InterVarsity Press is a widely respected publisher of Christian themed books, so it struck us as rather amazing when we found a new edition of ex-gay guru Richard Cohen’s book Gay Children, Straight Parents: A Plan For Family Healing on their upcoming book list for July 2007. While some may not appreciate the difference, one can normally expect a line between Cohen’s work and that from a traditional, solid publisher like IVP. Perhaps this is why Cohen normally self-publishes.
However, when we checked back to write this story on the release, there was no sign of the book on the IVP site. Even Cohen’s site, which for a time reflected the new version listed at IVP, now shows the older version published by his International Healing Foundation. The only evidence left of the IVP edition is this Amazon link, which still shows a July availability date, but offers only pre-orders.
We contacted IVP about a week ago to ask what happened, but they did not reply. We can only hope that they realized that their reputation would suffer if they published something from the likes of Cohen and pulled the book. If not, they could end up not only damaging their own reputation, but conveying undue legitimacy to Cohen and his bizarre ideas.
As I’m sure you’re aware, IVP publishes many ex-gay and anti-gay titles like A Parent’s Guide to Preventing Homosexuality, Coming Out of Homosexuality, and Marriage on Trial: The Case Against Same-Sex Marriage and Parenting. It’s amazing that IVP apparently doesn’t believe Cohen’s book can reach the high standards its other books have met.
Not to go off-topic, but it is book related. Has anyone seen this bizarre, exgay children’s book? You can find it here: https://dormitem.com/blog/193
I don’t understand why the age group it is addressing would need this info.
@Norm!
As I said, the distinction may not be clear to some, but I would contend there is a difference. I may disagree with the premise behind those other titles (and I do) but I doubt IVP has to worry that even “don’t question me” Nicolosi will be wielding tennis racquet’s or cuddling on Comedy Central anytime soon 😉
For IVP to publish Cohen’s book would allow him to leech credibility in certain circles that I don’t think he has earned, and certainly does not deserve.
Aaron:
That isn’t as off-topic as you think. I’m almost positive that’s Cohen’s “Children’s” book “Alfie’s Home.” Yeah, it definitely pushes the envelope with what you can show to kids. Could you imagine being read THAT at bedtime? Aside from obliterating any complexities of the consequences of child molestation, marrital problems are simplified as well.
This pic was quite a shocker. And I’ve seen some strange things in my short time on this earth.
Emily,
You’re Right. It is Alfie’s Home
I think I’m going to throw up.
Thanks Boxturtle. The book is too bizarre. It is almost spoof-like, but knowing it is Richard Cohen’s book makes more sense.
I can’t imagine reading something like this to any kid, and frankly the graphics and words seem approriate to a five year old. I can understand a book about watching for molestation, but exgay stuff? And those graphics are so ridiculous.
Yes, that hideous old thing… don’t know if any current (sic) edition contains the same endorsements as the originals.
“Richard Cohen has hit upon the essential causal and curative themes of the homosexual condition. Many of my adult clients would not have needed psychotherapy today if their parents had read Alfie’s Home.” Joseph Nicolosi
And, I think, there was one from that reknowed childhood development expert Judith Reisman.
At least it provides a handy reference for anyone questioning my childhood — I just have to say “Mine was the complete opposite to the one that Cohen has invented here”.