MercyMe's 'I Can Only Imagine' Inspires Book

By Katherine T. Phan, Christian Post Reporter Tuesday, April 27, 2004

J. Countryman, the inspirational gift book division of Thomas Nelson Inc., announced a deal was signed with MercyMe to do a gift book based on their best-selling song, "I Can Only Imagine." The gift book, also titled I Can Only Imagine will release to stores on June 22, 2004.

“Music has such a powerful influence in our lives, and when a song comes along like 'I Can Only Imagine' and it touches the lives of literally millions, then the song takes on a life of its own,” said Troy Johnson, Vice President and Associate Publisher. “MercyMe is not only one of the top Christian groups, but their success is based on staying true to what God has called them to do. It’s a blessing that J. Countryman has the opportunity to develop and publish an inspiring gift book around this platinum selling song that has ministered and touched so many lives.”

Alongside lyrics from the song, which reached book the top 4 on mainstream AC, and top 25 on both the CHR/Pop and Hot AC chart, the book will feature a compilation of stories from people who have their own “I Can Only Imagine” testimonies.