“Before You Climb Any Higher: Valley Wisdom for Mountain Dreams” releases Feb. 18th
Coming off his 2025 GRAMMY win for Best Gospel Performance/Song, Jonathan McReynolds understands life isn’t always wins, but a balance of mountaintop and valley seasons. That’s why in his new book, Before You Climb Any Higher: Valley Wisdom for Mountain Dreams (Feb. 18, 2025, W Publishing Group, an imprint of Thomas Nelson), he invites readers to redefine how they view life’s lower moments. Known for his soulful music and inspiring storytelling, McReynolds pairs those lyrical qualities with personal experiences and gleaned wisdom to make this point: A great mission requires from us a little grind, a little hustle, a little competition. But also plenty of time in the valley.
Not just another self-help book—Before You Climb Any Higher is a candid and introspective guide to discovering rest, renewal, and purpose in the valleys of life. McReynolds draws from his unique perspective as an artist who has reached the proverbial mountaintop—nationwide tours, awards, and millions of fans. Born on the Southside of Chicago, McReynolds has garnered the support and collaboration of artists like Stevie Wonder, Justin Bieber, Maverick City Music, and more. He is a well-admired artist with wisdom to share what success looks like—how it feels to be “in demand.”
Yet, McReynolds admits he’s found the most profound growth and peace off the stage in the quiet, reflective spaces of life’s “valleys.” His new book invites readers—no matter what their goals are in life—to discover the beauty and abundance waiting in life’s quieter, humbler moments.
“We’re often driven by our dreams and ambitions to ascend life’s mountains. But even the strongest climbers will grow weary if they don’t take the time to rest,” McReynolds shares. “The valley isn’t a place of defeat; it’s a place to reconnect with grace, love, and encouragement.”
McReynolds adds, “The valley isn’t about finishing, achieving, or producing—it’s about being. It’s where we are reminded, we are more than our accomplishments.”
Through rich anecdotes, relatable reflections, and spiritually fueled guidance, Before You Climb Any Higher empowers readers to stop viewing valleys as setbacks and instead see them as necessary, life-giving pauses in their journeys of success.
The book is available in paperback, e-book and audiobook read by the author wherever books are sold. Find out more about Jonathan by visiting https://www.thomasnelson.com/p/before-you-climb-any-higher/.
About Jonathan McReynolds
Jonathan McReynolds is a Grammy-winning multi-hyphenate that shares his often counter-cultural revelations in a variety of mediums. His Christian music career has produced several chart-topping songs and albums and garnered millions of fans around the world including the likes of Stevie Wonder and Justin Bieber. Rising pop superstar Jon Batiste admits he studied McReynolds in his own Grammy-winning single “Show Me the Way”.
McReynolds’s writing, both song and prose, is distinctly conversational. It is simultaneously profound yet unpretentious.
McReynolds, a Columbia College alum, Moody Theological Seminary graduate and Mensa member, has starred in several film and TV projects, most notably as a celebrity judge on BET’s then highest rated show, Sunday Best. He has also been an adjunct professor since 2014.
About the Publisher
Thomas Nelson is a world leading publisher and provider of Christian content and has been providing readers with quality inspirational product for more than 200 years. As part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., the publishing group provides multiple formats of award-winning Bibles, books, gift books, cookbooks, curriculum and digital content, with distribution of its products in more than 100 countries. Thomas Nelson is headquartered in Nashville, TN. For additional information visit www.thomasnelson.com.
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Contact:
Allison Carter
HarperCollins Christian Publishing
615-902-2143
[email protected]
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of RNS or Religion News Foundation.
