Beaufort Books Secures Deal to

Publish Once Feared Historical Novel The Jewel of Medina

(New York, NY) September 5, 2008 -- Beaufort Books is pleased to announce that it has signed a two book deal with author Sherry Jones for the North American publication rights for The Jewel of Medina, to be released in October, with the sequel to follow next year. The public controversy over The Jewel of Medina, a historical fiction novel of the love story between the Prophet Mohammed and his favorite wife A'isha, began in July when its previous publisher, Random House, made its decision to terminate the book.

Says author Sherry Jones, "I had hoped to find an independent publisher with gumption and verve that would treat me as a partner in the publishing process, and that wouldn't be spooked by controversy, recognizing it as a stimulus for discussion of my books' themes of women's empowerment, peace, and hope." Jones adds, "With its track record of support for free speech and expression, Beaufort Books offers the perfect home for The Jewel of Medina and its sequel."

Natasha Kern, Sherry Jones's agent, comments, "In selecting Beaufort, we chose an editor and publisher who are passionate about bringing this novel to readers and shared our vision for this book. All those who are interested can soon read the book and discover what a wonderful and inspiring woman A'isha was, and enjoy how beautifully told her story is. We are excited to have found an experienced publisher committed to partnering with its writers to achieve all that is possible for each book."

Beaufort President Eric Kampmann says, "We are building a great team to bring The Jewel of Medina to the audience it deserves to have. Everyone at Beaufort is proud to be associated with this ground breaking novel."

Sherry Jones will be the featured speaker on the freedom of speech panel at the Norwegian Foundation for Investigative Journalism's 5th Global Investigative Journalism Conference being held in Lillehammer, Norway from September 10 to 14.

The Jewel of Medina will be available from Beaufort Books October 2008.