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'Storming Heaven' by Denise Giardina is a fictionalized account of the coal miners' struggles in West Virginia during the early 20th century. Through four intertwined characters, the novel delves into the hardships faced by the workers and their families, including sickness, unfair wages, and anger towards the coal companies. The story is set against the backdrop of significant historical events like the Matewan massacre and the Battle of Blair Mountain, providing a poignant portrayal of the labor battles and sacrifices made by the miners.

Denise Giardina effectively weaves together the narratives of different characters, offering a multi-perspective view of life in the coal mines of West Virginia. The author's writing style captures the raw and realistic essence of the coal mining era, portraying the struggles, resilience, and passion of the characters as they navigate through challenging times and fight for their rights in the face of powerful adversaries.

If you liked Storming Heaven, here are the top 15 books to read next:

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Showing 1 - 10 of 15 
  1. #1

    The Coal Tattoo by Silas House
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    The Coal Tattoo by Silas House is a powerful and moving tale that delves into the lives of two sisters, Anneth and Easter, who are deeply bonded yet distinctly different. The story follows their journey as they navigate through troubled times shaped by the tragedy of coal mining, making decisions that could forever alter their relationship. Silas House intricately brings readers into the hearts and minds of the characters, providing depth and soul to each sister, making the readers care deeply about their lives and struggles. The narrative explores themes of love, sacrifice, family, and the impact of coal mining on the characters' past, present, and future.

    In The Coal Tattoo, Silas House skillfully weaves a story that captures the essence of everyday life in Kentucky, portraying the characters' ups and downs with a touch of reality and depth. The author's magic with words shines through as he paints vivid pictures with language, creating a beautiful and moving narrative that resonates with readers. The book beautifully depicts the love between the two sisters, their struggles, sacrifices, and the unwavering strength they find in their deep bond, despite facing insurmountable adversity.


  2. #2

    The Dollmaker by Harriette Simpson Arnow
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    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.

    DOCK’S SHOES ON THE rocks up the hill and his heavy breathing had shut out all sound so that it seemed a long while she had heard nothing, and Amos lay too still, not clawing at the blanket as when th...

  3. 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.

    This descent into himself will, at the same time, be a descent into his region. It will be a descent through the darkness of the familiar into a world where, like the blind man cured in the gospels, h...

  4. #4

    The Education of Little Tree by Forrest Carter
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    The Education of Little Tree is a heartwarming story set in the Tennessee Appalachians during the 1930s, following a young Native American boy named Little Tree who is raised by his Cherokee grandparents after the death of his parents. The book delves into themes of family, culture, and the impact of institutions on Indigenous families, providing readers with a glimpse into the life of a child navigating his way through challenging circumstances with the guidance of his wise grandparents.

    The writing style of The Education of Little Tree is described as charming, funny, and entertaining, offering practical wisdom and love passed down from grandfather to grandson. The story touches on poignant topics such as living and dying, family relationships, and the connection to nature, creating an emotional impact that resonates with readers long after they finish the book.


  5. #5

    The Stories of Breece D'J Pancake by Breece D'J Pancake
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    'The Stories of Breece D'J Pancake' is a collection of short stories that delve into the dark corners of West Virginia, exploring themes of life, death, and the human condition. Through his spare and unblinking prose, Breece D'J Pancake paints a vivid picture of rural Appalachia, capturing the struggles and complexities of his characters with raw authenticity. The stories vary in subject matter, from encounters with old loves to reflections on war and mortality, leaving a lasting impression on readers long after they have finished the book.

    I think you should come over (drive or train, I’ll pay your expenses and “put you up”) because if you do the preface I feel you should be more familiar with this valley and [my son] Breece’s surroundi...

  6. #6

    Wish You Well by David Baldacci
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    After a tragic accident in New York, 12-year-old Louisa Mae, her brother Oz, and their invalid mother must go live on their great-grandmother's farm in the Virginia mountains. The story follows the children's journey of adapting to a new life in the Appalachian mountains, filled with hardships, friendships, and the love of family. Set in the 1940s, the book portrays the struggles and triumphs of the Cardinal family, emphasizing themes of family, faith, and home.

    The narrative of "Wish You Well" by David Baldacci delves into the lives of Lou and Oz as they navigate the challenges of their new environment, learn the value of hard work, and experience the close-knit community in Virginia. Through the eyes of the children, readers witness a coming-of-age story that explores themes of loss, resilience, and the power of family bonds in the backdrop of the Appalachian mountains.

    The air was moist, the coming rain telegraphed by plump, gray clouds, and the blue sky fast fading. The 1936 four-door Lincoln Zephyr sedan moved down the winding road at a decent, if unhurried, pace....

  7. #7

    Jayber Crow by Wendell Berry
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    "Jayber Crow" by Wendell Berry is a novel that follows the life story of Jayber Crow, a barber in the small town of Port William, Kentucky. The book is narrated in the first person by Jayber, who reflects on his experiences from childhood to old age, offering insights into love, friendship, and community. Through Jayber's observations, readers are taken on a journey through the changing landscapes of rural America in the 20th century, touching on themes of progress, farming, and the impact of societal changes on small-town life. The writing style is described as reflective, quiet, and contemplative, with rich descriptions that immerse readers in the world of Port William.

    I never put up a barber pole or a sign or even gave my shop a name. I didn’t have to. The building was already called “the barbershop.” That was its name because that had been its name for nobody knew...

  8. #8

    Christy by Catherine Marshall
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    Christy by Catherine Marshall is a fictionalized account based on the author's mother's experiences teaching in a one-room schoolhouse in the Great Smokey Mountains of Tennessee in 1912. The story follows a young woman named Christy, who leaves her privileged life to teach in the Appalachian mountains, encountering poverty, superstitions, and the rugged mountain people. Through her journey, Christy learns spiritual lessons, grows to love the community, and finds her faith and place in the world.

    The book is a blend of historical fiction and true events, portraying Christy's struggles and triumphs as she navigates the challenges of her new environment. The narrative captures the essence of the Tennessee mountain people during the early 20th century, highlighting the beauty of the area and the genuine love the author has for the characters and the setting.

    Only my father saw me to the Asheville station that Sunday morning in 1912. Mother had gotten up early to fix us a hot breakfast. It was one of those moments that would be as sharp and real in my mind ...

  9. #9

    The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes
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    'The Giver of Stars' by Jojo Moyes is a historical fiction novel set in rural Kentucky during the Great Depression, focusing on a group of women who become packhorse librarians as part of Eleanor Roosevelt's WPA program. The story follows Englishwoman Alice, who finds herself in an unhappy marriage and discovers purpose and friendship through the packhorse library program. Led by the bold and unconventional Margery, the librarians face challenges from the conservative locals, leading to a murder trial that tests their bonds and beliefs.

    It was, everyone agreed, fanning themselves outside the store or passing in the shade of the eucalyptus trees, unseasonably warm for September. The meeting hall at Baileyville was thick with the smell...

  10. 'Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis' by J.D. Vance is a memoir that offers a glimpse into the life of the author as a hillbilly, shedding light on the struggles of the white working class in rural America. The book delves into Vance's personal experiences growing up in the Rust Belt, highlighting issues such as unstable family structures, drug abuse, and the importance of strong family bonds. Vance reflects on the culture of poverty and the challenges faced by individuals trying to break free from its cycle, drawing parallels between his own upbringing and the broader societal issues affecting working-class whites.

    The narrative of 'Hillbilly Elegy' oscillates between being a personal memoir and a sociological study, providing insights into the complexities of the white working class while also sharing Vance's journey of overcoming obstacles to achieve success. The author's writing style is described as direct, honest, and compelling, offering a raw portrayal of life in Appalachia and the struggles faced by individuals trying to navigate poverty, addiction, and limited opportunities for advancement.

    Like most small children, I learned my home address so that if I got lost, I could tell a grown-up where to take me. In kindergarten, when the teacher asked me where I lived, I could recite the addres...

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