Lee Sandlin

As a genealogical writer, The Distancers grabbed my attention when it appeared in the Reader in 2004. What a master of prose. Mr. Sandlin did me the honor of autographing one of the Distancers segments when he spoke at the Newberry Library in 2011. Gone much too soon. His writing will live on.

A reviewer often reveals as much about himself as about the author he's reviewing. And the impression that Lee Sandlin made in his WSJ review of James Jones' work was of a man who was knowledgeable, thoughtful, and independent-thinking. Then, just as I was admiring him, I came to the touching end of his review and encountered the shocking news that this writer I had just "met" had died as he was editing the piece I had just read. Perhaps oddly, it felt like a loss. You ought to know that...

Nina, I thought I would add my condolences. I knew Lee long ago. I just wrote something to some of my friends and hope it not amiss if I add it here:

Yesterday, I found out that an old friend of mine from high school, New Trier, in Winnetka, Illinois, which I attended before my family moved to Florida after my tenth grade year, died a week ago Saturday. We lost touch after I moved, but when I knew him he was my favorite person to talk to, and we talked about all sorts of things, books...

Nina, please accept my support and condolences in this difficult time! I have been following Lee's writing career for a while. His books and essays will not go unnoticed!
Marina S

Nina, I just found out from Marina that Lee died so suddenly. I know you guys were such a close couple.If there is one good thing that can be said about his passing is that you were right there with him. Tanya

May you find the courage to face tomorrow in the love that surrounds you today.

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.