men and Their Religion: Honor, Hope and Humor (Aug., $17 paper) by Donald Capps says that men may fail to see themselves as religious when indeed they are.

TWENTY-THIRD PUBLICATIONS
The Poor Are the Church: A Conversation with Fr. Joseph Wresinski, Founder of the Fourth World Movement (Apr., $16.95 paper) by Gilles Anouil traces the growth of this group devoted to working with the unfortunate.

More Seasonal Homilies (Apr., $19.95 paper) by William J. Bausch includes gospel themes, special occasions and homilies given post-9/11.

Why Believe? (Apr., $7.99) by Greg Laurie asserts that Jesus answers honest questions.

You Don't Have to Sit on the Floor: Making Buddhism Part of Your Everyday Life (Mar., $12.95) by Jim Pym makes the belief accessible to Americans.

Vastu Home: Harmonize Your Living Space with the "Indian Feng Shui" (Aug., $17.50) by Patrick McSadzean includes color photos.

UNITY HOUSE
Looking in for Number One: Adventures in Uncommon Sense (Aug., $14.95 paper) by Alan Cohen is a series of 52 practical lessons for reclaiming a joyful life.

UNIV. OF CALIFORNIA PRESS
Passionate Uncertainty: Inside the American Jesuits (Mar., $29.95) by Peter McDonough and Eugene C. Bianchi. Hundreds of interviews enliven an intimate look at the turmoil within.

UNIV. OF CHICAGO PRESS
The Idea of a Catholic University (Apr., $28) by George Dennis O'Brien looks into the sometimes contradictory ideas of "truth" as sought in universities and by Catholicism.

UNIV. OF ILLINOIS PRESS
Preacher: Billy Sunday and Big-Time American Evangelism (Mar., $19.95 paper) by Roger A. Bruns concerns the man who bridged the gap between 19th-century tent revivals and today's evangelical empires.

From Yahweh to Yahoo!: The Religious Roots of the Secular Press (May, $34.95) by Doug Underwood views religious impulses at work in the typical newsroom.

UNIV. OF NORTH CAROLINA PRESS
Roman Catholics and Shi'i Muslims: Prayer, Passion and Politics (Mar., $24.95) by James A. Bill and John Alden Williams centers on the similarities between the two religions.

Moral Reconstruction: Christian Lobbyists and the Federal Legislation of Morality (May; $59.95, paper $19.95) by Gaines M. Foster uncovers the forces behind laws passed between 1865 and 1920.

UNIV. OF NOTRE DAME PRESS
The Legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr.: The Boundaries of Law, Politics and Religion (Mar.; $42.95, paper $24.95), edited by Lewis V. Baldwin, researches the ways in which King united moral/religious convictions and political activity.

Living Icons: Persons of Faith in the Eastern Church (Apr., $37.50) by Michael Plekon portrays 10 people from the Eastern Orthodox Church.

UNIV. PRESS OF KENTUCKY
When Slavery Was Called Freedom: Evangelicalism, Proslavery & the Causes of the Civil War (July, $45) by John Patrick Daly argues that anti- and pro-slavery camps emerged from the same evangelical roots.

UPPER ROOM BOOKS
Quiet Spaces: Prayer Interludes for Women (Mar., $12) by Patricia Wilson utilizes still moments in busy days to connect with God.

Abiding Hope: Encouragement in the Shadow of Death (Apr., $13) by Ann Hagmann. The Psalms let faith sustain life in the face of death.

At Home with God: Family Devotions for the School Year (May, $20) by Anne Broyles et al. is for those with elementary-age children.

W PUBLISHING GROUP
Seduction of the Heart (Mar., $22.99) by Tim LaHaye and Ed Hindson arms Christians for the battle against the media and materialism.

Thunder of Heaven (Mar., $13.99 paper) by Ted Dekker. Terrorism from deep in the Amazon jungle threatens to destroy America.

Great Lives Vol. 6: Paul (Apr., $21.99) by Charles Swindol reignites the passion Paul felt for Jesus.

Plant a Geranium in Your Cranium (Apr., $14.99 paper) by Barbara Johnson is a big package of humor, comfort and encouragement.

My Heart's Cry (June, $21.99) by Anne Graham Lotz builds on passages from the Gospel of John.

WATERBROOK PRESS
Everyday Heroes (Mar., $15.95) by Joe Wheeler tells of ordinary people whose moral courage made a difference in critical situations.

The Rock That Is Higher (Mar., $14.99) by Madeleine L'Engle undertakes a journey with personal experiences and Scripture.

A Can of Peas (July, $12.99) by Traci DePree. A newly wed couple tries to save the family farm in Minnesota.

The Healing Quilt (July, $13.99) by Lauraine Snelling. Four women join forces to change their community.

WESTMINSTER JOHN KNOX
The Faith of Fifty Million: Baseball, Religion and American Culture (Mar., $16.95 paper), edited by Christopher H. Evans and William R. Herzog II, analyzes the relationship between baseball and theology.

The Bible from Scratch: The Old Testament for Beginners (Mar., $9.95 paper) by Donald L. Griggs introduces basic tools and skills for Bible study.

JOHN WILEY
Zen Miracles: Finding Peace in an Insane World (Apr., $24.95) by Brenda Shoshanna is a start-up guide to meditation.

The Way: Using the Wisdom of Kabbalah for Spiritual Transformation and Fulfillment (Aug., $14.95 paper) by Michael Berg demystifies the profound principles.

WISDOM PUBLICATIONS
Ordinary Mind: Exploring the Common Ground of Zen and Psychotherapy (Apr., $22.95) by Barry Magid synthesizes Eastern religion and Western psychology.

ZONDERVAN
The Church God Blesses (Mar., $9.99) by Jim Cymbala with Stephen Sorenson. The pastor of the Brooklyn Tabernacle describes the kind of church God wants.

Surviving a Spiritual Mismatch (Apr., $12.99 paper) by Lee and Leslie Strobel encourages believers to live out their faith authentically in front of their unchurched spouses.

Cape Refuge (Apr., $12.99 paper) by Terri Blackstock launches the Cape Refuge suspense series in which a young man is accused of murdering his in-laws.

Jordan's Star (May, $12.99 paper) by Gilbert Morris. A newly married couple travels the Oregon Trail.

The Face of God (July, $12.99 paper) by Bill Myers. A senior pastor yearns to rediscover his fervent love of God.