Probably the most unique signing at this year's International Christian Retail Show in St. Louis (June 23-26) wasn’t done in the usual way. Sarah Kovac was born with a condition called arthrogryposis multiplex congenita, a rare defect that left her shoulders, arms, and fingers shortened and lacking muscles. She learned to do routine activities such as eating and writing with her feet, and that’s how Kovac signed almost 125 advanced reader copies of her debut book, In Capable Arms: Living a Life Embraced by Grace (Abingdon, Sept.).
National media took notice of this new mother caring for her child with her feet when she sent a video to CNN’s iReports. CNN aired the video as part of a feature on families dealing with disabilities. That feature led to speaking events, which led to a book contract with Abingdon.
“Sarah’s story inspires because of what’s she’s had to overcome, but also because everyone can relate to it,” said Cat Hoort, marketing and publicity manager for Abingdon. “Her story is our story in a lot of ways, and that endears her to us.”
Abingdon plans a national campaign in print, online, radio, television, and social media, along with supplemental downloads for group discussion and ministry needs.
