Discover the Best Books Written by H. Jackson Brown
Horace Jackson Brown Jr. (March 14, 1940 – November 30, 2021) was an American author who was best known for his inspirational book, Life's Little Instruction Book, which was a The New York Times Best Seller (1991–1994). Its sequel, Life's Little Instruction Book: Volume 2, also made it to the same best-seller list in 1993. Brown was born in Middle Tennessee on March 14, 1940. Before becoming a writer, he acted as a creative director of an advertising agency in Nashville.
He graduated from Emory University in 1962 and was a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity. In 1991 he was honored as a "Significant Sig," an award given by the organization to its notable members. Brown first published A Father's Book of Wisdom, which was quickly followed by P.S. I Love You, a collection of sayings and observations from his father and mother, respectively. The latter contains a famous quote ending with "Explore. Dream. Discover." which is often misquoted as having been said by Mark Twain.
Both books were very popular and led to live's Little Instruction Book, which was originally written as a going-away present for his college-bound son, Adam. This book contained 511 reminders about "how to live a happy and rewarding life" and became a best-seller worldwide. It has logged over two years on the New York Times best-seller list, including more than a year at the number one spot. Life's Little Instruction Book was the first book ever to occupy the number one spot on the New York Times best-seller list in both paperback and hardback formats simultaneously.
Live and Learn and Pass It On followed and also became New York Times best-seller. It was co-authored with his ex-wife Rosemary C. Brown, who is herself an author of books like Rosemary Brown's Big Kitchen Instruction Book.
Brown's books have been translated into 35 languages. They have spawned calendars, posters, apparel items, daily journals, greeting cards, audiocassettes, screensavers, and fortune cookies. He died on November 30, 2021, at the age of 81, at his residence in Nashville.