Thomas Nelson, Inc. Wins 2012 Christian Book of the Year

NASHVILLE, Tenn., May 2, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- For the fourth consecutive year a Thomas Nelson, Inc. title has been recognized as the ECPA's Christian Book Awards Book of the Year.  At this week's Executive Leadership Summit, Thomas Nelson won the 2012 award for "Nearing Home" by Billy Graham (ISBN 9780849948329). 

"Close Enough to Hear God Breathe" by Greg Paul (ISBN 9781400203000) was awarded the 2012 Non-fiction Christian Book Award.  The winning books were two of six Thomas Nelson titles that were named 2012 finalists.

"It is truly an honor for both 'Nearing Home' and 'Close Enough to Hear God Breathe' to receive these well-deserved recognitions," said Mark Schoenwald, president and CEO of Thomas Nelson.  "Both authors have touched the lives of many and we are humbled by their work."

Since its release in October 2011 "Nearing Home" has made multiple appearances on the "New York Times" best seller lists, adding to the numerous bestselling titles Dr. Graham has published with Thomas Nelson.  In a statement, David Moberg, senior vice president and group publisher said, "We have enjoyed a wonderful publishing relationship with Billy Graham for nearly four decades.  God continues to bless and inspire us through his words, and we are thrilled that he was chosen to receive this very special recognition."

"Close Enough to Hear God Breathe," also released in October 2011, is Greg Paul's first title published by Thomas Nelson.  Brian Hampton, senior vice president and publisher stated, "I offer my sincerest congratulations to Greg.  It is a much deserved honor for a wonderfully written, compelling book." 

The Company's 2012 finalists were: "KJV400 Study Bible"; "The Love and Respect Experience" by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs; "Live Loved" by Max Lucado; "Surprised by Oxford" by Carolyn Weber; "Nearing Home" by Billy Graham and "Close Enough to Hear God Breathe" by Greg Paul.

"I am thankful to our authors who have provided us with remarkable content to publish," said Schoenwald. "I am also grateful for the Thomas Nelson family, who is truly dedicated to inspiring the world through our content and work."

For additional information on any of Thomas Nelson's 2012 Christian Book Award winners, finalists or previous winners, please visit www.ThomasNelson.com. 

Thomas Nelson, Inc. is the world's largest Christian publisher. The Company provides multiple formats of Bibles, inspirational books and digital content, with distribution of its products in more than 100 countries. Live Event Management, Inc., a Thomas Nelson company, is the nation's leading producer of Christian live events. Thomas Nelson is headquartered in Nashville, TN. For additional information, please visit www.thomasnelsoncorporate.com

SOURCE Thomas Nelson