CrossBooks author overcomes troubled past to inspire others

Our potential is not dictated by our past. This is the message that Radica Quackenbos wants her readers to take away from her book.

“I found Christ to be hope, peace and assurance that He was there all through my childhood, and only by His Grace did I live,” says Quackenbos, author of In My Father’s Hands, a story of the neglect and abuse she suffered throughout her childhood and into her adult years.

Once she began to open up and share her story in various churches, Quackenbos saw how it gave people courage. In turn, she was encouraged to write a book.

“Having my testimony in written form allows me to place it in the hands of the hurting, often seeing them or hearing from them of how God has set them free by reading it,” she says.

And In My Father’s Hands has reached many readers.

As of November 2011, Quackenbos had sold more than 1,800 copies directly, with more sold online and in stores. Here, she shares how she has effectively gotten the word out about her book.

Radica, about age 4, in her hometown, Veliki Popovic, Serbia.

Make Your Message Relatable

Use the Connections You Have

“I wanted to share my testimony of God’s grace to help others see their potential in Christ Jesus is not limited to the past, and to encourage them to share and use their own testimony for helping others. … My main goal is helping others overcome the past, so I emphasize that God opens doors.”

“My book was already anticipated by the many churches I had previously shared in. They gladly opened the door for a book signing and to share again my testimony. Word-of-mouth by those who read it was most effective and still is.”

Reach Out to Your Target Audience

Use Social Media to Support Your Cause

“I sent copies to pastors, praying over it, and they called for my testimony, knowing many in their church were suffering the same past experiences.”  

“I also set up book signings in local stores, giving them free copies and flyers for their windows. … I posted pictures of book signings on my Facebook page; friends would re-post on their own page, and the word spread.”  

Her Best Advice for Authors

Radica Quackenbos shares her story during a 2011 book signing at the Florida Gospel Music Association annual convention in Wimauma, Fla.

“’Seed’” books for a harvest – giving a free book to an open door is cheap but effective advertisement. Follow up is also important. No contact, no interest. Be patient; it doesn’t happen overnight, although I feel very blessed to be so far along the way so fast.”

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In My Father’s Hands is available through CrossBooks, Family Christian Stores and other online retailers. Quackenbos says she is well on her way to a second edition of the book, and a Serbian translation is in the works so that it can be distributed in her home country.

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