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 people around the world increasingly engaging in communal discernment, it’s a trend that seems set to continue.
With religious 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. Perhaps how to meet the challenges they might find themselves facing or how to further embrace their beliefs and religious authors bring a unique perspective to the written word because of what and who they believe in.
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. Readers might also be looking to expand their knowledge and in this case extensive research is the bedrock upon which learning is founded.
Unfortunately, religious commentary is often made overly complicated and this is something authors writing in the religious genre should remain cognizant of as their words must first and foremost be accessible.