Palmer pastor’s book revived through Palin

WASILLA — Perhaps catapulted by its sudden name recognition after appearing in news stories written after Gov. Sarah Palin joined the Republican ticket, local pastor Howard Bess’s book “Pastor, I Am Gay” is selling for more than $500 on Amazon.com

On Tuesday afternoon two copies of the book, both described as “new,” were selling for $524.99 and $525.

Plus, $3.99 shipping.

A user on Ebay is also offering Bess’s book for $300, describing it as the book “reportedly targeted for removal by then Mayor Sarah Palin from Wasilla, Alaska.”

The book is also offered used on Barnes and Noble’s Web site for $525.

Bess’s book made national news stories after a more than 10-year-old controversy involving Palin when she was mayor of Wasilla resurfaced during the media barrage following her vice presidential candidacy announcement.

Reports have speculated “Pastor, I Am Gay” is one of the books Palin took issue with and may have prompted her to ask the Wasilla librarian at the time about removing some books from library shelves.

In an interview Tuesday, Bess said he finds the situation hilarious.

“I just laugh at it,” Bess said.

Bess credits the media for putting the 13-year-old title back on people’s minds, but said he’s not seeing a piece of the $525 pie.

“I’ve heard from all over everywhere,” Bess said. “Everybody’s interested if I get a cut of it.”

“Pastor, I Am Gay” has a long history in the Valley.

Bess said he’s given copies of his book to the Wasilla library multiple times, only to have them disappear each time.

Controversy sprang up around Palin’s term as Wasilla mayor when she asked then librarian Mary Ellen Emmons how she would feel about removing some books from the library.

Emmons expressed her disapproval, and there is no evidence any books were ever banned.

The dust-up between Palin and the library may be old news in the Valley, but when national media descended on Wasilla to learn about Republican presidential candidate John McCain’s pick of running mate, the issue was reborn.

“It’s a book that has run its course,” Bess said. “A few years back it was carried by Barnes and Noble. It was out there in the mainstream.”

Since then, the title had faded into general obscurity.

That was until reporters began knocking on Bess’ door to ask him about his book and the controversy it caused. Now, “Pastor, I Am Gay” is back in high demand. Anyone looking to read Bess’s book won’t necessarily have to shell out more than $500.

Fireside Books in Palmer is carrying signed copies for $14.45, according to sales clerk Katie Renn. Renn said the store has six left.

It’s unclear if the newly revived fame of Bess’ book will spark a rush to sell on sites like Amazon and Ebay. Being around for 13 years, “Pastor, I Am Gay” is sure to be in many bookshelves around the Valley.

As for Bess, he’s not quite getting rich off his book’s hefty new price tag.

“I’m not making a nickel,” he said.