ORANGE PARK — Brandon Dusanic never had a passion for writing.

Even after winning a young authors contest in the first grade. 

It wasn't until he picked up a pen and paper years later, the words started flowing out naturally. 

What came of it was a result that Dusanic said he couldn’t have ever imagined. 

Back in September 2024, Dusanic released his debut book, Fresh Out of the Baptismal Pool: A Guide for New Christians Ensuring Growth in Jesus Christ. 

He said the book, a manual for those fresh out of the water, is a navigation tool through the Christian perspective, with an overarching theme of giving oneself grace and practicality throughout life.

“I’m a practical guy,” he said. “I’m like, ‘Okay, how does this stuff line up to my life, right now?”

Dusanic said his life story was a big inspiration behind the publication.

“When I got baptized in 2009, regular life kept going on,” he said. “So, I had to learn the hard way. I always saw these people who would get baptized and come out and their life is changed instantly. I got baptized and I was like, ‘Oh, did I do something wrong.’”

Dusanic began writing the book a few years ago; however, he said he shelved it until the time was right – experiencing many tough times and low points in his life. 

“Something just kind of came over me and said, ‘Hey, write your story.' And so, I did,” he said.

Through many personal experiences of faith, transformation and healing, Dusanic said he learned the importance of attending service, being in small groups, evangelism and mentorship — themes the guide also discusses. 

Dusanic said his community played a big part in influencing the book and bringing him to where he is today. 

Born in Suffolk, Virginia, he eventually joined the Navy and worked as an avionics technician, before finally being stationed in Mayport, Florida. 

Now, as a father of two, he works as an electrical instructor. Dusanic said after settling in the Jacksonville area, later in Clay County, he experienced a new world of inclusion and comfortability — a message he wants to send out to others. 

“People are really cool with just taking you where you’re at in life. At other churches and other places, I always felt like I had to perform. And, I’ll tell you what: [In] Clay County, I don’t feel like I have to perform at all.”

 Dusanic said his book has made a strong impact, telling his story in hopes of helping those going through the same thing.

 As the recent recipient of the 2025 International Impact Book Awards winner in the Christian and Christian Non-Fiction category, he said he’s glad his words have made a difference in the lives of those worldwide.

Dusanic said calling himself an award-winning author is unbelievable, but nonetheless amazing. He credits his success to his parents who inspired him to keep going. 

For the future, Dusanic said he's flipping through some ideas for his next book, potentially a prayer journal.

For now, he’s relishing in his current accomplishment and taking life one step at a time. 

Fresh Out of the Baptismal Pool is currently available on Amazon.