The History Stacks: Wylie McLallen, from Hemingway to Hendrix Artwork

BookSpeak Network

Three different shows. One common theme: celebrating the world of books.This podcast network is for readers and writers interested in hearing about awesome new books spanning a wide variety of different genres. Whether you’re hoping to get to know a new author or are in need of some practical writing tips, the BookSpeak Network has you covered.~The first program in the BookSpeak Network is the Sunbury Press Books Show. Hosted by the CEO of indie publisher Sunbury Press Lawrence Knorr, this show consists largely of interviews between the publisher and the authors he takes on at Sunbury Press. Knorr interviews both fiction and nonfiction authors and covers a range of topics from history, sports, biography, and more. This show may air 1-4 times per month.~The second program is called Milford House Mysteries, hosted by mystery and thriller authors Sherry Knowlton and JM (Jody) West. Sherry and JM often discuss the process of writing and publishing mysteries as well as doing interviews with some of the genre’s top authors. Milford House Mysteries hits the airwaves about two times per month. ~Finally, it’s the Brown Posey Press Show! Author Tory Gates interviews authors in the literary fiction and nonfiction genres, and he’s got a special connection with indie presses and indie authors. If you’re in the mood for a deep dive into art and uniqueness in literature, you’re going to find something to love in these conversations. ~Looking for author interviews and writing tips? Go ahead and hit that subscribe button. You’ve got some listening to do.

All Episodes

BookSpeak Network

The History Stacks: Wylie McLallen, from Hemingway to Hendrix

July 26, 2025

Author and historian Wylie McLallen returns to the BookSpeak Network to discuss his life, career, and biographies, which have left a lasting impression when considering the subject matter.

Growing up in Memphis, McLallen earned a degree in History and English. He studied under Professor Robert Drake, a close friend of Flannery O'Connor, who exposed his students to poet and novelist James Dickey.

A programmer and analyst by profession, McLallen's work includes Tigers by the River, a history of the early pro football team that his father was a fan of, and examines the roots of what would become the National Football League.

McLallen may best be known for his two-volume biography of Ernest Hemingway, Unbridled Dreamer, and A Man of Modern Letters: Hemingway and the Rise of Modern Literature.

McLallen speaks with host Dr. Lawrence Knorr about these subjects and previews an upcoming biographical release, Electric Bluesman: The Life and Times of Jimi Hendrix.

Wylie McLallen lives with his wife, Nickey Bayne, in Vancouver, British Columbia.