Novelist Follows Fiction Debut with Philanthropic Initiative

Written by Mike & Paula K. Parker

Forgiveness. Reconciliation. Second chances.
 
Everyone wants to experience these in their lives. 
 

Author and radio personality Chris Coppernoll explores these themes in his debut novel, “Providence.” This well-crafted story gives hope to those who believe they have blown their chance at happiness and love.
 
The novel opens with Jack Clayton struggling over the difficult decision of calling his publisher, Arthur, and telling him that he won’t be writing another book. Many publishers wouldn’t fret over this announcement, but Jack’s last book became a New York Times best seller, elevating his publisher into the big league. Now, Arthur wants Jack to write his memoirs and Jack doesn’t want to open those old wounds. After all, he isn’t someone special; he works in the Campus Missions Office at Providence College. Jack is sure Arthur won’t accept his announcement without a fight; and he is right. Arthur convinces Jack to give it one more try, so Jack opens the door to memories that are as cold and lifeless as the bleak midwinter outside and walks through.
 
Coppernoll is an apt student of the human experience. He has a keen insight into the motivations that drive people to succeed – and the ultimate cost of fame. In “Providence,” Coppernoll proves he is equally adept at translating reality into compelling fiction.
 
Since its release, “Providence” has received much critical acclaim. However, like his lead character, Coppernoll is not content to sit back and dream of royalty checks. He recently established the “Providence Cares” initiative to help raise money for families of children with catastrophic illnesses.
 
“I have good friends with a child in need of a liver transplant,” Coppernoll explains. “I’ve seen firsthand what this family has walked through. They had to raise an exorbitant amount of money over and above what their insurance would pay, and while I would love to say that their experience was unique, it is not. These, and many others like them, are just average Americans that have to become full-time fundraisers to pay for their children’s medical care.
 
“I suggested that if they would gather some of their friends, I would come in and do a reading from the book and sign copies, and all of the proceeds, 100 percent, would go toward the family’s expenses. A social worker at a children’s hospital in Atlanta got wind of it, and she asked if I could do the same thing for three children who need transplants. That’s how it all got started.”
 
“LifeWay Christian Stores opened their doors for the signing,” Coppernoll continued. “They were so gracious, because we weren’t selling anything for them. This was all donations for the families. It is a small thing for me to do, but what an impact it has on these families.”
 
Coppernoll serves as a deacon at The People’s Church in Franklin, Tenn., and is currently working toward a master’s in ministry leadership degree through Rockbridge Seminary. “Providence” is his first novel. For more information about Coppernoll’s book and philanthropic initiative visit his web site at: www.providencebook.com/providencecares.html.

Mike and Paula K. Parker cover entertainment for LifeWay.com from their home in Middle Tennessee. Visit them online at www.wordcrafts.net.

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