Byron Herbert Reece was a native of Union County Georgia, the son of parents with deep family roots in the area. He grew up working the small family farm, getting what education he could in the local area, and loving literature and classical music he could catch on the radio out of Atlanta. He began publishing poetry while still in high school and gained the attention of authors and editors Jesse Stuart and Ralph McGill. His work led to critical acclaim but not financial success and he continued working the farm and caring for his ill parents. Click to learn more about his story and his life.