Dear family and friends…

We have very exciting news to share with regard to Judson’s book.

But before I delve into the good news, I want to provide a little context about the publishing industry for those of you who, like me, have limited knowledge about the business…

In recent years there has been an explosion of books on the market.  Approximately 290,000 books were published last year, just in the United States.  Because of the sheer volume, nowadays most traditionally published books are be put into full distribution –meaning they are available everywhere books are sold by purchasing online or placing an order through a bookstore—but only a very small percentage of those books actually make it onto bookstore shelves.  It is estimated that less than 15% of books published each year are actually carried in stores by retailers.   And of those 15%, the five largest publishers (Random House, Harper Collins, Time Warner, etc.) account for about 80% of shelved books.  All that to say, for an unknown, no-name, first-time author, published by a small, Christian publishing house out of Oklahoma to be picked up by a major book retailer for in-store sales is extremely rare.  Hence the exciting news…

Barnes & Noble has decided to carry Eyes that See on their shelves.

Our publisher met last Thursday with the buyer for Barnes & Noble and, though the specific details have yet to be determined, they have chosen to include Eyes that See in their summer line-up of new books in stores.  And because Barnes & Noble is the leading in-store book retailer worldwide, other bookstores are expected to follow.  This is HUGE news for the little book that grew organically out of the life and death of our precious boy.

So here is the low-down… Eyes that See is currently in Early Release and available now for immediate purchase exclusively at STORYofJUDSON.com.  The Official Release date remains April 6, 2010 at which time the book will be in full distribution and available everywhere books are sold (online or in-store ordering).  Then in July 2010 Eyes that See is expected to be on Barnes & Noble shelves.

We are grateful, encouraged, and trust we are continuing to see God at work in Judson’s story.  Understandably our hearts are all wrapped up in this project as it feels like a piece of our beloved son, but we want to move forward with open hands, constantly surrendering our hopes for the legacy of our boy, allowing God to work however he may choose.

Thank you so much for your love and support.  It means the world to us!

Always missing Jud,
Christina (on behalf of Drake too)