The health of bestselling author Sarah Young is “rapidly failing,” a spokesperson for Thomas Nelson confirmed to PW. Young’s devotionals, including Jesus Calling, Jesus Always, and an array of other Jesus Calling-branded books, have sold over 45 million units, according to Nelson.
Though she is known as being a reclusive author, Young spoke of her health issues to PW in 2012, attributing the inspiration behind her writing to her chronic illnesses and suffering.
Television personality and author Kathie Lee Gifford referred to Young’s longtime health issues on social media on August 23, requesting prayers. “She is struggling right now and needs prayer,” Gifford wrote. “She has been battling Lyme disease for years, very courageously and quietly.”
Originally published in October 2004, Young's debut title Jesus Calling has been translated into 30 languages. Its follow-up Jesus Always, which is also a 365-day devotional, was released in October 2016. Today, Young's Jesus Calling brand at Thomas Nelson includes children’s devotionals, Bible storybooks, journals, seasonal books, as well 2021’s bestselling 365-day devotional, Jesus Listens. Other products include a Jesus Calling television show, magazine, podcast, and an app.
Marking the sales milestone of 45 million units in July, Michael Aulisio, v-p and publisher of the Jesus Calling brand at Thomas Nelson, said in a press release: “Jesus Calling has connected with people from all walks of life in an extremely unique and truly unparalleled way.” He added, “While the inspiration, faith, and hope that Jesus Calling delivers is impossible to measure, these massive sales figures confirm the tremendous impact of the Jesus Calling message.”
The next title by Young, Jesus Listens—for Advent and Christmas, with Full Scriptures: Prayers for the Season, publishes on October 3.
PW is following this story and will update it accordingly.
Update 9/2/2023: Sarah Young Dies at 77. Read more here.
