Samford University’s Orlean Beeson School of Education will host New York Times bestselling author Charles Martin for the 11th annual Tom and Marla Corts Distinguished Author Series on April 5.
Beginning at 7 p.m. in Samford’s Brock Recital Hall, Martin will share the one thing he wants his son, a Samford freshman, to know. Pulling from his exploration of biblical truths in his book What If It’s True?: A Storyteller’s Journey With Jesus, Martin will share key moments from the life and ministry of Jesus, as well as key moments from his own journey as a disciple of Christ. In his book, Martin addresses fundamental questions of faith to challenge readers to not just think differently, but live differently.
When asked what inspired him to write What If It’s True?, Martin says, “Pretty simple. If scripture is true, and Jesus really said what scripture says He said (and I believe He did) then who does that make Him, who does that make me and why don’t I live like I believe it?”
Martin hopes that through his journey of exploration readers will experience true belief, freedom and real intimacy with the Father.
Martin is a New York Times bestselling author of 16 novels. One of his novels, The Mountain Between Us, was adapted into a major motion picture by 20th Century Fox in 2017 and another, Long Way Gone, is in the pre-production stage to be made into a film. In addition to: What If It’s True?, Martin is the author of another non-fiction book titled They Turned the World Upside Down. His work has been translated into more than 35 languages in more than 40 countries around the world. He and his wife Christy have been married 28 years and live in Jacksonville, Fla.
Martin will be joined by friend and fellow New York Times bestselling author Patti Callahan Henry. Henry was the 10th anniversary Corts Distinguished Author and will return to introduce Martin and share insights from her new book Once Upon a Wardrobe released in October 2021.
General admission tickets are $25 for the public and complimentary for Samford students and employees. A book signing will follow the presentation. VIP tickets are $75 and include a private reception, special seating, a book by each author and a book signing with Martin and Henry at 5:30 p.m. Prepare to be captivated as Martin and Henry share inspiration that will encourage you to engage your faith in new ways.
The Tom and Marla Corts Distinguished Author Series was established in 2011 to highlight reading and literacy and provide financial support for Samford’s Orlean Beeson School of Education.
Previous speakers include Greg Mortenson, Wendell Berry, Garrison Keillor, Wes Moore, Laura Bush, Parker J. Palmer, Philip Yancey, Eric Motley, Anthony Ray Hinton and Patti Callahan Henry.