Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Like To Laugh?
It was soon after The Traveler's Gift was released that I began hearing what I now consider to be my most asked question . . .
As the book took on a life of it's own, "the question" seemed to do the same. Through the publication of subsequent books, DVD's, and CD packages, "the question" took on new forms, but it's essence was the same. But when The Noticer came out last May, I was deluged with "the question" and knew it was time to provide a decent answer.
It was never that I didn't have any answer—I just never had a good one.
"The question" was flattering and humbling at the same time. It let me know that folks somehow appreciated the fact that I continue working hard to learn and understand principles that, if applied, can create the lives we desire for our families. But again, as honored as I was every time I was asked, I never knew the answer.
"How can I get my teenager to read your books?"
That's how it started.
Then, "What do I say to encourage my husband to read these books?"; Or "My wife needs this, but there is not a chance she'll read it. Why? Because she doesn't like 'this kind of stuff'."
There is not a day that goes by in my life now that I don't hear some version of this refrain. Often, personal information is quietly added. I hear quick, desperate little stories about depression or addictions or unforgiving spirits or fears or infidelities or financial disasters or ... well, you name it. To be quite honest, I often hear these stories and cry inside. I know for a fact—
these people might not need my books,
but they need somebody's books!
But even knowing that ... now we're back to the same old question: How do you get someone to read something—that they refuse to read—even though we know they'd actually like it if they ever started reading?
Enter Return to Sawyerton Springs.
I started writing funny stories about my childhood and hometown years ago. At one point, I even self-published a few of them in a volume that sold . . . oohhhh, about seventeen copies!
Though very few people knew the book existed, those who read the stories were enthusiastic about them.
Even my wife, Polly, said, "This is some of your best writing—definitely the funniest—don't worry, God is not through with this idea yet!"
About a year ago, Mark Victor Hansen (creator of the Chicken Soup for the Soul series) asked me to produce something different for them. "Can you create an easy to read novel," he asked, "that contains your trademark lessons, but is laugh-out-loud funny?"
My reply? "Mark, I've already begun!"
So, I took some of my old stories, wrote a lot more stories, and fashioned transitions and connections in order to create a novel about my hometown. In this book, I believe you will laugh remembering the confusion of being a kid in a world run by adults, you'll relive the experiences you had with crazy neighbors, and feel an appreciation for simpler times. I've also included a running report on what's happening in Sawyerton Springs today.
I am proud of this book. Without a doubt, it is the funniest thing I have ever written. And for those of you who enjoy "significant content", you will spot the principles and messages scattered throughout.
But here's the deal . . . the lessons are subtle. Intentionally. My hope is that you will enjoy this new book as much as any of my others, but Return To Sawyerton Springs was written with a larger picture in my mind . . . I want this book to be a bridge people can use to connect friends and family to principles that can change their lives.
What if, I wondered, I could create a book that was laugh-out-loud funny right from the first chapter? What if the average reader didn't recognize this book as "self-help" or "inspirational"? If the average person loves Return To Sawyerton Springs, will they then read The Noticer or The Traveler's Gift?
That is my "agenda"—certainly not a hidden one, because I just told you all about it!
Look, if you just want to read one of my books, I sincerely appreciate that! This new one has just been released and is already in bookstores or you can link to Amazon from here . But if you really want a person you love to read a book that will change their life and they refuse, this particular book is a tool created especially for you! Simply give them Return To Sawyerton Springs and tell them it is funny. That's all.
Then, when they laugh at the baseball story (chapter 1), remember being punished for something someone else did (chapter 4), or shake their head in amazement at how we must have all grown up in the "same hometown" (every chapter), your friend or loved one will be much more willing to read something else by that Andy Andrews guy!
One more thing ... I am convinced that very few media pieces today—movies, television programs, music, or books—are created with a broad family demographic. Everyone seems to try hard to dial into that narrow group of people who make up the buying public for their product. Subsequently, there are very few things that a family can enjoy together! Children don’t like what the adults want to watch, listen to, or read and vice versa. Gone are the days of The Andy Griffith Show when the whole family would excitedly settle down and enjoy something together.
I have created Return to Sawyerton Springs with your family in mind—so here is my challenge: Can you create fifteen minutes every evening for thirty days? There are thirty short chapters in this book. Can Mom or Dad or one of the older children read aloud to the family every evening for thirty days? Fifteen minutes a night with no television, no stereo, no texting, no computer games ... Just you and your family laughing, thinking, talking—together! What have you got to lose? You may drag them into the den the first couple of nights, but I promise they will quickly begin to look forward to the time with you.
And they will remember it forever!!
There is a Reader's Guide in the back, so it's perfect for discussions with your family or book club. Lets have fun with this one! It's time to laugh!
Your friend,
Andy
49 Comments
1. Michael Ray:
September 8, 2009 @ 10:32 AM
"Funny you should write about 'The Question.' We made our 15 year old daughter read three books this summer, two of which were yours (The Young Traveler's Gift and The Noticer).
I picked up Return to Sawyerton Springs last week and loved it. It reminded me a lot of Phillip Gulley's Harmony series in that the reader can easily identify with the characters and events you describe.
While I understand that the book might be an introduction to the concepts you write and teach elsewhere, Borders has stocked the book in the 'self help' section. I almost didn't find the book. It would seem better suited in the inspiration section.
But it was a fun read and I wondered if there might be more tales from Sawyerton Springs to follow?"
2. Jim "Gymbeaux" Brown:
September 9, 2009 @ 8:24 PM
"Andy,
I did not have that problem. We listened to the Traveler's Gift in my car on road trips (my wife and I).
When I finished reading The Noticer, I gave it to my wife who read it the same day. To my surprise, she gave it to my nearest daughter (distance) and she too read it.
The BIG question I have regards Island of Saints, IS IT TRUE? Sure seems like it to me. Would make a fantastic movie on the Hallmark Channel.
Gymbeaux"
3. Rhonda:
September 9, 2009 @ 8:43 PM
"Andy, I bought Return to Sawyerton Springs last week and can't wait to read it. I passed it along first to my mom who is resting and recuperating from a stay in the hospital.
I too want to know...Is the story of Island of Saints true? Loved the story."
4. Yvonne Johnson:
September 9, 2009 @ 8:48 PM
"That is too funny! I really want the whole book read aloud by Andy!"
5. Suzanne:
September 9, 2009 @ 8:53 PM
"I have a bookclub for 6th-8th graders and they read three of your books. My 8th graders are getting ready to read Island of Saints and can't wait! Your books are some of the first that they choose from their list. Thank you for making my job so easy and for creating wonderful topics of discussion!"
6. Andy Andrews:
September 9, 2009 @ 8:59 PM
"Hey!
Just so you know...yes, I'd estimate that 80% of Island of Saints is true. All the numbers, dates, and most of the people are real. Names changed, of course. 20% or so I created for continuity or story line.
As far as Return To Sawyerton Springs...I give that a "high truth mark" too!
Glad you are enjoying them!
AA"
7. gg&mg:
September 9, 2009 @ 9:00 PM
"Have not gotten the book yet, but the ballgame story better be in there! I laughed so hard when I first read it, and can laugh just thinking of that story!"
8. Andy Andrews:
September 9, 2009 @ 9:04 PM
"gg&mg...
I'm glad you liked it so much. That is the first chapter!!!
AA"
9. Tami Libecap:
September 9, 2009 @ 9:17 PM
"On a nine hour road trip this past weekend I finished reading The Noticer, my husband finished listening to The Noticer and our 13 year old son listened to chapters 1-6...so we're already hooked as a family. We are so grateful that you focus on providing life-changing books for families. Our son did a book report on Sawyerton Springs in 5th grade - it's still his favorite book. He'll be thrilled to know about your new release since his reading requirements have increased! Return to Sawyerton Springs is like we're each receiving a package of seeds! Thank you Andy! The Libecaps in South Carolina"
10. Rosemary Grote:
September 9, 2009 @ 9:21 PM
"I am now reading "Return to Sawyerton
Springs". I am enjoying it very much. I find myself laughing out loud. I can also picture the town and the citizens in my mind while I read it."
11. Robin Wood:
September 9, 2009 @ 9:53 PM
"Hi Andy. I am a member at Shades in Birmingham,where I first heard you speak. Since then, I have bought hundreds of dollars of your books and tapes for friends and people who are going through different crisis in their lives or just as gifts. My husband and I love listening to your books on tape - there is nothing like hearing your voice - your characters voices just make it come to life. So far, I have given 15 copies of The Noticer to friends. Last yr, we gave your Christmas story on socks, along with a pair of socks, to everyone our family gives gifts to. What a wonderful lesson and blessing it was to all. I want to thank you for being such a great part of my life - when we don't even know each other. I would love for you to come back to Shades so I could thank you in person and give you a hug! Please let me know if you plan to put this new book out on tape and when? Does it have the same stories that are on your other tape? Take care and God bless you.
Robin"
12. Myron Remington:
September 9, 2009 @ 10:11 PM
"Thanks for getting Brent Burns out in public again! I still have some of his albums and thoroughly enjoy them. (If that wasn't Brent singing, then you found his voice twin.)"
13. Connie B.:
September 9, 2009 @ 10:21 PM
"The first I knew of you, Andy, was when I attended the Gaither Praise Gathering in Indianapolis several years ago. I cannot tell you what a delight it was to hear you tell your stories--from "under the bridge" to "the new baseball coach" and beyond! I laughed until I cried--a LOT of tears. And I thought it wonderful that you "got" many, many stiff, stuffy, old-fashined church folks. I thoroughly enjoyed watching their reactions. Your appearance with the Gaither crew ranks right up there in my book, along with Michael W. Smith accompanying Amy Grant upon her return to the Christian stage. Your books have been a blessing--and a challenge--to me and many others. I've loaned all of them so many times that I've had to buy a new complete set! Keep writing! God bless you and your lovely family!
By the way . . . I saw Phillip Gulley mentioned in the first posting. He's from my home state of Indiana--a good man."
14. Connie B.:
September 9, 2009 @ 10:23 PM
"And I'll certainly be purchasing "Return to Sawyerton Springs!""
15. Thomas E. Dobyns:
September 9, 2009 @ 10:31 PM
"Andy,
I have a copy of the original "Tales from Sawerton Springs" and I thought it was very funny. Are the stories in "Return ..." the same or new ones?
PS: I need to send you a personal emai. Is there a email Address that I can send it too?
God Bless you for all the joy, happiness and knowledge that you have brought and will continue to bring into mine and other peoples lives."
16. Judy:
September 9, 2009 @ 10:41 PM
"Can't wait to get Return to Sawyerton Springs, but I'd love to have the audio version too. We enjoy listening to your books as we travel. Would really love to see a movie version of Island of Saints - is this in the works? Also, enjoyed the Noticer too, just passed my copy along to a friend. You've touched many lives and influenced so many souls!"
17. Harold Clements:
September 9, 2009 @ 11:04 PM
"Andy, Since we as a family first saw you in Birmingham at Century Plaza Mall and heard your comedy, I have been a fan. Imagine my surprise when I am in BAM and see "The Noticer." I was prepared for AA humor, "poke you eye in", but the first chapter hooked me and I could not put it down. It was trully an inspirational book and I could not wait until I could share it with someone, anyone. I then had to have "The Traveler's Gift." Again I am inspired by the comedian who is now making such a profound difference in my life and the lives of those I love. I enjoyed listening to you tell the story of your baseball team. Tomorrow I am off to purchase "Return to Sawyerton Springs" Thanks again for your humor and inspiration. HC"
18. desley:
September 9, 2009 @ 11:14 PM
"Andy, I want to thank you for your wonderful books...Island of Saints was passed amoungst several 13 year old boys for several months. My son, now 15, has decided that he is a "Noticer" and has loaned that book out so much that I've not yet read it! He has read Travelers Gift and Mastering the Seven Decisions. By the way, I would not describe him as an avid reader, but he is an avid Andy Andrews fan!"
19. Vivian Miller:
September 10, 2009 @ 12:41 AM
"I have bought several 7 Decisions DVDs (and all your books)and given them to everyone from my banker to friends adopting children - who have all bought their own to share with others. God has blessed you with a wonderful gift. Thank you for making the choice to activate it!"
20. Rick VanDermyden:
September 10, 2009 @ 1:07 AM
"Andy-
I guess I am privileged to have one of the original 17 copies! Our family loves it and the "Rocking Chair Classics" CD that contains some of those stories is a road trip favorite for us. To my knowledge, we own everything you have produced including the out of print "Storms of Perfection" series. All of it has had a tremendous positive influence on our family philosophies so I can thank you enough for continuing to bring the good stuff! One of my favorites is you reading "Baseball" on the live Not Normal DVD. Everyone on this post should endeavor to own the entire Andy Andrews library in my opinion.
Thanks for all you do and keep it up!
Rick"
21. Danny:
September 10, 2009 @ 7:48 AM
"Andy;
I'm a middle school teacher and read "The Travelers Gift" aloud to my classes last year. The kids thoroughly enjoyed it, and I hope took something away from it to help guide their young lives. I purchased a book written by you in your earlier days about Sawyerton Springs. Haven't read through it yet, but will certainly plan to purchase the new one. Also, I have my youngest son, a freshman, reading "The Lost Choice." Actually, he plans to read it, then write to you as a class project. Be looking for a note!"
22. Andy Andrews:
September 10, 2009 @ 9:22 AM
"Hi Everyone!
I love reading your responses! Thanks for taking the time. Let me see if I can answer some of the questions...
Yes, Island of Saints has been optioned as a movie. As you know, that can take a very long time, so I don't pay too much attention to that process. It is all in the beginning stages anyway. It is exciting tho...
Yes, some of the stories in the old Sawyerton Springs book that I self published years ago are in Return To Sawyerton Springs. Most have been rewritten and connected to others to form this "novel" (rather than a short story book). I wrote a LOT MORE stories to complete this and I really think you'll like it!
Danny, thanks for reading Traveler's Gift to your students. I really believe it will make a difference in their lives. And I can't wait to get the note from your son!
Anyone who needs to email me privately can always reach me by way of Andy@AndyAndrews.com.
Thanks again guys!"
23. Rich Tiller:
September 10, 2009 @ 9:25 AM
"Andy,
I've always loved your books. As an 'incentive,' I have paid my kids to read books including your Young Traveler's Gift - and it worked! The rule is that we have to sit down and discuss each chapter so I know they 'get it.' Can't wait to get Return to Sawyerton Springs.
Thanks for making a difference for so many people!!"
24. Kathryn Murtha:
September 10, 2009 @ 9:28 AM
"Hi Andy,
I'm PSYCHED! Another book by my favorite author and storyteller. I'm looking forward to buying it and sharing it with my 2 young nephews next week, as I enjoy a week of spoiling them!
Will you be releasing this in an audio version? I'm wearing out your other books on CD!
Keep up the great work, and thanks for starting my day out with great news!
Kathryn"
25. Glen Kaiser:
September 10, 2009 @ 9:48 AM
"Hey Andy,
I'm headed out the door to get this book - been busy and wasn't aware it was out...........
God bless you - you do make a difference and I am grateful for you and the talent God gave you!
Take care - GK"
26. Ann:
September 10, 2009 @ 10:40 AM
"Hi Andy,
I can't believe I have missed this one! Thanks for all you do to communicate what is or can be good in our world. I'm looking forward to reading Return to Sawyerton Springs."
27. Bob Eilers:
September 10, 2009 @ 10:59 AM
"Andy,
I want to thank you for the wonderful books you have written.
Thank You and God bless you and your family
Bob Eilers"
28. Beverley Brown:
September 10, 2009 @ 11:41 AM
"I just listened to you read the first chapter of "Return to Sawyerton Springs." The tears are running down my face. I laughed so hard. I used to watch you on Nick @ Nite or VH-1 when they showed comic clips. Years later, I stumbled across you on PBS late at night when I couldn't sleep. I've been following you ever since. And I have a hint for you on how to get a kid to read your book: just leave it laying out or treat it like contraband. The nosy little buggers won't be able to leave it alone! I asked my 12 year old niece to read Traveler's Gift. She really liked it and passed it off to her mother. My 14 year old nephew is next...."
29. Jeanne:
September 10, 2009 @ 12:50 PM
"Andy, for those that cannot read easily (think Grammie at 88 years old) and would LOVE to laugh-out-loud.... Are you going to (or have already) created a CD of this book with all of the stories? Or, how about a reading on DVD with some nostalgic photos on the screen.
Thanks and I sure look forward to reading this one with our kids; they love your CD Rocking Chair Classics! Have a great day Andy! And, thanks."
30. Joyce Glazier:
September 10, 2009 @ 1:13 PM
"Jsut listened to the audio clip from Return to Sawyerton Springs.
Had to close me office door so I would not disturb others with my laughing.
Have ordered my copy which I will definately share with my 21 and 22 year old children.
They both enjoyed the Traveler's Gift and The Noticer.
Keep writing, Andy!"
31. Sally Hamby:
September 10, 2009 @ 2:52 PM
"I am going to buy Sayerton today.I loved The Noticer, but Traveler's Gift help redirect my business life. Today was the 23 meeting of Take it to the next level Round Table for my Realtor clients. I no longer give widgets--pens, note pads, ect. I give education in the things that make their business life better or easier or more successful. For the 23rd month I mentioned Travelers Gift and most of the agents have read it now and agree it is great. I am like Columbus. I can see what lies ahead and what I want to be ahead.
Thanks for the inspiration.
Sally W. Hamby
Pine State Mortgage
Atlanta"
32. Pamela Johnson:
September 10, 2009 @ 4:43 PM
"I'm in . I love the idea. I am obsessed with the Traveler's Gift and have read it four times. My children know that whenever we go on a trip or when they are stuck with me in a car for over 2 hours, I am reading to them the Traveler's Gift. It is great because there is no escape. I know they are listening because my 11 year old comedian told me after 2 hours of homework and still another hour to go - "I must push on like Andy Andrews". He really said Andy Anderson but I know what he meant. So the moral is once you get them there and they begin to listen their sweet spongy brains will absorb. So does mine! Thanks Andy.
Pamela"
33. Tish:
September 10, 2009 @ 6:08 PM
"Andy,
I laughed out loud as I listened to the first chapter. I'll be picking up my copy of "Return to Sawyerton Springs" this weekend, and I can hardly wait! God gave you an incredible talent. Thank you so much for sharing it with us!"
34. Laura Plate:
September 10, 2009 @ 6:38 PM
"This is too funny. I can't wait to get this book. I love The Noticer and The Traveler's Gift. Thanks for all you do!!!"
35. Todd Rainsberger, PhD:
September 10, 2009 @ 9:09 PM
"One of the stories from this book was read by Andy on his comedy CD, "My Life So Far." I had occasion to play it in the car for my teen-age nephews, neither of whom had any interest in hearing it. Well, once they got into the story I had to pause it a couple of times because they were laughing so hard. Tears were running down their faces. The story wasn't over when we reached our destination, but they stayed in the car to listen to the end of the story. It's been a couple of years and they still quote parts of the story to each other. These Sawyerton Springs stories are veeery funny and veeery accessible for kids...or for normal humans as well."
36. Kirk:
September 10, 2009 @ 11:46 PM
"The Traveler's Gift is a fantastic read, Island of Saints audio book was awesome! Now listening to the audio version of the Noticer on the drive to work. Andy you are fantastic storyteller. I am very glad to hear the Island of Saints is very much true and look forward to the movie. The 1st chapter of Sawyerton Springs is hilarious, reminds me of my Mom's story. To this day she still chuckles thinking about her childhood neighbor who could not pronounce "R's" So much so, that when it was raining outside, He would say, "It's yeally yaining out theye" Thank you for the life lessons. God Bless you and your gifts you share."
37. Allen Campbell:
September 11, 2009 @ 1:45 AM
"Hi Andy,
Is there an audio version of Return to Sawyerton Springs?
Thanks for all your hard work.
Allen"
38. Rick:
September 11, 2009 @ 10:48 AM
"Andy,
Today is my birtday, and I was just reflecting on a lot of things over the past year. Though it's been a rather "challenging" year, I just wanted to let you know reading
"The Noticer", then buying the audio version and listening to it about 17 times (no kidding) so far, and sharing the book and cd's with family has been one of the most rewarding things over the last year.By the way, after listening to it that many times, I've "noticed a few things myself. However, something that makes me belly laugh every time is when, in the middle of the conversation, Jones corrects Willow Calloway "... and it's just Jones". Of course he mentions how to address him a few times throughout the book .. The timing of that one is so perfect, and so funny!
I"ve also notice that my self-talk has changed dramatically, and "Jones" voice seems to pop up in many instances throughout my day, always making me stop, take a breath, and begin again with a new perspective. It's amazing!
I've turned lots of family, friends, and colleagues onto your books ... they are all great. Plain and Simple ... Thank You for being the person God has put you here to be.
Rick Ramirez"
39. Lora M.:
September 11, 2009 @ 5:05 PM
"Andy:
So excited to see this book out!! I am going to pick it up this weekend- we will take up your challenge and read it in the evenings- I know Samuel and Olivia will just love it! (especially the baseball story!) Hope you are feeling better:)
Lora M."
40. Tish:
September 11, 2009 @ 11:15 PM
"I'm with Allen. I would love to have an audio book read by you!"
41. Alisha Alligood:
September 12, 2009 @ 10:17 PM
"Andy,
I am excited about this book! The baseball story is one of my very favorites!!! I could listen to it over and over again. I have played it for many friends. Can't wait to read the book and hope it will be on audio too. I love to hear you read your stories. You are a master story teller! Thanks for sharing with us. Hello to all!
Alisha"
42. Karen:
September 15, 2009 @ 9:44 AM
"I have recieved so much inspirition from every one of your books. I can't wait to read Return to Sawyerton Springs. I loved the stories on the CD that came with my package order. It really took me back to my childhood."
43. Jan:
September 15, 2009 @ 11:41 AM
"Loved hearing you read this chapter! Having a had a son who played baseball, I was totally cracking up laughing as I listened... it was all so true! Can't wait to buy the book and read the rest... but would much rather hear you read it. Any chance you'll do an audio version soon? Thanks for all the great reads! I constantly promote "The Young Traveler's Gift" to friends and co-workers with young teens."
44. angie bradley:
September 15, 2009 @ 7:24 PM
"Hi Andy,
Hope you read this - I knew your parents well. My grandparents lived right down the street from your parents - I went to your parent's home many times with my Bigmama, to the beauty shop, etc. My Mother has been so excited - she remembers your parents with such fondness. I still go to Andalusia to visit friends and my Mother has a home there. Just ordered your new book.
Angie Bradley
theangiebradley@yahoo.com"
45. John Wischum:
September 16, 2009 @ 9:14 AM
"Andy,
On an unrelated topic...I am sure you are aware there is an editorial in the Wall Street Journal today about Norman Borlaug. The article claims he is mostly unknown in his own country yet he has streets and buildings named after him in foreign countries.
Anyone who has heard you speak knows about Norman Borlaug...but they may not fully appreciate what a special man he was...
You, like he, do make a difference!"
46. Brian Bakken:
September 16, 2009 @ 4:29 PM
"Andy
Please add a WARNING for Return To Sawyerton Springs.
Should read "caution when reading this book on a aircraft the reader may be a distraction to others"
I tried to act right and not laugh out loud and cary on but was unsuccessful! The stewardess had to come by and ask what I was reading that was so funny and wrote down the title.
I am sorry if your book will now be banned from Delta airlines.
New questions at security might be , do you have fluids or gels or books from Andy Andrews ?
Brian B"
47. Carl derr Sr:
September 18, 2009 @ 10:31 AM
"Andy,I have been trying to reach you for some time.I have emailed you several time with no response.I will try again. I am trying to get a copy of one of your stories that you wrote for a country western mag about agiant mouse[kangaroo] that got loose in a service station.It was one of the funniest I have ever read.If you can locate it I would be forever gratefull.thank you,carl."
48. william eickhoff:
September 21, 2009 @ 6:05 PM
"Andy, I just read an obituary in Sports Illiustrated Sept. 17? for Norman Borlaug. Check it out. He wrestled in college and he said that gave him the courage to try anything.
I first heard your tapes in Amway through Pronet. You were always my favorite. If I'm trying to secure you as a speaker to share the stage with John Maxwell, do I have to go through your agent? Thanx for all you do. Bill"
49. Sister:
September 27, 2009 @ 10:56 PM
"Hey there Andy,
Hope you enjoyed the Bama game, I know BB and LB really wanted to be there too. Just listened to your reading of the first chapter of the new book--enjoyed it more than I can say. I laughed until my belly hurt!! I am going to take a copy to work and share it with my fellow nurses--we all need to laugh. Stay well, see you soon, God Bless!
Sister Lisa"