Searching for Brandon Bason

by Lance Mosher

As in his book Transformed , Lance Mosher takes you on an unforgettable journey that will challenge and inspire you.

Ever since his mother’s death, 17-year-old Brandon Bason has been stuck in the shadow of an abusive stepfather. After a deadly tragedy strikes again, Brandon struggles to contain his anger at the hand he’s been dealt, rejecting any notion of a God who cares about him. Suspended from school only weeks before graduation, Brandon stands at a crossroads. Then, unexpectedly, he receives an old cigar box that offers clues to his real father.

With nothing more to guide him than a well-loved road map to the Grand Canyon and an old, tattered Bible, Brandon embarks on the adventure of a lifetime - but not before roping his friend in for the ride. Along the way, they meet a good Samaritan with whom they form an unlikely friendship and explore life’s big questions. But just when things are looking up, Brandon discovers that what he left behind is much harder to run from than he thought.

Join Brandon on his raw yet touching coming-of-age journey. As he searches for the family he never knew he had, will he also find the faith he desperately needs?

How far would you go to learn who you are?

Audible Audio

Published January 19, 2021

About the author

Lance Mosher became a Christian in 2003. For the full story, read his book, Transformed: A Spiritual Journey. Lance earned his bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts in 2009 and his master’s degree in Ministry in 2011. Since 2008, he has worked in ministry in New Zealand and the United States. He manages multiple evangelistic websites and has directed a school of preaching, authored multiple books, and taught for a Christian university. In his free time, Lance enjoys time with his family, woodworking, writing, the outdoors, photography, music, and movies. He and his wife, Kristen, have two sons.

Reviews

[Robert Guinn · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading Searching for Brandon Bason, Lance Mosher has left me inspired and challenged.

Content wise, Mosher’s book took me a month to read because I, too, began searching for Brandon Bason. When I read for comprehension, I am an awfully slow reader desiring to absorb every detail and meditate on every facet. Translation: Searching for Brandon Bason captivated my mental attention for the better part of a month due to its emotional depth, attention to detail, and real-to-life story-line.

Mosher beautifully reveals the mind of a troubled teenagers who comes from a broken home. For this reason, I wish Searching for Brandon Bason had been published sooner. I believe it would have helped be better minister to the adolescents I have encountered as a house parent for a children home and foster parent.

If you are questioning whether this literary work is worth investing your time and finances, I will be investing in hard copies to incorporate them into my local ministry.

I recently taught on two lessons Brandon learns while discussing Acts 17 with Devin: 1) “Are you seeking God and 2) “Jesus can transform your life if you let Him.”

[Harley Pope · Rating 5 out of 5]

Searching for Brandon Bason is a wonderful example of how Christ searches for us by drawing us in to search for Him. That journey looks different for everyone but the truth found within scripture is the common denominator and when we seek the truth we inevitably find it. The author uses scripture to guide both the characters and the reader to the logical conclusions of who Jesus is and how to accept Gods plan for salvation. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is seeking God and recommend Lance Mosher’s other books as well.

[Ashlee Clippard · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book grabbed my attention right from the start and was hard to put down. Lance Mosher is a master storyteller! In this book there is a blend of a lost boy and a cross country trip that unfolds with chance encounters that may be answers to prayers that have yet to be said. The way Brandon Bason moves from scornful to doubtful to faith in a loving God is truly remarkable and hopeful.

[Drew · Rating 5 out of 5]

Most readers pick up fiction to pass the time, forgetting what they have read within a few days. The last book leaves them as soon as they start the next one. Lance Mosher's Searching for Brandon Bason breaks the cycle of meaningless reading by giving us a novel with purpose. However, unlike many books with an informative agenda, Mosher seamlessly weaves his message into an exciting story with twists and turns. Not only that, he imbues his characters with depth and emotion. He rises above the tired, two-dimensional stereotypes readers encounter far too often in self-published works, challenging us with interesting, conflicted, human protagonists. As we read about Brandon’s journey of self-discovery, we grow alongside him and find ourselves fascinated by the people he encounters. We travel with him through challenges, triumphs, defeat, heartache, regret, and redemption. This book will make you laugh, and it will make you cry.

Anton, Brandon’s mentor, is an excellent role model for Christians who may know enough about the basics to share their faith but are intimidated by the social interaction required by personal evangelism. Anton is not preachy or pushy, yet he effectively represents Christ to everyone with whom he interacts. Brandon Bason would be good required reading to complement a personal evangelism class at church.

Mosher allows the Bible to speak for itself in this story, shying away from partisan Christianity. Hand this novel to a friend who's searching for truth, and she will be able to learn God's will for her life without having to muddle through the common wars of religious factions.
Mosher is a skilled writer, deftly spinning a tale full of surprises, emotional scenes that will pull at your heartstrings, and entertaining experiences. Brandon Bason accomplishes a nearly impossible feat, delivering biblical truths through masterful storytelling.

[Kenneth James · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am honored to have had the chance to read this book. I was asked to read this book as a sensitivity reader, so as to ensure that the culturally diverse characters are handled in a respectful and thoughtful way.
I can assure you that, on all accounts, it has accomplished that and more. The narrative that Mosher has built is spiritually edifying, refreshing, and captivating. The characters are incredibly real in both general disposition and in their reactions to events happening around them. These characters are multi-layered, complex in how they react and change. This is not a book full of flawless characters with flawless lives, but flawed characters with very flawed lives. Particularly in Brandon's case, these flaws allow them to become more aware of the flawless Savior.
I learned from and lamented with Brandon during his journey, and the other characters that he meets are so wonderfully complementary to him. Anton, though I do not want to spoil much about him, shows him the veracity of Christ through the capacity of his kindness. In this book are relationships that overcome race and culture. These bonds help Brandon understand the truth behind God's word. Most importantly, these characters search for what is most important: the truth.
I could go on for hours about how much I enjoyed this. I want to say so much more, but I do not want to spoil a journey that you ought to read for yourself.

You deserve to read this book. Mr. Mosher, your work has once again helped me. I am certain that it will help all of you.

"And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." (John 8:32)

[Abigail · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book came into my life at the perfect time. There is so much talk and division in the world right now. I know I’m not alone when I say that I have been distracted by it all. I want to shout and scream like everyone else. I take comfort in one thing though: Although there is a world of division and unanswered questions here on earth, salvation is black and white when it comes to knowing how to be saved. If you’re unsure of where you stand, I think this book is a FANTASTIC place to start. Lance Mosher speaks through a very important character in this book using only the Bible.
I felt like I was genuinely on this journey with Brandon and friends. It was realistic and did not purely play on emotions. Although that was a large aspect, Mosher did a good job with truth and fact. I, being raised in a Christian home, still found myself thinking “wow” whenever a Biblical truth was put into a perspective that hit home.
This story made me eager to go out an evangelize. I WANT the patience and love seen within these chapters. We are told to live like Jesus and I have a new perspective on how He would physically teach others today.
You can be 80 years old and a Christian for most of your life or still feel as though you’re “indifferent” (only the readers will understand why I used that word) to the Gospel. This book is powerful, and I will continue to thank God for Lance Mosher and his work. With the physical and kindle version being so inexpensive, I would be quick to download and enjoy. You won’t regret it.

[Olivia Sokoloski Helton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautifully crafted Christian fiction novel that can actually be used as an evangelical tool. You can add this book to your collection of good reads that you keep close by to hand out to friends and family in attempts to reach out and encourage their faith. Mosher does a great job of imagining and creating some incredible fictional characters that show what we are capable of overcoming. It is a wonderful story of loss, hurt, and finding yourself and your faith in Jesus Christ through the events of a boy named Brandon. It takes you on a journey with two teenage boys whose tragedy shapes them more than they expected. I loved the little details from Lance's personal life that were weaved throughout the narrative of the book. The author has a way of keeping the reader engaged, page by page. I love how Mosher has carefully mixed the "good news" into the novel. I was surprised to find myself relating and connecting with the main character who I enjoyed watching grow in faith and self worth. Watching Brandon discover himself is truly-tear worthy - I cried several times on his behalf! This would be the start of a great series and would also make a great film. This book is a keeper! This is 2020. The year of chaos and uncertainty. This book is a bright memory I can store away and smile when I recall it. "Remember 2020? What a year, right? That summer my favorite book was Searching for Brandon Bason."

[Tim Robinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Any book about a troubled teen finding God and himself through the help of strangers is almost guaranteed to fall into cliche. Somehow, this one doesn't.

While Brandon's situation is complicated (if your heart isn't broken at the end of chapter one, you're made of stone), the story here is not complicated. It's a road trip during which the characters develop deeper relationships and self-knowledge. While at times the protagonists stray into well worn tropes (the titular "runaway with a troubled past", the "buddy along for the ride", the "kind-hearted stranger"), the book as a whole is an altogether fresh take - the intertwining of Brandon's story with the plan of salvation works surprisingly well. At times the balance between the 'action' sequences and the 'evangelism' sequences feels a bit off - there is a LOT of examining scripture, and some of it comes in big chunks - but both are handled thoughtfully and realistically. The author doesn't shy away from the hard questions that non-Christians ask about God and the Bible. This means that Brandon's conversion is never a foregone conclusion.

I'd recommend it for:
- mature Christians, as a case study of effective evangelism techniques.
- anyone seeking meaning in life, as a really accessible precis of what Jesus offers us, why that's important, and why it can be trusted.
- anyone jonesing for some late-90s nostalgia

It would work really well as a movie.

[Haley Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do you need a book that you can’t put down, can invest deeply and emotionally in, and learn something that will help you and you interact with others? This is the book for you.

As a Christian, this is a superb example on how to approach people and study with people. If you feel unqualified or uninformed about how to study with someone, this book gives you an amazing framework to work from. This book will definitely spark some inspiration. Inspiration to study more, show others the love of Christ no matter where you are, and make sure your life is right because life is way too short.

I became emotionally invested to the point where I was exasperated at the thought of something bad happening to them at the end of their adventure. As a teacher, Searching for Brandon Bason is a book that I would recommend to anyone who is a teenager and up. I literally finished it in a 24 hour period. It was a page turner.

You have no idea what an amazing adventure you are in for! You will literally cheer for the characters!

[R.A. Parr · Rating 4 out of 5]

Searching for Brandon Bason is the very credible tale of a teenagers journey through tragedy and deep hurt. From this place of pain, Brandon challenges and is challenged by the demonstrations of faith he sees in those around him.
Loss and suffering have punctuated his young life more than most, forming in their wake a jaded cynicism toward life, others, and God. In his struggle to make sense of life's cruel course, Brandon partakes on an impromptu journey; a road trip in memory of a lost friend. A journey that becomes a true adventure of discovery in which truths about himself and others unfold that will forever transform his life.
Beautifully written, Brandon's story weaves together thought-provoking narrative, emotionally charged drama, and the honest connections that impact us most. It is a story that serves its reader well at many levels, being an enjoyable read, an inspiring story, a solid, realistic apologetic about sincere faith, and a provocative reminder of lifes most important questions and where the answers can be found. Of wide appeal and well worth a read.

[Jana Blount · Rating 5 out of 5]

We should all be like Antwon!
Lance did an excellent job creating characters that drew you into their story. I found myself spending late nights trying to stay up and read after I got home from work every night to see what happened next. The story is easily relatable to many of the challenges that we all face, not just teens. When troubles arise in our lives, we may need some of those same answers Brandon needed. This book would make a great tool to share with someone you know that is also searching for answers. The way Lance presented the Bible studies in the story demonstrated a good outline for studying with someone. If you have wanted to study with someone but maybe lacked confidence, this provides a good example of how to go about talking with someone while still telling an excellent story. You will absolutely fall in love with Brandon and the other characters. You need at least two copies- one for you and one to share!

[Sara Taylor · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mosher does something with this book that I've never personally experienced. The story follows the spiritual journey of a hurt, angry, lost teen who hadn't actually intended to embark on a spiritual journey. Alongside Brandon, Mosher walks the reader through evidence after evidence of God's existence, yet without the drudgery one might feel if they were reading an apologetics textbook.

I personally loved the refresher of Christian evidences that this book brings, but more than that, I'm excited about the potential it has to reach teens and young adults in a way that they will actually absorb. Rather than shoving these proofs down their throats in a fluorescent-lit classroom, this is an opportunity to put the proof in their hands and allow them to explore it in their own way.

That said, the book is very Bible study-heavy at times, through means of dialogue. While Mosher's new way of transmitting this information has potential, these parts may not hold the interest of every teen.

[Sandra Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Since I had read and greatly appreciated Lance Mosher’s first book (Transformed) that told his personal story, I was excited to hear that he was writing a Christian Fiction book, Searching for Brandon Bason. I have now had the opportunity to read the book, and it did not disappoint me. The storyline drew me in with a sad tale of a young man suffering in so many ways that many people who knew him probably expected to have so many odds against him that he might never amount to much. However, along Brandon's journey as he searched for himself and knowledge of his father (and as others searched for him) he found a Father, a family, and a truth he never expected to find. This book teaches that God's people should not pre-judge who will be receptive to His Word but simply present the Word patiently and give it time to work in the hearts of searchers.

[Caitlyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

So excited to finally have read Lance's new book!! This novel got me excited about many things. First of all, it's so refreshing to see characters that are not perfect, and have not come from a perfect family. It makes the story that much more relatable. This is a theme I see in Christian fiction, and to be honest is why I don't tend to read them. Not so with this one! Secondly, I loved travelling along with the gang across state lines. It was like a walk down memory lane for me as a Texan who briefly lived in TN. That was just what I needed after being stuck in quarantine for so long. Now I really want to go see the Grand Canyon!!!
Thirdly, it's made me think back to when I first became a Christian. Such an exciting time. I hope I can retain that fire and drive
Thanks for a great read, Lance!
Blessings~

[Justin P Sivley · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say except for “What a ride!?” Lance Mosher has crafted an incredible story that is both enthralling and inspiring, while also being educational, apologetic, and even evangelistic. Younger readers, I am sure, will identify with the main character, if not in personal experience and common interest, then at least in the shared challenges of adolescence. Christians, I think will be inspired by the character of Anton to be bold in their faith, and to be prepared to share that faith. Searchers for truth will find answers to many questions they may have had about Christianity and the Bible (with plenty of Scripture to support any claims that are made). In the end, I think all readers will be engaged more and more as the story progresses. I found it very difficult to put down at times, and would recommend the book without hesitation to both Christians and non-Christians.

[Cassidy Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Searching for Brandon Bason was a great read! I was thinking that this Christian novel would have a storybook feel to it, but I was completely wrong. Mosher doesn’t shy away from presenting the very raw thoughts and feelings of a hurting and directionless teenager; he has crafted this book in such a way that resonates with the hurt and angst that most, if not all of us, have faced at some point in our lives. Thankfully, a map, an inherited Bible, and a stranger turns Brandon’s plight into a exhilarating journey of self-discovery of redemption.

This book isn’t just about a few guys who decide to travel across the country together; this book is about finding God and grace when all hope seems lost. I highly recommend reading this novel!

[Lydia Todd · Rating 5 out of 5]

This. Book.
It’s rare in a story to connect with the main character and his complete opposite, but I found myself at times in both Brandon, the lost teen with questions of what and why, and Anton, the encouragement and true light to any situation. Searching for Brandon Bason was sometimes raw, sometimes hilarious, sometimes shocking, and often somber. It felt like I was on a self discovery journey myself. Lance Mosher has amazed me with his talents poured into these pages. Whether you’ve got extra quarantine time, are on a path to self discovery, or just want another great read, I’d suggest hopping over to Amazon and ordering this gem.

[Lesley Sumner · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story flowed well. I enjoyed reading it. It was about ‘real life ‘ types of situations. We all ask at some time’Who am I?’ and ‘ What is life all about?’ It helps answer those questions.
The story is also quite educational as far as the area travelled through and historical monuments visited.
The way it is written makes it easy to relate to the characters as they are believable. There was an authentic quality about them.
I was motivated to be more authentic myself and sincere. I will share this book with others. Young people and adults would enjoy it.
The surprise ending brought tears to my eyes.

[Benjamin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wasn't sure what to expect when starting this book, but it reeled me in and I enjoyed following Brandon's adventure of discovery as he came to terms not only with Christianity, but with God Himself. Brandon wrestles with some hard questions, and as he learns, you will too. Seeing this journey of faith through someone else's eyes helped me identify areas where I am lacking, and it strengthened my faith as well. As others have noted, there is a lot of scripture in this book, but it is all part of the journey. Even if you don't agree with everything in this book, it is all presented in a humble way, and it will definitely make you think!

[Deirdre Redmayne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Mosher's book, "Searching for Brandon Bason". It's the first time I've read a fiction book that combines a really interesting story with a biblical account of why and how to become a Christian. The storyline kept my attention and had me wanting to find out what would happen next, while at the same time the gospel was being compellingly presented through the book. The message is presented in a simple yet thought provoking way that I'm sure will satisfy those who are searching for the truth. This is a great evangelistic tool that can be used in a non threatening manner to share with others! Thank you Lance!

[Zac Chrisman · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting journey that makes you keep turning the pages. I couldn’t get enough of this book. A great story and Cast keep you guessing what will be next in this coming of age story with a spiritual guide so to speak that helps Brandon find himself. Does contain scriptures and could be an interesting tool to get a friend that isn’t Christian interested in scripture. 100% recommend this as it was fun, witty and very well written. You’ll fall in love with the characters and I hope you enjoy the ride!

[Alisa W Leonard · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of a young man on the cusp of adulthood who has faced difficulties in his life and is trying to navigate his future. From the beginning of the book Mr. Mosher grabbed my attention and kept it to the ending with many surprising twists and turns.
This story not only entertained me, but it contains thought-provoking discussions between the characters which engaged and demanded my careful attention. It is a well thought out novel which I recommend. All ages, from teenagers to seniors, will find it entertaining and stimulating. A great book to share and discuss with others.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been one of the ones who has gotten to read this book before the official book release, and it is awesome. I don't normally go for Christian fiction, preferring Christian nonfiction, but this book combines an awesome story with tons of Biblical knowledge relevant to every day life. I was excited to read this initially because the author, Lance Mosher, is one of my oldest best friends. I came to realize while reading this that not only is it a great story, it helped me to be stronger in my faith in a way that I didn't know it would. This book is awesome.

[Lucy Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a journey this book has taken me on! Mosher has expertly developed characters who enable you to vicariously ride the turbulence of their lives and encounters. You'll be smiling at their victories, shedding a tear at their losses... and all with scripture intricately woven through the narrative. As someone who has experienced the transition to Christianity very recently, Brandon's journey from uncertainty to faith really resonated with my own experience. It is clear that this book will play a central part in guiding many young adults; I couldn't recommend it more highly!

[S Bruce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who do you know that is searching? They may well benefit from this book! And you will too. The young protagonist has suffered through much in his young life, and senses that there is something else worth looking for. Fortunately, he stumbles across a humble follower of God who guides him in his physical and spiritual journey. Lance Mosher does an masterful job of weaving story and scripture, to help those who are searching to see what is worth finding, and to discover who’s been searching for them all along.

[Eric Ramseur · Rating 5 out of 5]

We don't have many books that are as accessible, deal with as many issues, seek to bring healing and lead others to Christ as Lance Mosher's latest entry attempts. Lance does it perfectly in Searching for Brandon Bason. His characters have a full life and aren't one dimensional. The detail Lance puts into the book makes it more than just another evangelical tool. I'll be recommending this book to our local book clubs in Virginia Beach

[Dwina Willis · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is not your usual Christian fiction. Lance Mosher has taken the story of two boys coming of age and interspersed it with spiritual conversations. The quest the boys are on is a great story in and of itself, but the conversations ask some life-altering questions. Mosher does not use the usual pat answers for the questions discussed, but goes to the Bible to find the truth. It is well worth the read.

[Miranda · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a book, this book has so much biblical knowledge that just grows on you as you read. Regardless of ones biblical knowledge though questions arise as you read, driving you to continue. Meanwhile you are intrigued as to who this Brandon Bason is, and what is his story. You find yourself reading for both reasons, continue the quest to find out more about both the bible and this character. One of which you have found yourself really voting for in his quest. Hope there is a second.

[Jack Wilkie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Searching for Brandon Bason is a real page-turner that explores some of life's biggest questions and greatest challenges on a quest for truth. Mosher deserves great credit for rising above the weak and unrealistic tropes of much of modern Christian fiction to produce a story and characters who align with what we see in the real world.

[Christi Jensen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was left feeling thankful, reassured, and challenged! The story is humbling. I definitely was not expecting that ending!! Mosher did an excellent job at telling a captivating story, while sharing loads of scripture that I did not find overwhelming at all. It's definitely one of those books you wish you could immediately pick up the next in the series!!!