I just finished The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson.
It is one of the most memorable books I have read in a long time.
It is a novel based on the real story of the Blue People of Kentucky. A recessive gene caused a blood disorder that made their skin turn blue. The main character, Cussy Mary, is one of the blue people.
Cussy Mary is a Packhorse Librarian. These were brave, smart women whose job it was to carry books into remote areas of the Appalachian Mountains between 1935 and 1943. The project was a part of the WPA.
As every librarian knows — the right book, in the right hands, at the right time can make a big difference.
The setting is in 1936 and its story of time and place and people makes the book a treasure.
I guess I could sum this book up faster by saying it is about humanity and inhumanity. It gives the reader a lot to think about — past and present.
Boomer
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