Allen Appel, American author, illustrator, and photographer

Allen Appel, born on January 6, 1945, is an accomplished American novelist widely recognized for his captivating series centered on the time-traveling protagonist, Alex Balfour. This acclaimed series, often referred to as 'The Time Shard Series' or 'The Alex Balfour Series,' masterfully weaves intricate fictional narratives with actual historical figures and pivotal global events, offering readers a unique blend of historical authenticity and imaginative storytelling.

Appel's distinct approach allows readers to not only follow Balfour's adventurous journeys through various epochs but also gain deeper insights into significant historical periods and the lives of influential personalities. For instance, Balfour's exploits might place him alongside historical giants during moments like the Russian Revolution or within the vibrant, often turbulent, artistic and social scenes of a bygone era. This intermingling of verified history with compelling fiction is a hallmark of Appel's literary style, captivating audiences who appreciate both precise historical context and imaginative narrative depth.

Early Life and Artistic Foundations

Born in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Allen Appel spent his formative years in Parkersburg, West Virginia. His academic journey led him to West Virginia University, where he graduated in 1967. Following his graduation, Appel relocated to Washington, D.C., embarking on a professional career that initially saw him make significant contributions as a talented illustrator and photographer. This period of his life proved instrumental in shaping his visual storytelling capabilities, which would later subtly influence his narrative approach as a novelist.

Collage Artistry and Literary Debut

Appel distinguished himself in the artistic community through his innovative series of collage illustrations. These distinctive works were notably featured in the Sunday magazine section of The Washington Post, where his imaginative black-and-white compositions garnered widespread attention. His unique visual artistry often transformed seemingly disparate elements into cohesive and thought-provoking images.

This celebrated illustrative work paved the way for his first foray into authorship: a collaborative book titled "Proust's Last Beer: A History of Curious Demises," published in 1980. Co-authored with writer Bob Arnebeck, the book showcased Arnebeck's compelling profiles of various historical figures and animals, vividly brought to life by Appel's imaginative and often whimsical black-and-white collages. This project not only solidified Appel's reputation as a creative force but also marked his official entry into the world of published literature, setting the stage for his subsequent success as a novelist.

Frequently Asked Questions About Allen Appel

What is Allen Appel primarily known for?
Allen Appel is best known as an American novelist, particularly for his 'Alex Balfour Series' or 'The Time Shard Series,' which features a time-traveling protagonist interwoven with actual historical events and figures.
What makes the Alex Balfour series unique?
The Alex Balfour series is unique for its intricate blend of fictional adventures with verified historical people and events. This approach provides readers with an engaging narrative that is both imaginative and historically informative, setting it apart in the time travel and historical fiction genres.
What was Allen Appel's first published book?
Allen Appel's first published book was "Proust's Last Beer: A History of Curious Demises," released in 1980. This was a collaborative work with writer Bob Arnebeck, where Appel contributed imaginative black-and-white collage illustrations.
What was Allen Appel's profession before becoming a novelist?
Before gaining prominence as a novelist, Allen Appel worked as an illustrator and photographer. He was particularly recognized for his collage illustrations published in the Sunday magazine section of The Washington Post.