Dr. Kellogg authors article on fictional sleuth Uncle Abner

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Dr. Kellogg is a frequent reviewer of books in the mystery genre. He is also the creator of the Barry Baskerville series of mysteries for children. His most recent title, “Barry Baskerville and the Buried Treasure” (Airship 27, 2019), is available at the Amazon website.

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Dr. Richard Kellogg, professor emeritus of psychology at Alfred State College, is the author of an article appearing in the most recent issue of Paperback Parade, a quarterly publication for paperback collectors and readers. The article is titled “Uncle Abner: Seeker of Justice.”

The author comments that Melville Davisson Post (1871-1930) created a series of remarkable detective stories that feature a backwoods sleuth identified only as Uncle Abner. Although Abner works as a farmer and livestock dealer in the hills of Virginia, his strong moral values lead to his involvement in the solving of numerous crimes.

Abner's investigations often involve homicide, stolen livestock, and legal disputes concerning deeds and wills. His frequent quoting of Bible verses is reminiscent of the Old Testament prophets. Abner feels that his apprehension of criminals is doing the work of God.

As for Melville Davisson Post, he earned his law degree in 1872. He practiced both criminal and corporate law before becoming a full-time writer. His famous anthology of Uncle Abner adventures, titled “Uncle Abner: Master of Mysteries,” was published originally in 1918.

Dr. Kellogg is a frequent reviewer of books in the mystery genre. He is also the creator of the Barry Baskerville series of mysteries for children. His most recent title, “Barry Baskerville and the Buried Treasure” (Airship 27, 2019), is available at the Amazon website.