I Can Only Imagine: A Memoir

By Bart Millard and Robert Noland

Narrated by Bart Millard

The captivating story behind the bestselling single in the history of Christian music—and the man who wrote it 

MercyMe’s crossover hit, “I Can Only Imagine,” has touched millions of people around the world. But few know about the pain, redemption, and healing that inspired it. Now Bart Millard, award-winning recording artist and lead singer of MercyMe, shares how his dad’s transformation from abusive father to man of God sparked a divine moment in music history.

Go behind the scenes of Bart’s life—and the movie based on it—to discover how God repaired a broken family, prepared Bart for ministry through music, and wrote the words on his heart that would change his life forever. I Can Only Imagine is a front-row seat to witnessing God’s presence throughout Bart’s life. Whether falling in love with his childhood sweetheart or mourning his father’s death, founding MercyMe or flailing in the midst of its success, Bart continues to place his trust in God’s plans—plans that continue to surprise and surpass what Bart could have ever imagined.  

• Language: English
• Publisher: Thomas Nelson
• Release date: Feb 14, 2023
• ISBN: 9781404118874

Bart Millard

Bart Millard is a founding member and lead singer of the multi-platinum selling contemporary Christian band MercyMe. He is married to his childhood sweetheart, Shannon. They reside in Franklin, TN along with their children Sam, Gracie, Charlie, Sophie and Miles. 

Reviews for I Can Only Imagine

[kaylynvh · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

If it were possible I would give this book more than five stars. Well written and right from the soul. The book goes much deeper into Bart’s life than the movie. Since it was written after the movie was made he was able to include that experience and the emotions that came with it.

[bookslesstravelled · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

*I received a copy from the publisher for review. This does not affect my review.*

I won't lie, this isn't an easy read...Let me rephrase that, this story will break your heart, it's raw and emotional, but most of all? It's beautiful! It takes a family that has been chewed up, spit out, and left completely divided, left with no hope, no love, nowhere to go...Then comes Grace. This is a book that I was so excited to read, but for all the wrong reasons. I knew it would be hard, but I never realized how much of it would mirror my own life, and how beautiful God's love is in our darkest hours. This is a book that not everyone will want to read, but the message is timeless and universal. God is love, and He desires to heal, comfort, and restore us if we just give Him a chance.

[jboyzmom · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Several years back, I was driving down the road. I was listening to a Christian radio station, loving the songs that were there. Then I hear the words, "I can only imagine...." and proceed to listen to the song. By the second verse, I had to pull over and listen closely. By the end of the second verse, I was bawling my eyes out, had my hands raised and was "praying" the song to the Lord. It was emotional and moving, and I knew that there had to be a story behind. This was the start of my love of MercyMe's work. Flash foward several years, now there's a movie called "I Can Only Imagine". I watch the trailer. I cry, yet again. from the feelings I get. Now, I have the chance to review the memoir about the story behind the song and movie. And, oh my. What. A. Story. It's raw. It's moving. It will leave you smiling, it will leave you crying, it may even leave you angry. But, it will bring you closer to God. It will make you fall to your knees once again, and really imagine what that moment would be like when you stand before your Creator. This is not a book I normally would pick up, as I'm not fond of memoirs, but this book, with it's pictures to coincide with Bart Millard's life, is beautifully, poignantly written and really brings forth the pain, the hurt, the anger and the redemption and forgiveness he went through. This is definitely one I recommend, with 5 stars and lots of praises! I can't wait to see the movie next! *I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*