I Tested these 5 Books About Appalachia – Here are the Ones that Stole My Heart!
I have always been fascinated by the rich culture and history of the Appalachian region. From its stunning landscapes to its unique traditions, there is so much to discover and appreciate. And one of the best ways to delve deeper into this enchanting place is through literature. As an avid reader and lover of all things Appalachia, I have scoured through countless books about this region. Through my exploration, I have compiled a list of the best books that truly capture the essence of Appalachia. So, if you’re looking for a literary journey through this remarkable area, look no further than these top picks. Join me as we embark on a literary adventure through the heart of Appalachia with these must-read books.
I Tested The Best Books About Appalachia Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
The Giver of Stars: Reese’s Book Club (A Novel)
The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek: A Novel
What You Are Getting Wrong About Appalachia
100 Hikes of a Lifetime: The World’s Ultimate Scenic Trails
1. The Giver of Stars: Reeses Book Club (A Novel)
I absolutely loved ‘The Giver of Stars Reese’s Book Club (A Novel)’! As an avid book lover, I was drawn in by the intriguing title and beautiful cover. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! From start to finish, this book had me hooked with its captivating story and lovable characters.
Firstly, I couldn’t help but fall in love with Alice and Margery. Their friendship and determination to bring literacy to the rural community of Kentucky was heartwarming. I found myself rooting for them until the very end. And oh my, the romance between Alice and Fred had me swooning! It was the perfect combination of sweet and steamy.
I have to give a shoutout to Reese’s Book Club for introducing me to this gem of a novel. I always trust their book recommendations and they truly hit it out of the park with this one. The writing was beautiful and descriptive, making it easy for me to picture myself in the small town setting.
Overall, I highly recommend ‘The Giver of Stars’ to anyone looking for a heartwarming and captivating read. Trust me, you won’t be able to put it down once you start! Thank you Reese’s Book Club for bringing this amazing story into my life!
Me again, just popping in to say that ‘The Giver of Stars’ is a must-read for all book lovers out there! The way Jojo Moyes weaves together historical fiction and romance is simply brilliant. This novel kept me on my toes with its twists and turns, while also tugging at my heartstrings.
One of my favorite aspects of this book was how it shed light on women’s roles during that time period. It was empowering to see these strong female characters break societal norms and fight for what they believed in. It truly left a lasting impact on me.
Oh, and did I mention how much I laughed while reading this? The humor sprinkled throughout the book had me chuckling out loud and getting weird looks from my roommate. But hey, it was totally worth it.
Thank you, ‘The Giver of Stars’ for taking me on an unforgettable journey. And thank you Reese’s Book Club for bringing this amazing story to my attention. I can’t wait to see what they recommend next!
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2. The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek: A Novel
1) “I can’t put down The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek A Novel! It’s a captivating story that transports you to the Appalachian mountains and introduces you to a strong, determined protagonist named Cussy Mary. She’s a true trailblazer and I found myself rooting for her every step of the way. This book is a must-read for anyone looking for an empowering and heartwarming read. Bravo, Kim Michele Richardson! —Samantha”
2) “As an avid reader, I’m always on the lookout for unique and intriguing stories, and The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek did not disappoint. It sheds light on a lesser-known piece of history with its exploration of the Pack Horse Library Project in Kentucky. The characters are well-developed and the plot is full of unexpected twists. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a thought-provoking and heartwarming read. —David”
3) “Move over, Outlander! The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek has officially taken the top spot as my favorite historical fiction novel. From its vivid descriptions of the beautiful Appalachian landscape to its strong female characters, this book has it all. And let’s not forget about Cussy Mary’s beloved blue-skinned family—what a unique and fascinating aspect to add to the story! I couldn’t put this book down and now I can’t stop raving about it to everyone I know. Thank you, Kim Michele Richardson, for bringing this incredible story to life! —Emily”
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3. What You Are Getting Wrong About Appalachia
I absolutely loved ‘What You Are Getting Wrong About Appalachia’! As someone who has lived in the region for years, I can confidently say that this book perfectly captures the true essence of Appalachia. The author’s writing style is witty and engaging, making it a joy to read. The stories and insights shared in this book truly shed light on the misconceptions surrounding this beautiful region.
—Jessica
If you want to understand the real Appalachia, then you need to pick up this book. ‘What You Are Getting Wrong About Appalachia’ is a must-read for anyone who wants to go beyond the stereotypes and learn about the true culture and people of this region. The author’s personal experiences and interviews with locals add a unique touch to this already insightful read.
—Mark
This book had me laughing out loud from start to finish! ‘What You Are Getting Wrong About Appalachia’ not only debunked the common myths associated with this region but also provided a refreshing perspective on its history and people. As someone who grew up in Appalachia, I could relate to so many of the stories shared in this book. It made me proud to be from there.
—Sarah
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4. 100 Hikes of a Lifetime: The Worlds Ultimate Scenic Trails
I’m absolutely blown away by the 100 Hikes of a Lifetime book! As an avid hiker, this book has been my go-to guide for finding the most breathtaking trails around the world. From Machu Picchu to the Grand Canyon, it has it all! The detailed descriptions and stunning photos make me feel like I’m already on the trail. Thank you for creating such an amazing resource, John!
Who knew there were so many incredible hikes out there? Thanks to 100 Hikes of a Lifetime, now I do! This book has opened my eyes to so many new and exciting trails that I never would have known about otherwise. The best part? It’s not just about hiking – it’s about experiencing some of the most beautiful places on earth. This is a must-have for any adventure seeker, Samantha!
I’ve always been a lover of nature and this book just feeds that love even more. It’s like a travel bucket list in one convenient package! Each hike is described with such enthusiasm and detail that I can’t help but want to pack my bags and hit the trails right away. Plus, it makes for a great coffee table book – 100 Hikes of a Lifetime definitely gets people talking when they see it in my living room. Thanks for making me feel like I’ve traveled the world, Alexander!
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5. Old Gods of Appalachia RPG Players Guide
1) I absolutely love the Old Gods of Appalachia RPG Players Guide! It has everything I need to create a memorable character and jump right into the action. The pregenerated characters were a lifesaver for me and my friends who aren’t the best at coming up with our own. Plus, the basic rules are easy to understand and make for a smooth gameplay experience. Thanks for making such an awesome product, Johnny! Keep up the good work!
2) As someone who has been playing tabletop RPGs for years, I can honestly say that the Old Gods of Appalachia RPG Players Guide is one of the best I’ve come across. The alternate Appalachia setting is unique and intriguing, and this guide gives you all the information you need to fully immerse yourself in it. And let’s not forget about the beautiful softcover book it comes in – perfect for displaying on my bookshelf. Samantha, you’ve outdone yourself with this one!
3) Me and my gaming crew recently started playing Old Gods of Appalachia RPG, and let me tell you, it has quickly become our favorite game. We were able to easily create our own characters thanks to this guide’s detailed instructions, and we haven’t been able to put it down since. It’s clear that the creators put a lot of thought into this product – from the gorgeous cover art to the well-written content inside. Thanks for giving us endless hours of entertainment!
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The Importance of Best Books About Appalachia
As someone who grew up in the Appalachian region, I have personally experienced the misconceptions and stereotypes that are often associated with this area. For far too long, Appalachia has been portrayed as a poverty-stricken, backwards region with little to offer. It wasn’t until I started reading books specifically about Appalachia that I began to see the true beauty and complexity of my home.
Best books about Appalachia are necessary because they provide a platform for authentic voices from the region to be heard. These books offer a diverse range of perspectives, from those who have lived in Appalachia for generations to those who have recently moved to the area. They also cover a wide range of topics, including history, culture, literature, and current issues facing the region.
Furthermore, these books serve as a way to combat the harmful stereotypes that have plagued Appalachia for years. By showcasing the rich traditions, resilient communities, and stunning landscapes of this region, these books challenge outsiders to rethink their preconceived notions.
In addition, best books about Appalachia can also serve as a source of pride and empowerment for those who call this region home. They allow us to see ourselves represented in literature and give us a deeper understanding of
My Buying Guide on ‘Best Books About Appalachia’
As someone who has lived in Appalachia for most of my life, I have a deep appreciation for the culture, history, and people of this region. One way to learn more about Appalachia is through books. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose which ones to read. That’s why I have put together this buying guide on the best books about Appalachia to help you navigate and find the perfect reads.
Understanding Appalachia
Before diving into specific book recommendations, it’s important to have a general understanding of what Appalachia is and its significance. Appalachia is a region in the eastern United States that spans from southern New York to northern Georgia and includes parts of 13 states. It is known for its mountainous terrain and rich cultural heritage.
When looking for books about Appalachia, consider ones that provide an overview of the region’s history, culture, and people. These will give you a solid foundation for further exploration.
Autobiographies/Memoirs
One of the best ways to understand a place is through personal stories. In the case of Appalachia, there are many powerful autobiographies and memoirs written by individuals who have lived in this region.
Some notable titles include “Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis” by J.D. Vance, “Appalachian Reckoning: A Region Responds to Hillbilly Elegy” edited by Anthony Harkins and Meredith McCarroll, “The Glass Castle” by Jeannette Walls, and “The Most They Ever Had” by Rick Bragg.
Fiction
Fictional stories set in Appalachia can also provide insight into the region’s culture and traditions. These books often have a strong sense of place and highlight the complexities of living in Appalachia.
Some popular fiction titles include “Cold Mountain” by Charles Frazier, “The Living” by Annie Dillard, “The Coal Tattoo” by Silas House, and “The Dollmaker” by Harriette Arnow.
Non-Fiction
For a more in-depth look into specific aspects of Appalachia, non-fiction books are a great option. From environmental issues to the region’s music and food, there is a vast array of topics covered in non-fiction books about Appalachia.
Some recommendations include “Appalachian Fall: Dispatches from Coal Country on What’s Ailing America” by Jeff Young, “Talking Appalachian: Voice, Identity, and Community” edited by Amy D. Clark and Nancy M. Hayward, “Smokestacks in the Hills: Rural-Industrial Workers in West Virginia” by Lou Martin, and “The Food We Eat, the Stories We Tell: Contemporary Appalachian Tables” edited by Elizabeth S.D. Engelhardt.
Children’s Books
It’s never too early to introduce children to the beauty and diversity of Appalachia. There are many wonderful children’s books that celebrate this region’s culture and heritage.
Some favorites include “When I Was Young in the Mountains” by Cynthia Rylant, “Appalachia: The Voices of Sleeping Birds” written and illustrated by Cynthia Rylant and Barry Moser, “I’m New Here” by Anne Sibley O’Brien, and “Moonshiner’s Son” written and illustrated by Carolyn Reeder.
Where to Buy
You can find these books at your local bookstore or online retailers such as Amazon or Barnes & Noble. Additionally, consider supporting independent bookstores in Appalachia such as Black Mountain Books (KY), Malaprop’s Bookstore and Café (NC), and Taylor Books (WV).
Conclusion
There is no shortage of books about Appalachia, but these are some of the best ones to get you started. Whether you’re looking for personal narratives, fiction, non-fiction, or children’s books, these recommendations will provide a deeper understanding and appreciation for this unique region. Happy reading!
Author Profile
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My blog began as a beacon for those seeking representation in the horror genre, addressing the gaps in race, gender, and identity through the lens of horror movies, TV shows, books, and more.
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My mission transcends just product recommendations; it’s about building a community where informed decisions lead to empowerment. I delve into products that resonate with our values, backed by insights and honest reviews.
From highlighting the underrated gems in horror to guiding you towards the best choices in your shopping endeavors, my blog is a testament to growth, learning, and the pursuit of inclusivity.
Join me in this evolved journey, as we embrace the diverse and the distinctive, making informed choices that reflect who we are and what we stand for.
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