'Heaven Is for Real' Tops NY Times Bestseller List

By Wesley Ernst, Christian Post Correspondent Friday, February 25, 2011

Heaven is for Real – the story of a 4-year-old boy's glimpse into the afterlife – has topped the New York Times Best Sellers List for seven consecutive weeks – setting a new record for book publisher Thomas Nelson, Inc.

During the week of March 6, Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back will be listed as the #1 "nonfiction paperback" and #1 "print hardcover and paperback combined." The book's authors include Pastor Todd Burpo, his wife Sonja, and their son Colton. Lynn Vincent, a New York Times best-selling writer, also contributed to the book.

"It has been incredible to watch the contagious enthusiasm of readers drive the success of Heaven is for Real," said Michael Hyatt, Thomas Nelson chairman and Chief Executive Officer, according to a statement.

"Colton's story gives a wonderful glimpse into what lies ahead for believers, and encourages us to embrace our childlike faith."

The book is based on the true story of a pastor's son in a small town in Nebraska.

Colton Burpo suffered from a life-threatening illness when he was just 4 years old. While undergoing surgery, the young boy slips into unconsciousness and enters heaven. He ultimately survives and begins to recount an out-of-body experience to his family – who remain skeptical at first. Soon, they come to believe the child's story.

Though the story is told through Colton's eyes, the book is written by his father, Todd Burpo, in cooperation with Lynn Vincent.

Throughout the story, the message is simple: heaven is a real place; Jesus really loves children; be ready, there is a coming last battle.

Since its release in November last year, the book's sales continue to surpass expectations, says the book's publisher.

It is currently ranked #6 by USA Today, #4 for nonfiction paperback by Publisher's Weekly, #4 for nonfiction paperback by National Public Radio, and #3 by the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association.

At the time of this writing, Heaven is for Real has reached its one millionth print.