Colorado Springs, CO—David C Cook announces the third children’s book from New York Times bestselling author
Francis Chan, this one entitled Ronnie Wilson’s Gift (March 1, 2011, David C Cook). Ronnie Wilson’s Gift is a story
which helps children discover how giving to others is the same as giving to God. Via beautiful four‐color
illustrations and an insightful storyline, young readers and the adults who love them will experience the power of
loving generosity.
Ronnie Wilson’s Gift tells the story of Little Ronnie who is amazed to hear how Jesus came to offer the gift of
salvation to his followers. Ronnie wants to express his gratitude by giving a gift back to Jesus: his favorite baseball
glove. But Ronnie’s attempts to send the glove to heaven, by tossing it skyward or tying it to a balloon are
thwarted. Yet in the midst of his failed attempts, Ronnie actually succeeds. Because Ronnie showed love to the
least of those around him–he buys a hot dog for a sad man on the street, he encourages a neighbor, and he gives
a balloon to a girl who lost hers. Gradually Ronnie comes to understand that he can give something to God, even if
the glove never reaches heaven.
Francis Chan’s new story for young readers embodies the concept found in Matthew 25:40: “And the King will
answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’” Chan
hopes families will be changed as they read Ronnie Wilson’s Gift: “I hope this story introduces a powerful concept
to children, yet they can only internalize this lesson as they learn to give generously along with their parents. It’s
our responsibility to care for those in need, but it’s also a joy. I hope children begin to exercise the muscle of
compassion in action as they hear the tale of Ronnie Wilson’s Gift.”
Francis Chan is the founding pastor of Cornerstone Church in Simi Valley, CA, founder and president of Eternity
Bible College and also serves on the boards of Children’s Hunger Fund and World Impact. His two books, Crazy
Love and Forgotten God, are bestsellers. Crazy Love has sold more than 1,300,000 copies. Although first
published in 2008, Crazy Love has spent 11 weeks on The New York Times bestseller lists during 2010 and 2011,
and the title has been named Family Christian Store’s “Book of the Year” for 2011. Chan’s three children’s books,
which include previous releases Halfway Herbert and The Big Red Tractor and the Little Village, are published by
David C. Cook. Chan has also recently released a unique film series designed to challenge Christians to be the
Church as described in Scripture called BASIC, BasicSeries.com.
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