Acorn press Resource guide
Spring 2014
www.acornpress.net.au
New titles
The Songs of Jesse Adams
Peter McKinnon
Acorn’s first fiction title
A re-imagining of the story of Jesus in 1960s Australia.
Set in the turmoil of social change and political unrest of Australia during
the 1960s, The Songs of Jesse Adams traces the meteoric rise of a boy from
the bush – a farmer’s son who breaks away to follow his heart, his dreams
and his love of music. But, as Jesse travels with his band and the crowds
gather, it becomes clear that something else is afoot. This rock singer
captivates and transforms a host of fans who hear his songs and encounter
his touch. Lives are changed in unexpected ways and the enigmatic Jesse
becomes a symbol of hope and freedom for those on society’s edge. But not
all will celebrate the rising tide of influence of this charismatic figure whose
words and actions challenge those in power – the media, the politicians, the
church. In one tumultuous week this clash of ideals comes to a head – with
profound consequences.
Awash in all the protest and collapse of conservative Australia, the colour
and madness that was the sixties, The Songs of Jesse Adams is a tale of
conflict, betrayal and tragedy, but ultimately the triumph of love. 352 pages.
Available in paperback (ISBN 9780987428677) and eBook (9780987428684)
formats. RRP $29.95
The Suburban Captivity of the Church: Contextualising the
Gospel for Post-Christian Australia
Tim Foster
‘The Suburban Captivity of the Church is a powerful expression of hope and
love for a location that many have chosen to dismiss and diminish – the city
and its suburbs. I take great hope in how this book offers positive ways in
which the churches can reimagine and rebirth their lives as gospel
communities. We live in crazy, confusing times that are amassing huge
levels of anxiety in us all. Churches see themselves struggling. Established
narratives about Christian life and identity are unravelling all about us. In
this context, too many leaders keep trying to fix their churches by aping
programs and trying to reenergise existing forms one more time. Tim has
learned that the way the church is remade as a gospel people is through
contextualisation: re-entering these strange places called suburbs in order to
listen to the quiet but real ways in which the Spirit is already ahead of us in
the city’ – Alan Roxburgh.
Available in paperback (ISBN: 978-0-9924476-1-8) and
eBook (978-0-9924476-2-5) formats. 154 pages. RRP $17.95
From Head to Toe: Men and Their Roles in the First Two Generations
of Christianity
Ross Saunders
From Head to Toe invites us to into the world of men in the first two generations of
Christianity as they come to terms with what it means to follow Jesus. We share in
their struggles and triumphs as they make the journey ‘from head to toe’ – from
status-seeking to serving. Ross Saunders shows us how to read the New Testament
with new eyes and hearts, exploring our own understanding of authority, leadership
and service within the household of God.
‘For a church that has been steeped in patriarchy, it is quite a shock to see Jesus as a
feminist. But that is exactly what Ross Saunders documents. Scholarly but readable,
From Head to Toe examines the lives of dozens of men in the Bible as they are
called to relinquish status and accept Jesus’ radical view: that true leadership means
becoming a servant to all ... To follow Jesus, we men must abandon all claims to
privilege or power. Only then can we be free’ – Steve Biddulph.
256 pages. Available in paperback (ISBN: 978-0-9874286-9-1) and
eBook (978-0-9924476-0-1) formats. RRP $29.95.
Recent Titles
Eating Heaven: Spirituality at the Table
Simon Carey Holt
Sitting down at a table to eat is an activity so grounded in the ordinary, so basic to
the daily routines of life, we rarely ponder it beyond the simple inquiry, ‘What’s for
dinner?’ However, scratch a little deeper and you discover in eating one of the most
meaning-laden activities of our lives, one so immersed in human longing and
relationship that it takes on sacred dimensions.
A trained chef, teacher, social researcher, minister of religion and homemaker,
Simon Carey Holt draws on experience and research to explore the role of eating in
our search for meaning and community. To do so, he invites us to sit at the tables of
daily life – from kitchen tables to backyard barbecues, from cafe tables to the
beautifully set tables of Melbourne’s finest restaurants – and consider how our life at
these tables interacts with our deepest values and commitments.
Available in paperback (ISBN: 978-0-9874286-3-9) and eBook (978-0-9874286-4-6)
formats. 176 pages. RRP $24.95
Pieces of Eternity
Michael P. Jensen
Does God have a sense of humour? Can Christianity make sense of our 21st-century
world? What does it mean to be happy? Is it possible to survive in the jungle of
office politics, or in the warzone that is social media?
In this provocative and stimulating collection of pieces from Eternity magazine,
Michael Jensen presents an authentically Christian take on the way we live, work
and think. With insight, humanity, and a humorous touch, Jensen takes us on a tour
of the contemporary soulscape, from the fall of the Berlin Wall to the music of Cold
Chisel. He even argues that the atheists are right. Pieces of Eternity will surprise,
delight and engage its readers. Originally written for the Christian readership of
Eternity magazine, these selected pieces have been edited by the author to appeal to a
wider range of readers, including those with no church background.
Available in paperback (ISBN: 978-0-9874286-5-3) and eBook (978-0-9874286-6-0)
formats. 176 pages. RRP $24.95
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Pastoral Care and the Spiritual Life
God’s Love in Action: Pastoral Care for Everyone
Jill McGilvray
'A challenge for the Christian church has always been the translating of theology into practice.
This book will prove to be a valuable tool for Christians serious about authentic pastoral care. I
would commend this book to congregations and individuals who want to see God's love made
manifest in this world. This book will lead to people experiencing God's love "with skin on".'
Revd Peter Pereira. Paperback (ISBN: 978-0-908284-84-9). 80 pages. RRP $19.99
I, You and Us: Creating a Loving, Lasting Marriage
Shirley Goldsworthy
This book is written for couples that are contemplating marriage, engaged, being remarried,
renewing their marriage vows, or desiring to enrich their marriage. It focuses on the 'how to' of
relating to help couples to keep their vows and its resources and practical skills will assist them
to build on their strengths and strengthen their weaker areas. It is a valuable resource for clergy
and those who work with couples, individually or in a small group. Paperback (ISBN: 978-0908284-86-3). 76 pages. RRP $19.99
Out of the Depths: Bible Studies on Depression and Hope
Helen Rienits
Out of the Depths is designed for use by those experiencing mental and emotional illness, as well
as those who would like to improve their skills in caring for people in this situation. These
studies also provide some biblical teaching on the special spiritual problems that arise for those
who are struggling with mental and emotional illness, as well as some basic medical knowledge
to help those who suffer understand more about their problems and what can be done to help.
Paperback (ISBN: 978-0-908284-98-6). 84 pages. RRP $19.99
One Step at a Time
Robyn Claydon
For those seeking meaning in their lives, Robyn Claydon provides practical advice and
encouragement to grow and persevere in the Christian faith and to have the courage to face the
ups and downs of everyday life. The wonderful stories of people she has met around the world
encourage and challenge us to take one step at a time on life’s journey. Paperback (ISBN: 978-0908284-79-5) and eBook (978-1-617504-90-7). 128 pages. RRP $19.99
No Time to Say Goodbye
When a Loved One Dies, Especially a Child
Paul Arnott
Paul Arnott’s book offers solace and practical help to those who have suddenly lost a loved one
and all who assist them in their grief. This revised and expanded edition has a new chapter on
men, women and grief, discussing some of the different ways people grieve.
Paperback (ISBN: 978-0-908284-46-7) and eBook (ISBN: 978-1-617504-89-1). 146 pages. RRP
$14.99
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The Birthday Card: Snapshots of a Man’s Grief
BL Park
It is a sickening feeling to experience the death of someone who is precious to you. To be hit with
the reality that a person whose life is intricately interwoven in yours has been removed from it
and you will never see them on this planet again. No matter what you do, there is no making it
better, no turning back the clock. The author of The Birthday Card, like Job, asks, ‘Where is God
in our darkest moments?’ Available in eBook format only (ISBN: 978-1-617506-03-1). RRP
will vary according to eBook retailer.
My Brother’s Shadows: A Journey of Faith in the Midst of Tragedy
Hayley Reynolds
Hayley was 22 years old when her brother Wayne, then 16, was diagnosed with leukaemia. In My
Brother’s Shadows, Hayley recounts the emotional journey she and her family took as Wayne
fought his illnesses, before he tragically passed away 18 months later. It is filled with amazing
courage and faith amidst pain and suffering, and finally points towards the ultimate source of hope
itself. Paperback (ISBN: 978-0-9874286-1-5) and eBook (978-0-9874286-2-2). 168 pages.
RRP $19.95
Fragments of Home: Piecing Life Together after Childhood Sexual Abuse
Monique Lisbon
This book is more than just a record of one person’s path towards healing from sexual abuse. It
journals the tough, disciplined task of self-exploration and deep reflection where the anxiety of
doubt and even the threat of death are frequent companions. We witness the complex and fragile
patters of a relationship with God presented in such a way that those who have been through
similar experiences will recognise it as a story of redemption, courage and hope. Paperback
(ISBN: 978-0-908284-94-8) & eBook (978-1-617506-03-1). 176 pages. Includes music CD.
RRP $29.99
Journey: Reflecting on the Christian Way
Lydia Saunders
This beautifully presented book has been designed as a workbook for those
beginning or wanting to continue their Christian journey. The book will also
prove invaluable to others who have reached a point in their lives where they feel
compelled to reflect on where they have come on the Way and on where God
may now be taking them. Designed around a 31-day format, the book contains
exercises to assist the process, along with the author’s reflection on a number of
themes. 80 pages. Hardback (ISBN: 978-0-908284-30-6). RRP $5.00
Evangelism and Mission
Islam and Christianity on the Edge: Talking Points in Christian-Muslim
Relations into the 21st Century
John Azumah and Peter Riddell (Eds)
This collection of essays covers some of the most pressing issues in Christian-Muslim relations,
addressing matters of theology, the encounter between civilisations and inter-religious affairs.
Some of the most controversial and sensitive questions are considered, ranging from sacred text to
the politics of multiculturalism – key questions for the 21st century, a period when Christianity
and Islam are destined to interact more closely than ever before in human history. Paperback
(ISBN: 978-0-9871329-4-9) and eBook (ISBN: 978-0-9874286-0-8). 288 pages. RRP $34.95
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Muhammad: The Man who Transformed Arabia
Peter Cotterell
Muhammad’s life in some measure determines the everyday behaviour of his followers across the
world. Biographies of Muhammad have tended to present him as a man who could do nothing right
or a man who could do nothing wrong. Somewhere in between is the real Muhammad. Dr Cotterell
has taught and lectured on Islam for more than 30 years. This book is the result of those years of
struggling to understand Islam and Muhammad, its central figure. Paperback
(ISBN: 978-0-908284-93-1) & eBook (ISBN: 978-1-617509-84-1), 188 pages. RRP $19.99
Christianity alongside Islam
John W. Wilson
Second Prize in the 2011 Australian Christian Book of the Year Award. Dr Wilson's book
succeeds in digesting a vast amount of information about Christianity and Islam and presenting it in
a way that is accessible to non-speciality readers. The discussion of Christianity and Islam according
to topics helps the reader to find answers to key questions such as 'How does the Islamic view of
"X" affect me as a Christian?' The book is comprehensive in detail but very readable in style.
Hardback (ISBN: 978-0-908284-91-7). 424 pages. Includes colour plates and maps. RRP $24.95
Islam, Human Rights and Public Policy
Edited by David Claydon
A diverse group of international writers, scholars and commentators shed light on some of the most
pressing human rights and public policy challenges of our time. Contributors include thinkers of
Muslim background with extensive personal experience in developing countries, and Western writers
of both secular and religious orientation. Individual essays deal with the human rights of Muslims
and non-Muslims alike, in areas ranging from women's rights to freedom on religion. Paperback
(ISBN: 978-0-908284-76-4) & eBook (978-1-617504-88-4). 282 pages. RRP $39.99
God Next Door: Spirituality and Mission in the Neighbourhood
Simon Carey Holt
Winner of the 2008 Australian Christian Book of the Year Award. What if God lived next door?
Would you recognise him? Would you talk to him at the fence or avoid catching his eye? Would you
love him as you love yourself? Simon Holt has listened to the experiences of numerous people of
faith living in a variety of urban and suburban neighbourhoods, and his inspiring stories open up
exciting new possibilities for 21st-century mission. Paperback (ISBN: 978-0-908284-63-4) & eBook
(978-1-617504-87-7). 165 pages. RRP $24.99
Walking in the Light: Reflections on the East African Revival and Its Links to Australia
Colin Reed
This book identifies and explores the key factors behind this revival that began in Rwanda in the
1930s before spreading throughout the entire East African region. It also explores connections to
Australian missionaries serving there and their varied responses to the Revival. The influence of the
English Keswick Movement in shaping the Revival is also examined. Paperback (ISBN: 978-0908284-62-7). 288 pages. Includes photos. RRP $10.00
Connecting across Cultures: Sharing the Gospel across Cultural and Religious Boundaries
David Claydon
David Claydon describes how Christians can take the gospel across religious and cultural boundaries
in loving, sensitive and respectful ways to develop meaningful friendships with neighbours and
colleagues of different faiths. With its sensitive summaries of the historical background, central
beliefs and practices of many of the non-Christian religions present in Australia, this book is
invaluable for those wanting to understand other belief systems. It includes cultural do’s and don’ts
to help prevent misunderstandings. Contains a study guide. Paperback (ISBN: 978-0-908284-38-2) &
eBook (978-1-617506-52-9). 208 pages. RRP $22.00
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Contemporary Issues
God of the Empty-Handed: Poverty, Power and the Kingdom of God (Rev. edn)
Jayakumar Christian
Jayakumar Christian argues that in order to provide sustainable solutions to powerlessness,
poverty and oppression, it is critical to challenge and redefine power from the perspective of the
kingdom of God. Only when we realise that we are all ‘empty-handed’ before God can broken
relationships be restored. Dr Jayakumar Christian is National Director of World Vision India. He
and his family live in Chennai, India. Paperback (ISBN: 978-0-9871329-0-1), 256 pages.
RRP $29.99
Escape from West Papua: How and Why Refugees Came to Australia
Alan Nichols
What would drive 43 refugees to set out from West Papua in a traditional canoe across stormy
Torres Strait to reach Australia? Only desperation. This book is their story. It tells their dramatic
tale – why they left, how they survived at sea, and how their faith sustained them. It also recounts
the rift in Australian-Indonesian relations that arose when they received refugee status in
Australia and voices their hopes and dreams of an independent West Papua nation. Paperback
(ISBN: 978-0-908284-68-9). 80 pages. RRP $5.00
Talking about Ethics: Negotiating the Maze
Justin Denholm
The Christian faith brings with it a collection of ideas and directions about how we ought to live.
Thinking about this collection is what we call Christian ethics. The first section of this book
provides a general overview of approaches to ethics. The second section turns to ways of using
ethics as a tool in Christian life. This includes some very practical ideas about using these ethical
skills in ways that enrich and challenge in a variety of settings. Paperback
(ISBN: 978-0-9871329-1-8) & eBook (ISBN: 978-1-617506-08-6). 72 pages. Includes study
guide. RRP $14.95
Another Way to Love: Christian Social Reform and Global Poverty
Edited by Rod Yule and Tim Costello
Various contributors explore the role of Christian social reform and how we can act to stop not just
the symptoms, but also the causes of global poverty and injustice. This book explores the
theology behind social reform and looks at some major issues affecting the poor today – climate
change, overseas aid, fair trade and child slavery – and ways we can act to make a difference.
Paperback (ISBN: 978-0-908284-82-5). 192 pages. Co-published with World Vision Australia.
RRP $24.99
Better Together: Equality in Christ
Kevin Giles
At a time when views about women’s leadership seem increasingly polarised, how do Christians
know what to believe? Kevin Giles takes readers to the heart of the debate, providing an excellent
introduction to the key scriptures and areas at issue, and pointing to principles of interpretation
and practical application. Eight short studies with discussion questions. Paperback
(ISBN: 978-0-908284-85-6) & eBook (978-1-617506-07-9). 72 pages. RRP $14.99
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Choices: One Person’s Journey out of Homosexuality
Christopher Keane
This is the author’s story of how he broke with a sexually active homosexual life, as well as the
process of change he experienced after he left that life. Over time many people have asked him
how they can best help other Christians who struggle with unwanted same-sex attraction. So as
well as his own story, he has included information about what one can do if they have a
homosexual friend or relative. Paperback (ISBN: 978-0-908284-75-7) & eBook
(978-1-617506-04-8). 129 pages. RRP $10.00
Outrageous Women, Outrageous God:
Women in the First Two Generations of Christianity
Ross Saunders
This book is a study into the status and ministry of women in the New Testament, and how they
went against many of the social and religious constraints of their time. It is a fresh approach to the
place women, both Jewish and gentile, made for themselves - from the conception of John the
Baptizer to the death of the last apostle. Paperback (ISBN: 978-0-908284-83-2) & eBook
(978-1-617504-91-4). 189 pages. RRP $19.99
Women, Leadership and the Church
Jim Reiher
Does God want women in the pulpit or the pews? Jim Reiher makes no secret of where he stands
on one of the Church’s most vexed issues. He uses the Bible to argue that women’s gifts are to be
affirmed. Timely and thought provoking, this book offers readers a fresh look at this controversial
topic. Paperback (ISBN: 978-0-908284-59-7) & eBook (978-1-617504-92-1). 128 pages.
RRP $5.00
Bible Study and Theology
Jesus Unbound: The Story of Jesus of Nazareth
Jonathan Holland
J Holland uses his skills as a storyteller to bring to life Jesus, his experiences and encounters with
people. Years of research and reflection into the subject are combined with an interest in art to
produce an enjoyable, stimulating and thought provoking book. Emerging from its pages comes a
compelling and affectionate portrait of the man behind the Christian faith. This beautifully
produced devotional book is also suitable for Lenten studies or as a gift book. Jonathan Holland is
an Assistant Bishop in the Anglican Diocese of Brisbane and has a PhD in the history of postWW II Brisbane diocese. Paperback (ISBN: 978-0-908284-77-1). 128 pages. RRP $10.00
The Old Testament on the Way to the Cross
John W. Wilson
The Old Testament on the Way to the Cross provides a helpful introduction to ways in which the
Old Testament relates to the New. This is an improved format of studies which sold 10,000
copies when first published in 1994. This book consists of 49 studies (one per day for seven
weeks). At the end of each week of studies there is a series of Group Discussion Questions – ideal
for further personal reflection or group discussions. Paperback (ISBN: 978-0-908284-99-3).
56 pages. RRP $14.99
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Genesis 1–3: Science? History? Theology?
JA Thompson
This published lecture is a valuable contribution to the old science versus religion controversy,
particularly in light of recent attacks on the credibility of Christianity by an aggressive atheism.
John Thompson’s study of the literary forms in which the creation narratives are expressed shows
that the theological truths which they convey are in no way threatened by scientific discoveries.
What is critical is to understand the literary forms and the cultural milieu through which truth is
revealed by God. Paperback (ISBN: ISBN: 978-0-908284-69-6). 48 pages. RRP $5.00
The Ten Commandments and Ethics Today
Scott Cowdell
This book takes a fresh look at the Ten Commandments. It sets out to ‘rediscover’ them,
exploring their strength as an ethical code grounded in God’s wider purposes for Israel and the
Christian church. These reflections are practical, insightful and accessible to a wide readership.
They come with questions for personal reflection or else group discussion that have been tested in
practice, making this book an ideal resource for the individual Christian reader, Bible study group
or Religious Instruction class. Paperback (ISBN: 978-0-908284-70-2). 76 pages. RRP $5.00
Count Me In: A Confirmation Workbook for Young People
Kevin Giles
This popular book continues to be widely used to encourage young teenagers to think through
their faith and ask questions. Kevin Giles has written extensively and served as an Anglican
minister in a variety of Australian parishes. Paperback (ISBN: 978-0-908284-12-2). 102 pages.
RRP $19.99
Better be a Good Sermon: Preaching for Special Occasions and Contexts
Edited by Keith Weller & Adrian Lane
Following on from the very popular Please! No More Boring Sermons, the Simeon Association
has again sought out well-credentialed clergy and lay people to provide examples of sermons
preached in a wide range of situations that will be of immense assistance to all who find
themselves given the responsibility on a special occasion. This is an excellent resource.
Paperback (ISBN: 978-0-908284-87-0). 304 pages. RRP $34.99
History and Biography
View from the Faraway Pagoda: A Pioneer Australian Missionary in China from
the Boxer Rebellion to the Communist Insurgency
Robert and Linda Banks
A Pioneer Australian Missionary in China
from the Boxer Rebellion to the
Communist Insurgency
Robert & Linda Banks
This book describes the life and service of Sophie Newton, a missionary in China from 1897 to
1931. Sophie empowered women through establishing schools and training Christian workers, as
well as opposing the opium trade, foot binding and infanticide. This story describes how the
conviction, sacrifice and compassion of one single-minded woman can make a lasting difference
to a community. Paperback (ISBN: 978-0-9871329-5-6) and eBook (978-0-9871329-3-2). 168 pages.
RRP $19.95
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Spirit, Word and World: Evangelical Christianity in Australia
Stuart Piggin
Stuart Piggin’s history has been well received by secular and religious historians. This new edition
brings the story right up to the present, covering the expansion of Sydney Anglicans and Hillsong
Pentecostals. While Australia has become increasingly ‘secular’, evangelicals have become more
engaged than ever in politics, education and social welfare. Written in a lively, accessible, and
engaging way, this story raises intriguing questions about the spiritual dimension in Australian life.
Paperback (ISBN: 978-0-9871329-7-0) & eBook (978-0-9871329-8-7). 292 pages. RRP $24.95
Gumbuli of Ngukurr: Aboriginal Elder in Arnhem Land by Murray Seiffert
Winner of the 2012 Australian Christian Book of the Year Award. Two stories overlap in this
biography. One is of Michael Gumbuli Wurramara, the first Aboriginal Anglican Priest in the
Northern Territory; the second describes the life of Ngukurr community in the second half of the
20th century, as it seeks to achieve a mix of ancient and modern cultures. This work challenges
assumptions about the relationships between government, missions and Aborigines. 440 pages. Hard
cover (ISBN: 978-0-9871329-2-5) & eBook (978-0-9871329-9-4); colour plates. RRP $49.99
Economics for Life: An Economist Reflects on the Meaning of Life, Money and
What Really Matters by Ian Harper
Winner of the 2011 Australian Christian Book of the Year Award. Ian shares insights gained from
his career as an economist during an exciting period of world economic history. Writing this book
from his perspective as one of Australia's best-known economists and as a practising Christian, he
demonstrates why economics is a good servant but a bad master. This book will appeal to a range
of readers. Paperback (ISBN: 978-0-908284-95-5) & eBook (978-1-617505-27-0). 180 pages.
RRP $29.99
Refuge on the Roper: The Origins of the Roper River Mission – Ngukurr
Murray Seiffert
Why would CMS Victoria decide in 1906 to establish a mission to Aborigines in tropical North
Australia where malaria, tuberculosis and leprosy were common, and the only available transport
an occasional boat or horseback? Answers for these questions were found in the contemporary
records. Published in Ngukurr’s centenary year, the book reviews the mission’s early years.
Paperback (ISBN: 978-0-908284-67-2). 200 pages. Includes colour plates and maps. RRP $19.99
I Heard Him Call: The Story of Neville Langford-Smith
Margaret Thornton
Neville Langford-Smith lived in Tanganyika and Kenya for over four decades. He became a
teacher, headmaster and teacher trainer and in 1937 was ordained priest in Sydney, marrying
fellow missionary, Vera Dobson shortly after. Together they shared in the development and
encouragement of an indigenous church in Tanganyika and Kenya, experiencing the difficult war
years, the East African Revival and the turbulent years of the birth and growth of Kenya as a
nation. Paperback (ISBN: 978-0-908284-66-5). 162 pages. RRP $10.00
Rescued by Angels: The Story of Miracles During the Rwandan Genocide
Bishop Alexis Bilindabagabo with Alan Nichols
Alexis Bilindabagabo created the Barakabaho Foundation, which now cares for 8000 children in
foster families and has pioneered trauma counselling in the country. He has been a refugee three
times - as a five-year-old boy with his parents, as a schoolboy with his brother, and as an adult
with his family. He survived the 1994 genocide with his wife and four children through a series of
miracles. He believes God saved him so he could become 'father to the fatherless' in Rwanda.
Paperback (ISBN: 978-0-908284-39-9). 120 pages. RRP $5.00
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Montgomery of Tasmania: Henry and Maud Montgomery in Australasia
Robert Withycombe
Short-listed for the 2010 Australian Christian Book of the Year Award. Henry Montgomery,
fourth Anglican Bishop of Tasmania, 1889-1901, was a dynamic force in the national church. He
regularly left Hobart to care for remote West Coast mining communities and the Aboriginal people on
Cape Barren Island. Maud was an able partner, pioneering ministries to support vulnerable women &
children and Christian education. Hardback (ISBN: 978-0-908284-78-8). 312 pages. RRP $10.00
A House Divided? The Quest for Unity within Anglicanism by Tom Frame
This book identifies what is ailing Australia’s Anglican Church; explains why parts of it have
become diseased; advises against persisting with policies and practices deleterious to its wellbeing;
prescribes changes to its common life in order that it might regain health; and suggests actions and
attitudes that will promote vibrant mission and ministry, so that it will be able to face the challenges
rising over the next 30 years. Paperback (ISBN: 978-0-908284-92-4). 320 pages. RRP $39.99
Facing the Future: Bishops Imagine a Different Church
Edited by Stephen Hale and Andrew Curnow
Facing the Future reflects the theological diversity of this vast country and different understandings
about the episcopal role. Contributing bishops were asked to share their sense of perspective about
where they currently are, and what they see as the way forward. This book seeks to give a voice to
a significant number involved in the leadership of the Anglican church. Paperback (ISBN: 978-0908284-90-0). 260 pages. RRP $29.99
WASPS, Tykes and Ecumaniacs: Aspects of Australian Sectarianism 1945–1981
Benjamin Edwards
During 1945-81, changes in society and religion in Australia and overseas brought many issues to the
fore. Some of these changes were caused by the religious revival of the 1950s, the rise of ecumenism
and the Second Vatican Council in the 1960s, post-war mass-immigration, the politics of education,
and increasing secularism. This book contributes to the historical understanding of sectarianism in
Australian society of this period. Paperback (ISBN: 978-0-908284-74-0). 264 pages. RRP $5.00
Books written by Margaret Reeson and distributed by Acorn Press
Currency Lass: The Moving Story of a Young Woman in the Convict Town of Sydney
and the South Seas
Life in the convict colony of NSW was harsh and often cruel. But for free-settlers like the Hassalls,
Sydney was home. As one of the few eligible Australian-born girls, Mary Hassall was much admired.
This recreation of her life from contemporary letters and diaries vividly portrays her emerging
adulthood, romance and life in Sydney and on the islands of Tonga. What emerges is a story of
courage and perseverance, hope and disappointment – giving intimate insight into a vital personality
that still speaks to us today. 270 pages. Paperback (ISBN: 9780987241702). RRP $20.00
Certain Lives: The Compelling Story of the Hope, Tragedy and Triumph of Three
Generations of Women
Spanning the century from 1830 to WW1 and the Great Depression comes this dramatic story of
three generations of Australian women. Margaret Reeson evokes with warmth and insight the pain
and progress, joy and tragedy of Anna, Mary and Grace – mother, daughter and granddaughter. Here
is the stuff of real history – a giant canvas depicting the rich and varied lives of those who, despite
great obstacles, turned survival into courage, sadness into contentment and confusion into certainty.
448 pages. Paperback (ISBN: 9780987241719). RRP $25.00
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A Very Long War: The Families Who Waited
A Very Long War is about the experiences of the families of men missing in the New Guinea islands
during WW2, many of whom never returned. When Japan entered the Pacific war, the Australian
Government evacuated all Australian women and children from the Territory of New Guinea. The
women found themselves suddenly alone and solely responsible for the welfare of their families and
living in a limbo of waiting. For many of them, the effects of the mystery and the trauma have
continued to the present day. Through the voices of those who provided oral testimony, A Very Long
War echoes the common condition of all people struggling to deal with trauma and loss. 230 pages.
Paperback (ISBN: 9780987241733). RPP $20.00
Whereabouts Unknown: The Story of Those Who Disappeared After the Fall of
Rabaul In 1942 - and the Women Who Waited
One day in late June 1942, over a thousand men were taken from an internment camp in Rabaul, New
Guinea. They were never seen again. Questions surrounding their fate have continued until the
present. What really happened on that fateful day? How could such a tragedy, with a loss of
Australian life twice that of the whole Vietnam War, be left forgotten and unresolved? Was there
government incompetence? Is 'friendly fire' against the Montevideo Maru a sufficient explanation?
This is the story of the wives and families who waited, not knowing whether their men were dead or
alive – of despair and false hope, of somehow carrying on at home. It is also the story of a handful of
Rabaul nurses who disappeared behind enemy lines – beyond reach or help. 512 pages. Paperback
(ISBN: 9780987241726). RRP $30.00.
Published by SPCK-A and distributed by Acorn Press
Never Alone: The Remarkable Story of David and Robyn Claydon
Cecily Paterson
A child with no name, no parents and no place in the world, grows up in wartime Israel, escapes
death several times, is rescued, and brought to Australia. David's story, and God's work in his life, is
remarkable. His ministry and partnership with his remarkable wife Robyn, has touched lives around
the world. This is a story of two people nurtured and held close by a God who had a plan for them; a
plan which proved bigger than they could ever have imagined. 224 pages.
Paperback (ISBN: 9781876106133). RRP $25.00
Doors Are for Walking Through
Robyn Claydon
Astonishing stories of ordinary people equipped by an extra-ordinary God. Inspiring reading for
men and women; questions and Bible references for group discussions.
Paperback (ISBN: 9781876106077). RRP $18.95
Keep Walking
Robyn Claydon
Keep Walking is a compelling insight into what it means to walk with Jesus. More amazing stories
of ordinary people experiencing God at work in ways which amaze them and encourage us... and
with updates on some of the people who are familiar to us from Doors are for Walking Through.
136 pages. Paperback (ISBN: 9781876106089). RRP $18.95
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Dr Number 49: Grace Warren of The Leprosy Mission
Grace Warren and Lesley Hicks
This is an inspiring autobiography of Australasian missionary doctor, Grace Warren. By her
inventive surgical skills, faith, preparedness to obey God, and her tireless willingness to travel and
teach, Grace has saved the feet and transformed the lives of thousands suffering with diabetes and
leprosy. 320 pages. Paperback (ISBN: 9781876106140). RRP $30.00
Unusual Marriage: The story of Bill Dennett and Jo Anne Dennett
When Sydney businessman Bill Dennett, married SIM missionary doctor Jo Anne Ader, in Addis
Ababa on a balmy December day in 1973, he had no idea what he was letting himself in for. The
account of their early years, then marriage and the aftermath, will stun the reader as well as inspire.
Hard won progress is desribed with disarming frankness. Bill and Jo Anne's faith and determination to
make their marriate work, and to use their gifts and experience to glorify God, is inspiring. 216 pages.
Paperback (ISBN: 9781876106157). RRP $25.00.
Charismatic Distinctives in the Light of Scripture
Ken Smith
Biblical perspectives on baptism in the Holy Spirit and extra-biblical revelation. Is scripture
sufficient? The ministry of the Holy Spirit as it relates to these two issues is the main theme of this
book; it is not a general study on the Holy Spirit, but deals with fundamental issues of theology. 112
pages. Paperback (ISBN: 9781876106102). RRP $18.95.
Riding the Rapids: The Story of Sylvia Jeanes
Ashleigh Hooker with Jack Johnston
In 1967 twenty-five year old Sylvia Jeanes left the suburbs of Brisbane for the jungles of Borneo.
Riding the Rapids is the story of a woman who chooses a life of costly service. In the face of danger,
spiritual warfare and her own human frailty, God's power keeps carrying her along. Now after 40 years
in North Borneo, Sylvia's work continues. Her story is both encouraging and challenging.
192 pages. Paperback (ISBN: 9781976106164). RRP $25.00
Sharing God’s Love with Muslims
Bill Dennett
Like to share your faith with a Muslim friend? Uncertain how to go about it? Like to try a helpful
way of sharing? "This book is an excellent introduction and guide for Christian men and women who
wish to share the good news of Jesus Christ with Muslim friends and neighbours." John R Reid,
Former Anglican Bishop, Sydney Diocese. 136 pages. Paperback (ISBN: 9781876106157).
RRP $9.95.
Exploring the Meaning of Life
Ken Smith
This book is for Christians who have an elementary knowledge of the Scriptures, and who want to
get a better overview of the Bible as a basis for understanding events in the broader scheme of things.
Excellent for a six week group or for individual Bible study. Paperback (ISBN: 9781876106096).
RRP $14.95
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