Dr. Gary R. Shiplett is a retired United Methodist pastor and author of six books and shorter works including a hymn on baptism published by the Hymn Society of America.. His first four books are on religion. His recent book, The Crystal Bell, is his first novel, and he dreamed it. He holds a Doctor’s Degree in Adult Education and Training from Indiana University, a Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary in NT Biblical Studies, and an undergraduate degree in psychology and religion from Florida Southern College. He has taught at both the college and seminary levels. A prolific writer, his latest book, BEFORE YOU PRAY: ASSUMPTIONS ABOUT PRAYER, will be released this fall.