Are you a fan of Kentucky history, culture, and literature? Look no further than this curated list of the 20 best books about Kentucky. Whether you’re interested in exploring the state’s rich heritage, delving into its captivating stories, or simply looking for a great book on Kentucky to add to your collection, this list has something for everyone. From acclaimed novels to insightful non-fiction, these Kentucky books are sure to transport you to the heart of the Bluegrass State. Let’s dive in and discover the best of what Kentucky literature has to offer!
The Sport of Kings by C. E. Morgan is an epic and powerful novel that delves into the world of horse racing in the American South. Set in a fictitious county in the heart of Bluegrass Country, this book on Kentucky explores the intertwined lives of a wealthy, dysfunctional family and their passion for horse breeding and racing. The novel paints a vivid picture of the beauty and brutality of the sport, as well as the dark legacy of slavery and racism that still haunts the land. With lyrical prose and intricate storytelling, The Sport of Kings is a compelling and thought-provoking read that delves into the complexities of family, race, and the pursuit of glory in the Kentucky landscape.
Hillbilly Elegy is a compelling memoir by J. D. Vance that delves into the author’s upbringing in rural Appalachia, offering an intimate look at the struggles and triumphs of the working-class families in Kentucky. The book paints a vivid picture of the unique culture and challenges faced by those living in the region, exploring themes of poverty, family dynamics, and the pursuit of the American Dream. With raw honesty and insight, Vance reflects on his own journey from a turbulent childhood to achieving success, while grappling with the complexities of his heritage. Hillbilly Elegy is a poignant and thought-provoking book about Kentucky that offers a powerful exploration of identity, resilience, and the impact of one’s roots.
The Bourbon Thief by Tiffany Reisz is a captivating novel that delves into the dark secrets and scandals of a wealthy Kentucky bourbon dynasty. This book on Kentucky is a gripping tale of love, betrayal, and family secrets that spans generations. The story unfolds as a young woman named Cooper McQueen becomes embroiled in the mysteries of the Maddox family and their renowned bourbon distillery. Through the alternating narratives of Cooper and a mysterious woman named Bourbon, the novel weaves a complex and enthralling tale of passion, deceit, and redemption. Set against the backdrop of the lush Kentucky countryside, this book about Kentucky offers a rich and evocative portrayal of the region’s history and culture. With its compelling characters and intricate plot, The Bourbon Thief is a must-read for anyone looking for a riveting Kentucky book.
The Sisters Brothers by Patrick deWitt is a darkly comic and captivating novel set during the Gold Rush era in the American West. The story follows the adventures of the notorious hired killers, Eli and Charlie Sisters, as they journey from Oregon to California to carry out their latest hit. The novel is a gritty and atmospheric portrayal of the Old West, with its vividly drawn characters and evocative landscapes. DeWitt’s writing is both lyrical and brutal, and the novel is filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep the reader on the edge of their seat. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in a thrilling and unconventional take on the classic Western genre. It’s a perfect read for those who love a book about Kentucky.
The Coal Tattoo by Silas House is a captivating book on Kentucky that delves into the complexities of family, love, and the impact of coal mining on the Appalachian region. Set in the heart of the mountains, this poignant book about Kentucky follows the lives of two sisters, Anneth and Easter, as they navigate the challenges of their environment and the secrets that bind them together. House’s lyrical prose and vivid descriptions bring the Kentucky book to life, immersing readers in the rich culture and traditions of the region. With themes of resilience, loss, and the enduring power of family, The Coal Tattoo is a compelling portrayal of life in the Appalachian mountains and a testament to the enduring spirit of the people who call it home.
The Memory of Old Jack by Wendell Berry is a poignant and reflective book about Kentucky that delves into the life of the titular character, Old Jack Beechum. Set in the fictional town of Port William, this novel explores the struggles, triumphs, and memories of Old Jack as he looks back on his life in rural Kentucky. Through Berry’s lyrical prose, readers are transported to a bygone era, where the beauty and hardships of Kentucky life are vividly portrayed. The novel offers a powerful meditation on the passage of time, the connection to the land, and the resilience of the human spirit. With its evocative storytelling and rich sense of place, The Memory of Old Jack is a must-read for anyone seeking a deep and moving portrayal of life in rural Kentucky.
The Patron Saint of Liars is a captivating novel by Ann Patchett that takes place in the heart of the Bluegrass State. Set in a home for unwed mothers in a small town in Kentucky, this book explores the themes of love, longing, and the complexities of human relationships. The story follows Rose, a young woman who seeks refuge at the home, and the lives of the people she encounters there. Patchett’s vivid descriptions and rich character development bring the beauty and charm of the Kentucky countryside to life, making the setting as much a character as the people themselves. The Patron Saint of Liars is a poignant and thought-provoking book about Kentucky that will transport readers to a world filled with love, secrets, and the enduring power of forgiveness.
The Bean Trees is a captivating novel by Barbara Kingsolver that takes readers on a journey to the heart of the Bluegrass State, also known as the ‘book on Kentucky.’ The story follows the life of Taylor Greer, a young woman who leaves her small town in search of a better life and finds herself in the heart of rural Kentucky, a ‘kentucky book.’ Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Kentucky landscape, the novel explores themes of love, family, and the power of friendship. Kingsolver’s vivid storytelling and rich character development make this a compelling ‘book about Kentucky’ that will leave readers feeling deeply connected to the land and its people.
The Unquiet Grave: A Word Cycle by Palinurus is a fascinating exploration of love, loss, and the passage of time. Set in the lush landscapes of the Bluegrass State, this book about Kentucky delves into the complexities of human emotions and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. Through poetic prose and introspective musings, Cyril Connolly takes readers on a profound journey through the Kentucky countryside, offering insight into the human condition and the enduring power of love and loss. With its lyrical language and evocative imagery, this Kentucky book is a captivating read that will resonate with anyone who has experienced the tumultuous depths of the heart.
The Kentucky Cycle is an epic play by Robert Schenkkan that spans over 200 years of American history, focusing on the lives of three families in eastern Kentucky. This Pulitzer Prize-winning play is a powerful and captivating exploration of the intertwined destinies of the Rowen, Talbert, and Biggs families, as they navigate through love, betrayal, and the pursuit of the American dream. The play vividly portrays the struggles and triumphs of the people living in the Appalachian region, shedding light on themes of land ownership, the clash between progress and tradition, and the cyclical nature of violence and retribution. With its rich storytelling and compelling characters, The Kentucky Cycle is a must-read for anyone interested in American history and the complexities of life in the kentucky wilderness.
The Death of Sweet Mister by Daniel Woodrell is a captivating book set in the heart of the Bluegrass State. This gripping novel, also known as a book on Kentucky, tells the story of Shug, a young boy growing up in the rural hills of the South. As he navigates the challenges of his tumultuous family life and the complexities of adolescence, Shug is forced to confront the harsh realities of his world. Through Woodrell’s vivid prose and deeply evocative storytelling, readers are transported to the rugged landscapes and close-knit communities of Kentucky. This powerful book about Kentucky explores themes of love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit. With its rich sense of place and compelling characters, The Death of Sweet Mister is a must-read for anyone seeking a poignant and authentic portrayal of life in the heart of the Bluegrass State.
The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson is a captivating book about Kentucky that follows the story of Cussy Mary Carter, a young woman who defies the odds to become a pack horse librarian in the remote hills of Kentucky in the 1930s. Known as the “Blue People” due to a rare genetic condition that gives their skin a blue tint, Cussy faces prejudice and discrimination as she delivers books to the isolated communities of the Appalachian mountains. Despite the challenges, she finds solace in the power of literacy and the connections she forms with the people she serves. Richardson’s novel beautifully captures the spirit of the Kentucky mountains and the resilience of its people, making it a must-read for anyone interested in a book on Kentucky or historical fiction set in a unique and evocative setting.
The Secret Wisdom of the Earth is a captivating book set in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, a stunning novel about Kentucky that explores family, friendship, and the power of nature. The story follows Kevin and his grandfather as they seek solace in the mountains after a tragic family loss. As they immerse themselves in the beauty of the landscape, they uncover the hidden secrets of the land and its people. Christopher Scotton’s vivid descriptions bring the Kentucky setting to life, making the reader feel as if they are standing among the rolling hills and lush forests. This Kentucky book is a poignant and powerful exploration of love, loss, and the healing power of nature, making it a must-read for anyone who appreciates a beautifully written and evocative story.
The Dark-Thirty: Southern Tales of the Supernatural
by Patricia C. McKissack
The Dark-Thirty: Southern Tales of the Supernatural, authored by Patricia C. McKissack, is a captivating collection of spine-tingling stories set in the American South. This book on Kentucky folklore and ghost stories, filled with mystery and intrigue, explores the supernatural experiences and legends deeply rooted in the region’s history. McKissack weaves together a tapestry of haunting tales that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Through her vivid storytelling, she brings to life the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the South, offering a glimpse into the eerie and enigmatic world of the supernatural. Perfect for those seeking a thrilling and immersive reading experience, this book about Kentucky is a must-read for fans of ghost stories and folklore enthusiasts alike.
The Last Town on Earth by Thomas Mullen is a gripping book about a small community in the state of Kentucky. Set during the 1918 influenza pandemic, the town of Commonwealth enforces strict quarantine measures to keep the virus at bay. When a stranger arrives seeking refuge, the town faces a moral dilemma that will test their unity and loyalty. Mullen’s vivid prose and well-researched historical backdrop bring this book on Kentucky to life, exploring themes of fear, isolation, and the resilience of the human spirit. The Last Town on Earth is a thought-provoking read that delves into the complexities of human nature and the impact of external threats on a close-knit community.
The Memory Keeper’s Daughter by Kim Edwards is a captivating book about Kentucky that delves into the complexities of family, secrets, and the impact of our choices. Set against the backdrop of 1960s Kentucky, the story follows Dr. David Henry, who makes a split-second decision to send his newborn daughter, born with Down syndrome, to an institution while telling his wife she died during childbirth. The repercussions of this decision ripple through the lives of the characters, exploring themes of love, loss, and the enduring power of truth. Edwards weaves a poignant and thought-provoking narrative that will leave readers questioning the consequences of our actions and the resilience of the human spirit. The book on Kentucky is a powerful exploration of the bonds that shape us and the secrets that can tear us apart.
The Lost Get-Back Boogie by James Lee Burke is a gripping novel set in the heart of the Bluegrass State. This compelling book on Kentucky follows the story of Iry Paret, a man who is released from prison after serving time for manslaughter. As he returns to his hometown, he grapples with the ghosts of his past and the challenges of starting over. The novel delves into the complexities of small-town life, the allure of the Kentucky landscape, and the struggle for redemption. Burke’s vivid prose and deep understanding of the human condition make this book about Kentucky a captivating and thought-provoking read. The Lost Get-Back Boogie is a poignant and unforgettable tale that will resonate with readers long after they turn the final page.
The Dollmaker by Harriette Arnow is a compelling book on Kentucky that follows the journey of Gertie Nevels, a strong-willed woman from the hills of Kentucky who moves to Detroit during World War II. As she faces the challenges of urban life and the war’s impact on her family, Gertie clings to her Appalachian roots and her talent for carving dolls. Arnow’s vivid descriptions and authentic portrayal of Appalachian culture make this a captivating book about Kentucky. The novel beautifully captures the struggles and resilience of a fiercely independent woman in the face of change. The Dollmaker is a powerful and timeless story that offers a glimpse into the heart and soul of the Kentucky mountains.
American Buffalo: In Search of a Lost Icon by Steven Rinella is a captivating exploration of the history, culture, and significance of the American bison. Rinella takes readers on a thrilling journey through the plains of the American West, delving into the complex relationship between humans and this iconic animal. The book is a powerful blend of natural history, adventure, and conservation, offering a deep understanding of the bison’s role in shaping the American landscape. Rinella’s vivid storytelling and passion for the subject make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the wild and untamed spirit of the American West. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply curious about the fascinating world of the bison, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Night Comes to the Cumberlands: A Biography of a Depressed Area
by Harry M. Caudill
Night Comes to the Cumberlands: A Biography of a Depressed Area by Harry M. Caudill is a compelling book about Kentucky that delves into the history and struggles of the region. Caudill, a native of the area, provides a vivid portrayal of the economic, social, and environmental challenges faced by the people of the Appalachians. Through extensive research and personal insight, the author brings to light the impact of industrialization, poverty, and political neglect on the region. Caudill’s poignant storytelling and deep understanding of the Kentucky landscape make this book a powerful exploration of a neglected corner of America. Whether you’re interested in regional history, social issues, or environmental justice, Night Comes to the Cumberlands offers a thought-provoking and eye-opening perspective on the struggles of the Kentucky Appalachians.
Conclusion
Exploring the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of Kentucky through literature is a fascinating journey. The 20 best books about Kentucky offer a diverse range of perspectives and experiences, capturing the essence of the Bluegrass State. From captivating memoirs to gripping historical fiction, these books showcase the unique charm and character of Kentucky. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply love a good story, these books are sure to transport you to the heart of Kentucky. Dive into these captivating reads and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Bluegrass State.
Which Kentucky book is best?
The best book on Kentucky can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Kentucky?
For those looking to learn about Kentucky, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of Kentucky are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best Kentucky books of all time?
Choosing the best Kentucky books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include
