It’s been over ten years since Torn came out, and I never could have predicted how many people would embrace it. I’ve received so many powerful messages from readers who tell me that it made them feel seen and understood, or that it changed their attitude toward LGBTQ people, or that it helped heal divisions in their family or church.
I am so, so honored and humbled by these messages. I certainly didn’t do anything to deserve the kind words, but I am beyond grateful that God put me in a position to be able to share something helpful in this polarizing time.
Of course, over the last decade-plus, a lot of things have changed, and I’ve been eagerly hoping for an opportunity to revise Torn, bringing it up to date and answering some of the questions people have asked since its initial release.
Finally, I’ve had that opportunity!
Over the last few months, I’ve been hard at work on a brand-new, updated and expanded second edition of Torn. It’s got lots of new and updated content and a fresh new cover:
So what’s new? Well, among other things:
- new stories I’ve never shared publicly before;
- updated terminology, statistics, and references;
- a closer look at the ex-gay movement and its (partial) demise;
- more on gender identity and the debates raging in today’s culture;
- new practical tips on how to handle ongoing division in your church or family;
- a completely rewritten conclusion, addressing where things are today;
- and more!
The new edition will be out May 14, 2024, but it’s available for preorder now!
FAQ:
Q. If I already own Torn, is it worth getting the second edition?
A. Well, I certainly think so! I’ve put a lot of new content in the new edition. To me, this new one will be the definitive edition of Torn. It addresses a number of things I’ve always wished the original could have addressed, including things that happened after the initial publication. And you can always give the old copy to a friend or donate it to your church or local library.
Q. If I don’t own Torn but I want to read it, should I wait for the new edition or go ahead and buy the original?
A. If the new edition won’t be available for months but it would be helpful to have a resource now for you or your family, I say go ahead and get the one that’s available. I’m still very proud of that one, and I don’t want you to have to wait to be able to get the support you need.
Q. What’s the advantage of preordering the book instead of just waiting for it to come out and buying it then?
A. Preordering ensures you’ll be among the first to get the new book, and if you’re forgetful like me, it helps make sure you don’t forget about it when it comes out. Other than that, it may not make much difference for you either way. But for authors, there’s a pretty big difference: Preordering helps convince booksellers that there’s demand for a particular book, which leads to having more copies stocked and giving the book greater attention. Since the cost to you is the same either way (you’re generally not charged until the book actually ships), it makes sense to preorder books that you’re looking forward to as a means of supporting those authors. But honestly, I’m just happy to get a message out there however I can!
