When I got an email that I was selected to read this book, I thought cool. A book about a football player and his testimony. I was not prepared for the feelings and emotions this book would uncover. This book follows Jason Brown and his family as they leave the NFL to found First Fruits Farm. As a person who is not a football fan I expected a lot of football talk and the story of the NFL. However, I received a story about GOD and his goodness. This book was exactly what we need after last year. Many of us have struggled recently and it was refreshing to see someone not only struggle but share the walk that got them through. This book brought me to tears many times and challenged my standing with God at this time. It is truly a book that needs to be read. Jason Brown and his wife Tay are truly heroes of the faith.

Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for allowing me the opportunity to read and review this book. All opinions are my own.

CENTRED by JASON BROWN is the most inspirational true story that I read last year. It is well written and I like the author;s honesty and humour as he tells the story of his rise to fame in NFL football and his obedience in giving it all up in order to follow God's plan for his life.
He speaks about the importance of putting faith and family first and what happens when pride creeps in. The book is full of Bible stories and Scriptures that underscore what the Lord is teaching him. He speaks of the importance of working at a marriage and of how his wife Tay not only backs him in a venture that most people find foolish, but she also challenges his faith when he is close to giving up.
It is a book that I will read more than once. I have found it most encouraging and also challenging.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from WaterBrook & Multnomah. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

I really loved this honest and open story of Jason Brown, a former NFL player, where he went from money life to meaningful life, from playing football to growing food. Money life, because even though he was in NFL and enjoyed playing football, deep down he knew, that he was not in there for football itself. He is probably not widely understood for changing careers like that, but in the end of the day, we see what can happen to money, any amount of money in a short period of time. And life is short too, and one has to choose what matters most. I respect Jason Brown and his family for choosing to lean on God 100%. This First Fruits farm may look humble, but their attitude is much better than many big churches I have visited. I am also not a huge fan of football, so had Jason Brown not become a farmer, I would have never known about him or his faith. He and his wife, Tay, are truly building an amazing legacy.

P.S. Do not forget to grab some tissues, because some stories in the book will make you cry.

This is a very refreshing look at living the good life! The author, Jason Brown, was a talented professional football player, but he left behind all the money and fame to become a farmer. That's right, a farmer! Why? Because he believes God wanted him to be a farmer, and give food to the needy. I am astounded that his wife went along with this plan! But together, they plan to follow God and raise their children on a farm. It is amazing how the author follows God through each step. He prays and puts the outcome in God's hands. And God delivers! This is an awesome true life story that will inspire you, and challenge you to follow God in your life too.

"This story chronicles the sacrifices, trials, and ultimately the provision, protection, purpose, and blessings Jason and Tay Brown found as they left wealth and riches to follow God's call to serve in his Kingdom. As Jesus said, it's easier for a camel to go through an eye of a needle, than for a man to do this. Their lives offer inspiration to everyone, and this book gives pause and a chance for self-reflection of one's own choices and priorities. Jason and Tay Brown are an inspiration of courage, faith, and commitment to God, family, and community."

John Mahshie
Executive Director
Veterans Healing Farm