The Final Test - A Biography of James Ball Naylor, is about one of the most well known men in the country at the turn of the twentieth century, who has since faded into obscurity. A country doctor exceptionally gifted with natural ability, Naylor's passion for writing led to his greatest success as the author of a 1901 best seller. He wrote poetry, short stories, historical and other novels, and became well known as an entertainer and speaker on the Lyceum and Chautauqua Circuits, as well as a political force both as a candidate and a newspaper columnist. His contributions and accomplishment as an educator, writer, poet, public speaker, entertainer, public servant, and politician were numerous. His involvement in politics brought him more than passing friendships with local and national politicians, including Warren G. Harding, whom he knew from their earliest days in politics. This association led to Naylor's thirteen-year stint as a columnist for the Marion Star, but his staunch support of Harding in the face of the scandals after Harding's death affected Naylor's reputation as well. This is an inspiring story of a remarkable man with strong moral character and integrity who was dedicated to his family and to helping others in his profession as a physician. The Final Test – A Biography of James Ball Naylor was a FINALIST in the Biography-Historical category in the 2011 National INDIE Excellence Awards.
Flaherty’s account of Naylor’s writings is sympathetic without being sycophantic. Substantial excerpts from both poetry and fiction allow us to savor Naylor’s style (straightforward, with a tendency toward the vernacular), and she makes a good case for reviving Naylor’s better works as more than simply period curiosities....Throughout the book Flaherty shows her respect for, and enjoyment of, Naylor’s work, yet she never inflates his claims as an author. – Ohioana Quarterly Summer/Fall 2012
Through prose and poetry, James Ball Naylor impacted society with his vivid renditions of rural America. "The Final Test: A Biography of James Ball Naylor" is a biography written by Theresa Marie Flaherty who covers the man's life and where his inspirations that ring true even today come from. An excellent study in turn of the century literature, The Final Test is a fine entry into literary studies and biography collections, highly recommended. – Small Press Bookwatch
The author, Theresa Marie Flaherty, has captured the essence of Dr. Naylor. The book takes the reader into the heart of Dr. Naylor and shows his deep love for his family, his hometown, his state and his country. Theresa has done this in a way that will hold the reader’s attention from the start of the book to the end. The book is factual yet is written in a style that shows the talent Dr. Naylor had of sharing his life through poetry, story and verse. I highly recommend this book because it will give the reader the chance to get to know a very extraordinary man - Dr. James Ball Naylor. – Dr. James Mason
