The religious and faith-based book market continues to see year on year growth, which certainly indicates a surge of public interest in what has historically been a minority genre. And with congregations around the world increasingly engaging in communal discernment it’s a trend that seems set to continue.
With Christian authors and poets, there is a distinct and unique difference in the message and values they share through their written work and for many, there is either a special reason to write or a significant life influence that guides their hand whilst those who read religious, spiritual or inspirational books want reads that provide them with genuine insight. How to meet the challenges they might find themselves facing or how to further embrace their beliefs and as authors, Christians bring a unique perspective to the written word because of what and who they believe in. And this is equally true of philosophy’s like Buddhism which teach a practical path of human development.
However, as with all genres that enjoy a surge in popularity it’s often hard to single out the dross and charlatans from the genuine gems. Attractive covers and polished marketing copy doesn’t cut it when there is little of substance to be found inside. Religious and spiritual readers are looking for authentic authors who are willing to share what they have learned from their mistakes and experiences, how they arrived at their choices, and how they have grown and were transformed by their beliefs. On many levels, the accounts and stories are universal reflections on such things as rites of passage or dealing with pivotal events but invariably readers are looking for what made it possible for the author to grow, change and become a stronger and better person.
Unfortunately, in western commentary religion and whole vision for life philosophy’s like Buddhism that include meditation, study, ritual and a deepening sense of purpose are often made overly-complicated and this is something authors writing in the religious genre should remain cognizant of. Their words must first and foremost be accessible.
One author who is doing this is Nora D’Ecclesis with her release Zen Rohatsu It’s unreservedly recommended and you can read our full review by clicking on the cover below.