Books Like...

"Hard Times: An Oral History of the Great Depression" by Studs Terkel is a collection of oral histories from individuals who lived through the Great Depression in the 1930s. The interviews range from touching to depressing to amusing, providing a wide perspective on the era. Terkel interviewed a diverse range of people, including the rich, poor, young, old, politicians, and ordinary citizens, offering insights into how the Depression shaped American society. reflects on the social turbulence of the 1960s while looking back at the 1930s, highlighting the individual experiences and perceptions of the time.

Hill Women: Finding Family and a Way Forward in the Appalachian Mountains by Cassie Chambers is a memoir that covers the author's life and her family's journey from Appalachian sharecropping to her accomplishments as an Ivy League grad and a legal aid lawyer in Kentucky. The book highlights the strength and resilience of the women in her family, portraying their hard work, support, and values that have shaped her life and career. Chambers writes about the challenges faced by the people in Appalachia, focusing on the positive aspects of the community and the importance of education in breaking the cycle of poverty.

Salvation on Sand Mountain by Dennis Covington is a nonfiction book that delves into the world of snake handling churches in Southern Appalachia. The author, a journalist, initially went to cover a criminal trial in the area but ended up immersing himself in the culture of these churches, where believers handle snakes as a test of faith. Through his observations and participation, Covington explores the complexities of this religious practice and the cultural backdrop that sustains it. The book provides an honest and intriguing account of Covington's journey of self-discovery within a world that is both familiar and foreign to him.

Covington's writing style in Salvation on Sand Mountain has been described as masterly and artistic, offering a vivid and engaging narrative that draws readers into the mysterious and human aspects of the snake handling churches. The book not only sheds light on the religious fervor and eccentricities of the practitioners but also delves into the author's personal reflections on his own background, spirituality, and the cultural connections he discovers throughout his exploration of this unique community.

"When These Mountains Burn" by David Joy delves into the harsh realities of poverty, despair, and addiction flowing through the Appalachia Mountains of Western North Carolina. Through the eyes of characters like Ray, a retired Fire Forester, and local addicts like Denny, the author vividly portrays the devastating effects of illegal drugs on families and communities. As Ray is pushed to seek vengeance against ruthless drug dealers threatening his son's life, a gripping tale of desperation, corruption, and the pursuit of justice unfolds. The author's writing style combines slow-cooked grit lit with poetic prose, creating a noir atmosphere reminiscent of Jim Thompson while addressing contemporary issues with authority and topicality.

"If Ever I Return, Pretty Peggy-O" by Sharyn McCrumb revolves around the planning for a 20th-anniversary high school reunion in a small town in Tennessee. The story intertwines the past of Viet Nam veterans, the appearance of a popular folk singer named Peggy, and the mysterious threats she receives. incorporates elements of 1960s and 1970s music, history, and the struggles faced by the characters, including the sheriff and his deputy who are key figures in solving the mystery. The plot unfolds with references to folk songs, character-driven narratives, and a surprising twist at the end that keeps readers engaged.

The Dollmaker by Harriette Simpson Arnow is a poignant and haunting tale set during World War II, following the Nevels family as they leave their rural life in Kentucky to work in Detroit. The story delves into the struggles and hardships faced by the characters, particularly Gertie Nevels, a strong and independent woman who navigates the challenges of adapting to a new life in the city. The narrative captures the essence of the war era, exploring themes of sacrifice, resilience, and the impact of war on ordinary people.

'Fair and Tender Ladies' by Lee Smith is a captivating story told through a series of letters written by the main character, Ivy Rowe, spanning from her childhood to old age. The narrative follows Ivy's life in the Appalachian mountains, touching upon significant historical events such as the first World War and societal changes spanning decades. Through Ivy's letters, readers are immersed in a world rich with human experiences, relationships, and the vibrant culture of Appalachia. The writing style, characterized by colloquial language and beautifully crafted descriptions, brings Ivy's story to life, making it a poignant and engaging read.

'Crapalachia: A Biography of a Place' by Scott McClanahan is a blend of fiction and nonfiction, a coming-of-age memoir set in West Virginia. It explores the author's childhood experiences visiting his Grandma Ruby in Danese, delving into the lives of his family members and friends. The narrative style is a mix of stream of consciousness and storytelling, capturing the essence of growing up in a rural setting with humor and understanding.

The stories within the book touch on themes of family dynamics, struggles with poverty, dealing with loss, and the unique characters that populate the author's world. McClanahan paints vivid portraits of his relatives, particularly his Grandma Ruby and Uncle Nathan, showcasing their quirks, dreams, and challenges in a poignant and sometimes humorous light.

'The Devil's Dream' by Lee Smith is a novel that delves into the history of country music and its intersection with religion, focusing on the Bailey family from Grassy Springs, Virginia. Starting in 1833, the story follows the family's struggle between their love for music and their devotion to God. Through multiple generations, the narrative explores the evolving relationships between traditional music, faith, and societal changes in the Appalachian region. The book is narrated through different characters, predominantly women, who provide vignettes showcasing the transformation of the family over time. Smith's writing style captures the complexities of the characters and the cultural nuances of Southern Appalachia.

In 1936, deep in the woods of eastern Kentucky, lives Cussy Carter, a 19-year-old member of the historical Pack Horse Library Project, who is also known as a Blue due to her blue skin. The book follows Cussy's journey as she delivers books to the impoverished hill people of Eastern Kentucky, facing prejudices and challenges along the way. The novel sheds light on race, poverty, and the love of literature, offering a unique perspective on what it means to be an outcast in society.

The story is told in the first person by Cussy, also known as Bluet, as she navigates through the challenges of being a pack horse librarian, dealing with poverty, hunger, and the coal mining industry in the mountains of Kentucky. The book delves into the historical context of the Pack Horse Librarians and the Blue People, intertwining their stories to create a compelling narrative that explores themes of prejudice, poverty, and resilience in the face of adversity.