COS COB, Conn., Feb. 11, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- For the first time in its 20-year history, Chicken Soup for the Soul is releasing a one-of-a-kind tribute book composed of stories and recollections honoring a single individual.  All 101 contributors to Chicken Soup for the Soul: Billy Graham & Me (978-1611599053, $24.95) recognize Mr. Graham's unique ability to inspire leaders from diverse disciplines and faiths, all sharing their respect and appreciation for the evangelist's extraordinary influence over the last six decades.

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In addition to stories from every living U.S. President and many other influential world leaders, the book contains tributes from artists and athletes such as Wynonna Judd, Charlie Daniels, Danny Wuerffel and NASCAR driver Jason Allgaeir. Other celebrities who share their personal experiences with Mr. Graham include media personalities such as Dan Rather, Larry King, Kyra Phillips and Kathie Lee Gifford, actors Cheryl Ladd and Kevin Sorbo, and model turned entrepreneur Kathy Ireland.

Religious leaders also pay homage to the man they consider a true mentor, with stories from Rick Warren, Joel Osteen, Tim Keller, Mark Batterson, Jud Wilhite and Miles McPherson. Even those of other faiths, such as Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein, Cardinal Timothy Dolan and South African activist Ela Gandhi, emphasize Billy Graham's spiritual influence around the world. Finally, Mr. Graham's own family and friends honor him for his authenticity, with stories from daughters Anne and Ruth, sister Jean Ford and lifelong ministry partner Cliff Barrows.

Common themes throughout the 101 stories emphasize Mr. Graham's integrity and humility. He is revealed to be a man loving and accepting of all, with a genuine faith from which he draws peace, strength and hope that he is able to share with others. His role as a culture changer is also clearly evident, with contributors such as Bernice King and John Lewis lauding Mr. Graham's commitment to civil rights and racial equality.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Billy Graham & Me will be in stores everywhere Feb. 12. Chicken Soup for the Soul is making a contribution to support the ongoing ministry of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.

Chicken Soup for the Soul Publishing, LLC, publishes the famous Chicken Soup for the Soul book series, which is distributed through Simon & Schuster, Inc. In 2007, USA Today named Chicken Soup for the Soul one of the five most memorable books in the last quarter century. Since 1993, more than 100 million books in the series have been sold in the United States and Canada alone. Chicken Soup for the Soul titles have been sold in more than 100 additional countries and translated into more than 40 languages. The company is currently implementing a plan to expand into all media, including TV shows and a major motion picture, and is also developing a digital presence for life improvement, emotional support, inspiration, and wellness. Chicken Soup for the Soul Foods, a joint venture with Daymon Worldwide Inc., will start rolling out its line of delicious, nutritious comfort foods in Spring 2013. Chicken Soup for the Soul Publishing also licenses the right to use its famous brand to high-quality licensees. For more information visit www.chickensoup.com.

Note to Editors: For more information, please visit www.alrcnewskitchen.com/chickensoup, or to arrange an interview with book editors, contributors or with Billy Graham spokesman A. Larry Ross, please contact Melany Ethridge at 972.267.1111 or Melany@alarryross.com.

FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT:
A. Larry Ross Communications
Melany Ethridge 972.267.1111
melany@alarryross.com

SOURCE Chicken Soup for the Soul