About the Author
Michael Phillips, born in 1946 in Arcata, California, is a bestselling American author whose life and work have been profoundly shaped by his Christian faith. The son of Denver Phillips, a WWII Air Corps veteran, and Eloise, Michael spent his formative years in the small university town that would later play a significant role in his spiritual and professional journey.
As a young man, Phillips pursued an eclectic education at Humboldt State College, where he excelled in both athletics and academics. His diverse interests led him to study Physics, Math, and Languages, laying a foundation for the multifaceted career that would follow. Despite his scientific leanings, Phillips' upbringing in a deeply Protestant household would ultimately guide him towards a life devoted to faith and literature.
A Spiritual Awakening
It wasn't until his twenties that Phillips experienced a profound spiritual awakening. While in Germany in 1969, he encountered the writings of Thomas Kelly, a Quaker author whose words ignited in Phillips a fervent desire to deepen his relationship with Jesus Christ. This pivotal moment set him on a path of intense spiritual exploration and prayer, seeking divine guidance for his life's purpose.
During this period of reflection, Phillips immersed himself in religious literature, each book further solidifying his faith and shaping his understanding of how to live a godly life. It was through this journey of self-discovery that he came to a startling realization: his calling lay in the world of publishing, where he could use his gift for writing to open the eyes of both believers and non-believers to the profound truths of God.
A Partnership in Faith and Life
In his pursuit of this calling, Phillips found an invaluable partner in Judy Carter. Born in 1949 to WWII veterans and sharing deep Quaker roots, Judy understood and supported Michael's spiritual struggles and aspirations. Together, they navigated the challenges of being young Christians in an era when faith was often met with social stigma.
Their shared vision led them to marry in 1971 and embark on a journey that would see them become influential figures in the Christian community. One of their first ventures was the establishment of the One Way Book Shop, a humble enterprise that grew to become a cornerstone of Christian literature in Humboldt County.
From Physics to Faith
Phillips' transition from a budding physicist to a Christian author and educator was gradual but purposeful. His early career saw him exploring the realms of physics and research, but he eventually found his true calling in teaching and missionary work. This shift in focus allowed him to fully embrace his role as a voice for Christian values in literature.
The George MacDonald Revival
Perhaps Phillips' most significant contribution to the literary world has been his tireless efforts to revive interest in George MacDonald, a 19th-century Scottish author. Discovering MacDonald's works in the 1970s, Phillips was deeply moved by the Victorian writer's insights but dismayed to find that much of his fiction had become inaccessible to modern readers.
Determined to prevent MacDonald's profound spiritual and literary legacy from fading into obscurity, Phillips embarked on a mission to reintroduce the author's works to a contemporary audience. This labor of love involved carefully editing and modernizing MacDonald's texts, making them more accessible while preserving their essential wisdom and beauty.
A Literary Legacy
Over the course of more than two decades, Phillips not only breathed new life into MacDonald's classics but also produced original works that built upon the Scottish author's themes and ideas. His dedication to this cause has ensured that MacDonald's timeless insights continue to inspire and challenge readers in the modern era.
Alongside his work on MacDonald, Phillips has authored dozens of his own fiction and non-fiction books, each infused with the spiritual values he believes are crucial in contemporary literature. His novels, such as "The Heather Hills of Stonewycke" and "Flight from Stonewycke," explore themes of forgiveness, inner turmoil, and the search for true happiness through a Christian lens.
A Continuing Journey
Today, Michael Phillips and Judy stand as prominent figures in the global Christian community, their lives a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, and the written word. Through his numerous books and his efforts to preserve the legacy of George MacDonald, Phillips continues to touch the lives of readers around the world, inspiring them to explore the depths of their own faith and understanding.
As an author, editor, and spiritual guide, Michael Phillips has created a lasting impact on Christian literature, bridging the gap between classic and contemporary spiritual writings. His journey from a small California town to international recognition serves as an inspiring example of how one person's dedication to their faith and calling can ripple out to influence countless lives.