The Librarian of Boone's Hollow

As the weeks have drawn on with sheltering in place, I have found that I have had more time to read and review books.

The Librarian of Boone's Hollow by author Kim Vogel Sawyer, is a story following the Pack Horse Library Project,the real-life WPA program that was developed in the 1930s-1940s. Taking books into the Appalachian coal mining country.

Addie Cowherd finds herself dismissed from the University of Kentucky with only weeks from graduation. Her parents aren't paying tuition. She must put aside her dream of being an author and leave the school to find a job to pay the bill and help her family. 

Upon graduation, Emmett Tharp finds he is unable to get a job with his new degree in commerce. When all else fails, he finds himself working in the coal mines along with his father.

The Appalachian communities are steeped in prejudice and superstitions. But as Addie befriends Nanny Fay, the truth finds its way out in the open. Bettina Webber's life is one of pain and rejection, yet she finds her way by letting go of her prejudice.

This story covers lessons in family, prejudice, and forgiveness. Sawyer weaves faith throughout as each character finds their reliance on God.

"Books, Addie, have the power to change people for the better."  That was precisely the goal of the WPA program. Sawyer's research and writing encapsulated the spirit of the time. I think you will find this to be an intriguing heartwarming read.

I received a copy of the book from WaterBrook & Multnomah via Net Galley. All comments and opinions are solely my own.