For Al Brown, Notes from My Father’s Bible, started as a simple project of organizing and transcribing his personal Bible notes for his daughters, Anna and Jordan. But as he worked, it became something much more: a collection of reflections, lessons, and faith-driven insights meant to be passed down through generations—and so his book was born.
The book’s subtitle, “Taking Some of the Mystery Out of the Mystery,” reflects Brown’s goal: to make the Bible more approachable for everyday readers. His perspective is straightforward and practical. He says, “I always thought the best-selling book in the world should be easy to understand.” Further adding, “I’m not a theologian, just a regular guy who studies the Bible, led and taught by the Holy Spirit.”
More than just interpretations of scripture, Notes from My Father’s Bible weaves together stories from Brown’s own life—moments where faith played a central role. From praying with a police officer in Manhattan to overcoming his fear of public speaking, trusting his wife’s intuition, and even selling a home with a crime scene, the book highlights how belief and perseverance shape everyday experiences. Some stories are deeply personal, like an encounter with an evil spirit, a Bible verse that changed his life, and a touching tribute to his grandfather, a humble sheep farmer.
His father’s unwavering commitment to teaching Sunday School played a major role in shaping Al’s faith. “Daddy taught Sunday School for many years, and it made an impression on me how he prepared and how dedicated he was to our family to see that we went to church. Every Sunday morning, we four children were put in the back of our old car and hauled off to Sunday School and church. We didn’t always like it, but it was good for us. I now see the full value and impact of those experiences.”
For Brown, this book is a personal legacy. “It’s my life’s work and my gift to my family,” he says. “This isn’t about book sales—it’s about sharing my faith and encouraging others.” The book has resonated with both new Bible readers and longtime churchgoers alike, offering inspiration and perspective.
His daughters see the book as a priceless keepsake. “It has been a joy to read Dad’s stories and his writing style, now preserved forever,” says Anna Brown Moore. “How many kids get to have a book written to them by their dad? It’s such an honor.”
Jordan Brown Byer adds, “My dad has always set an incredible example of how to be a Christian man, husband, and father. To see his faith shared through his life experiences is something I will always treasure.”
Brown’s five-decade career in real estate has given him no shortage of experiences, and he offers that there are still more stories to tell. “There are a few that have come to mind, including people I’ve met in my 53 years in real estate and my time teaching at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center for the DEA and ATF,” he says. “And there are still hundreds of notes in my Bible that didn’t make it into this book. So, who knows?”
For those thinking about writing their own reflections, Brown offers this advice: “Getting started might be the hardest part. It’s been said that everyone has a book in them. Pray over it, make your list, and just see where it takes you. And when writer’s block hits, push through and keep going.”
More than just a collection of notes, Notes from My Father’s Bible is a father’s way of ensuring his faith and wisdom live on. It’s a heartfelt reminder that the lessons of love, faith, and perseverance can continue to inspire long after the words have been written.
Al Brown grew up in Elberton, Georgia. He and Gayle married in 1972, emptied their bank account (all $301 of it), packed up their belongings from a small mobile home and moved south on an exciting adventure to a place Al had never been, St. Simons Island. He is a 1972 graduate of the University of Georgia, majoring in real estate. He’s been in real estate for 53 years “to support a bass fishing habit,” he says.
A single Bible verse changed his outlook and inspired his religious life in 1981, intensifying a desire to know the Bible. Notes From My Father’s Bible tells his story.
Al is available to speak to your group or club by request. Call Judy Scarlett at 912.268.2671, to schedule. Books are not sold at his speaking engagements but are available at GJ Ford Bookshop and Righton Books on St. Simons Island.
