Penning his 30th trade book of hope and inspiration, bestselling author Lucado (Grace: More than We Deserve, Greater than We Imagine) turns his attention to helping people get through illness, job loss, depression, financial woes, or any type of crisis, using the biblical story of Joseph of the-coat-of-many-colors fame. With chapter titles like “Alone, but Not All Alone,” “Stupid Won’t Fix Stupid,” and “Now, About Those Family Scandals and Scoundrels,” Lucado narrates personal stories and those of people forced to find their way through various crises that he weaves together using a thread of Joseph’s story and how the biblical figure remained steadfast in his faith in God through a number of difficult and unjust circumstances. Less fluffy than he can occasionally be, Lucado is solidly anchored in an appropriate biblical story that trumpets the lesson that there is a way through crisis, and God will use bad circumstances for good. This assurance is bolstered with helpful advice, practical applications, and other scripture verses that pave a path to perspective, survival, and strength on the other side of any crisis encountered. Agent: Steve Green, Anvil Management. (Sept.)

Once again, Lucado (Oak Hills Church, San Antonio; Cure for the Common Life) has come through with a hit. The author of dozens of inspirational books for Christians, Lucado has a special talent for storytelling. Here, his goal is to encourage people, especially the brokenhearted, through tough times. He does so in his usual personable style. Using the biblical story of Joseph and his brothers as a background, he expertly interweaves real stories with the biblical narrative, creating an accessible whole. Carefully avoiding religious platitudes, Lucado acknowledges the depth of sorrow and trouble in modern life, and offers realistic hope in a faith in God, even when such hope is hard to find. The author makes his points without being heavy-handed. Chapters such as "Stupid Won't Fix Stupid" tell it like it is in a lighthearted way. VERDICT Lucado fans will be pleased with this new release. Any reader comfortable with a Christian mind-set and looking for encouragement through difficult circumstances will be glad to turn to this work.—Holly Hebert, Brentwood P.L., TN