Contact: Amy Kerr, Publicist, 615-902-1722, akerr@thomasnelson.com; www.tommynelson.com

NASHVILLE, Jan. 10, 2012 /Christian Newswire/ -- Four-year-old Colton Burpo's journey to heaven and back has reached over six million people in his story's various formats. In addition to top rankings on several bestseller lists, the children's book depicting Colton's trip, "Heaven Is for Real for Kids," has hit a new benchmark: #1 on the children's picture books list of the "New York Times" Best Seller List.

"It is a simple and pure message from the experience of a four year old child: 'Jesus really loves children. And He loves You!' " says Laura Minchew, Senior Vice President of Specialty Publishing at Thomas Nelson. "What a delight to see this message resonating with so many families."

While the original trade book "Heaven Is for Real" was narrated by Colton's father Todd, "Heaven Is for Real for Kids" shows children what heaven is like through the eyes of young Colton Burpo. When he was nearly four years old, Colton experienced a burst appendix; it was during his emergency surgery that Colton visited heaven.  Aided by illustrator Wilson Ong, Colton vividly shows children what he saw in heaven and shares an important message: Jesus really, really loves children. The book features a letter to parents and a Q&A section that answers questions kids frequently have when they finish Colton's story. In December 2011, the app "Heaven Is for Real for Kids" released on all Apple platforms.

"Heaven Is for Real for Kids" is one of a trio of new products by the Burpo family released by Thomas Nelson, the world's largest Christian publisher. "Heaven Is for Real" deluxe edition is also available to provide a hardcover, gift-able version of the best-selling trade book. A "Heaven is for Real" DVD-based Conversation Kit features footage of the Burpo family talking about their experiences while offering discussion questions and suggestions for participants.

About the Authors:
Todd Burpo is pastor of Crossroads Wesleyan, a volunteer fireman, and works with a garage door company. His wife, Sonja, is a children's minister, busy pastor's wife, and mom. Colton, an active 12-year-old, has an older sister, Cassie, and a younger brother, Colby.

Tommy Nelson , the children's division of Thomas Nelson, Inc., publishes a wide variety of high quality, enjoyable products that are consistent with the teachings found in the Bible. Tommy Nelson products are designed to expand children's imaginations and nurture their faith while pointing them to a personal relationship with God. For more information, visit www.tommynelson.com.