The controversial book, Amen — Autobiography of a Nun, in which a Kerala Catholic nun alleges that sexual abuse and homosexuality are prevalent in the Catholic Church in the southern state, will soon be published in English, Hindi and Marathi.

The book should hit bookshelves across the country this month, author Sister Jesme told IANS.

"An agreement was signed . . . with Penguin Books, giving them the full domestic rights for the book. They hope to bring it out within the next 10-15 days or so," she said last week.

Sr. Jesme said the English version is ready. "In fact, I had written the book first in English, but there were no takers," she said.

When a Malayalam publisher agreed to publish it, she translated it into Malayalam. It was published a few months ago, raising Catholic Church eyebrows around the world.

Though she said there has been no official reaction from the Vatican so far, church authorities in Kerala have been in touch with her seeking clarifications about her motives behind penning the book.

"I have maintained right from the beginning that I am not against the church, all that I am seeking is a ‘renewal in the church’. I am dedicated to Lord Jesus and he is my guiding spirit all these years," said the 52-year-old nun.

Asked about the Hindi and Marathi versions, she said Penguin will arrange for the translated versions that will hit the markets after the English book — to be titled Amen — The Story of a Nun — is out.

Born in Trichur as Meamy Raphael, Sr. Jesme joined a convent and became a nun at a young age.

In the book, she speaks about shocking instances of carnal pursuits by members of the church. She highlights how she became a victim to such incidents, setting off a furore.

Sr. Jesme said that reactions to the book — there were even some death threats — have amazed her.

"However, as a believer, I feel Lord Jesus is behind all this. I am merely an instrument. He wants a renewal in the church," she said, explaining that her name itself is a combination of herself and Lord Jesus — ‘Jes’ and ‘Me.’