Allen Ballard has crossed Jordan River.
His obituary is here: Allen B. Ballard Jr. Obituary Nov 5, 2026 - New Comer Albany
Among many other things in his distinguished and productive life, it notes he "authored five books, three non-fiction, and two novels." That gives me something to shoot for, as I'm up to four, two non-fiction and two novels, and have a couple more books in mind -- although the economics of modern publishing is a disincentive.
In 2018, Dr. Ballard did me the great honor of reading before publication my first novel, The Last Circle of Ulysses Grant. His blurb, which I reprint in full below, can still be found on the website of the publisher, Square Circle Press.
"The Last Circle of Ulysses Grant, uses fictional techniques to tell the story of the General’s struggle to complete his memoirs while in the terminal stages of his battle against cancer. Further, through the judicious use of flashback techniques, the author chronicles the high and low points of Grant’s career, bringing to life for the modern reader the whole era of the Civil War and Reconstruction. Conner, moreover, in poignant and clearly written prose, introduces us to the loving family and former comrades-in-arms who surrounded and comforted Grant during his last days. Civil War buffs and lovers of historical fiction alike will definitely enjoy this fine addition to the literature on a true American hero."
Allen B. Ballard, Professor Emeritus of History, University at Albany, State University of New York; author of Where I’m Bound
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