Are you looking to immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Appalachia? Look no further than these 20 best books about Appalachia. From fiction to non-fiction, these books offer a deep dive into the traditions, struggles, and triumphs of the Appalachian region. Whether you’re a history buff, a literature lover, or simply curious about this unique corner of the country, there’s a book on Appalachia for you. Let’s explore the top 20 must-read Appalachia books that will transport you to this fascinating and often misunderstood part of America.
Hillbilly Elegy by J.D. Vance is a powerful memoir that delves into the author’s upbringing in the heart of Appalachia. This raw and poignant account provides a window into the struggles and complexities of the working-class families in the region. Through his personal experiences and family dynamics, Vance explores the cultural and social challenges that shape the lives of those in Appalachia. With vivid storytelling and introspective reflections, the book offers a compelling narrative that sheds light on the resilience and hardships of a community often misunderstood by the outside world. Hillbilly Elegy is a thought-provoking and insightful book about Appalachia that captures the essence of the region and its people with empathy and authenticity.
The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls is a captivating memoir that takes readers on a poignant journey through the author’s tumultuous childhood in the rural mountains of Appalachia. This powerful book about Appalachia paints a vivid picture of Walls’ unconventional and often chaotic upbringing, as she and her siblings navigate poverty, neglect, and their eccentric, free-spirited parents. Walls’ poignant storytelling and resilience in the face of adversity make this a compelling and unforgettable read. The Glass Castle offers a raw and unflinching portrayal of life in the mountains, and it is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to endure and overcome. This book on Appalachia will leave you with a profound appreciation for the strength and resilience of the human spirit.
The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson is a compelling book on Appalachia that tells the story of Cussy Mary Carter, a pack horse librarian in 1930s Kentucky. Cussy faces prejudice not only because of her job, but also because of her unique blue skin, a condition passed down through generations of her family. Despite the challenges, Cussy is determined to bring the joy of reading to the isolated and impoverished people of the Appalachian Mountains. As she travels through the rugged terrain, she encounters both kindness and cruelty, but never loses her passion for books and literacy. This book about Appalachia is a powerful and inspiring tale of resilience, community, and the transformative power of literature in the face of adversity.
The Devil All the Time, a novel by Donald Ray Pollock, is a dark and gritty book set in the rural and remote areas of the Appalachian region. The story follows a cast of characters whose lives become intertwined in a web of violence, crime, and religious fanaticism. The novel delves into the sinister and disturbing aspects of life in the Appalachian hinterlands, exploring themes of faith, morality, and the human capacity for evil. With its haunting and atmospheric storytelling, The Devil All the Time is a compelling and harrowing read that offers a glimpse into the darker side of the Appalachian landscape.
The Unquiet Earth, written by Denise Giardina, is a powerful and moving book set in the mountains of West Virginia, a region often overlooked and misunderstood. This captivating novel delves into the lives of the people of the Appalachian region, exploring their struggles, resilience, and the impact of coal mining on their community. Through the eyes of the protagonist, we witness the harsh realities of life in Appalachia, the complexities of family and relationships, and the fight for justice in the face of exploitation. Giardina’s vivid prose and deep understanding of the region make this a compelling and enlightening read. The Unquiet Earth is a must-read for anyone interested in a thought-provoking book about Appalachia.
The Coal Tattoo by Silas House is a poignant and heart-wrenching book about life in the Appalachian region. Set in Kentucky, this novel delves into the lives of two sisters, Anneth and Easter, who are deeply affected by the coal mining industry and its impact on their community. House’s writing beautifully captures the complexities of family relationships, love, loss, and the struggle for justice in a region deeply rooted in tradition and hardship. Through lyrical prose and compelling storytelling, The Coal Tattoo offers a powerful and intimate portrait of the Appalachian way of life, shedding light on the resilience and struggles of its people. This is a must-read for anyone interested in a deeply moving and evocative book about Appalachia.
The Weight of Blood by Laura McHugh is a gripping mystery set in the rugged terrain of the Ozarks, a compelling book about Appalachia. The story follows Lucy Dane as she delves into the dark secrets of her hometown and her mother’s disappearance. As she uncovers the truth, she realizes that the people she thought she could trust may be hiding sinister truths. McHugh skillfully weaves together multiple timelines and perspectives, creating a haunting and atmospheric tale that explores the complexities of family, loyalty, and the Appalachia book. The novel’s vivid portrayal of the rural landscape and its inhabitants adds depth and authenticity to the narrative, making it a must-read for fans of suspenseful and evocative storytelling.
The Ballad of Tom Dooley by Sharyn McCrumb is a captivating book about Appalachia that delves into the true story of the infamous Tom Dooley. Set in the rugged and hauntingly beautiful mountains of North Carolina, this historical novel weaves together the tale of love, betrayal, and murder that shook the region in the 1860s. McCrumb skillfully brings to life the complex characters and the rich cultural landscape of the Appalachia book, immersing readers in the customs and hardships of the time. Through her lyrical prose, she explores the enduring mystery and the tragic events that have become part of the book on Appalachia’s folklore. The Ballad of Tom Dooley is a haunting and evocative read that offers a fresh perspective on a well-known legend.
The Secret Wisdom of the Earth by Christopher Scotton is a captivating book about Appalachia, weaving together the beauty of nature with the harsh realities of life in the mountains. Set in a small town in the Kentucky mountains, the novel follows a young boy named Kevin and his friend Buzzy as they navigate the complexities of growing up in a community plagued by tragedy and loss. As the boys embark on a journey through the wilderness, they encounter the healing power of the natural world and the wisdom it holds. Scotton’s vivid descriptions of the Appalachian landscape and the authentic portrayal of its people make this a poignant and unforgettable read. This powerful coming-of-age story is an exploration of friendship, grief, and the resilience of the human spirit, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the Appalachian region.
The Cove by Ron Rash is a captivating book about Appalachia set in the rugged mountains of North Carolina during World War I. This haunting and atmospheric novel follows the lives of Laurel, a young woman living in isolation, and Hank, a war veteran scarred by his experiences in the trenches. When Laurel discovers a mysterious stranger in the woods near her home, she must confront the secrets of her past and the dangers of the present. Rash’s evocative prose brings to life the beauty and brutality of the Appalachian landscape, as well as the struggles of its inhabitants. The Cove is a powerful and gripping tale of love, loss, and redemption in the heart of the mountains. This book on Appalachia will transport you to a world that is both enchanting and unforgiving.
The Last Ballad by Wiley Cash is a compelling novel set in the Appalachian region of North Carolina. This powerful story is based on the life of real-life union activist, Ella May Wiggins, and the struggles she faced during the labor movement in the 1920s. Cash’s vivid and evocative writing brings to life the hardships and injustices faced by the working class in the Appalachian mountains. The novel skillfully weaves together themes of poverty, discrimination, and the fight for workers’ rights, making it a captivating and important read for anyone interested in the history of labor movements and the Appalachian region. The Last Ballad is a poignant and gripping book about Appalachia that will resonate with readers long after the final page.
The Story of Edgar Sawtelle by David Wroblewski is a captivating novel set in the rural heartland of America. This powerful coming-of-age tale follows the life of Edgar Sawtelle, a young boy born mute, who grows up on a farm in the hinterland. The novel is a modern reimagining of Shakespeare’s Hamlet, filled with themes of family, loyalty, and the bond between humans and animals. The story is intricately woven with a deep understanding of the human psyche and the natural world. Wroblewski’s lyrical prose and vivid descriptions bring the lush landscapes of the rural Midwest to life, creating an immersive reading experience. This is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a heartfelt story set in the heart of rural America, or is interested in a book about Appalachia.
The Orchardist by Amanda Coplin is a captivating novel set in the rugged and remote landscape of the Pacific Northwest, reminiscent of the Appalachian region. The story follows the solitary and enigmatic William Talmadge, a man who has spent his life tending to his orchard in the untamed wilderness. When two young and pregnant runaway girls seek refuge on his land, Talmadge takes them in, forever altering the course of his life. Coplin beautifully captures the harsh beauty of the landscape and the complexities of human connection in this haunting and evocative tale. The novel delves into themes of family, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in a book about Appalachia or the human experience in a rugged, rural setting.
The Good Lord Bird by James McBride is a captivating and humorous novel set in the tumultuous antebellum era of the United States. The story follows the adventures of Henry Shackleford, a young slave who becomes entangled with the infamous abolitionist John Brown. As they journey through the rugged terrain of the American frontier, Henry masquerades as a girl in order to stay by Brown’s side. McBride’s vivid and lyrical prose brings to life the landscapes of the Appalachian region, immersing readers in the rich historical and cultural tapestry of the area. The novel offers a fresh and insightful perspective on the complex and often overlooked history of the region. The Good Lord Bird is a must-read for anyone interested in a compelling and thought-provoking book on Appalachia.
The Little Friend by Donna Tartt is a gripping novel set in the rural South, specifically in the heart of Appalachia. This coming-of-age story follows twelve-year-old Harriet as she seeks to uncover the truth behind her brother’s mysterious death. As she delves into her family’s dark past, Harriet navigates through the complexities of her small town’s secrets and the web of lies that have haunted her family for years. Tartt’s vivid and atmospheric prose brings the landscape of the Appalachians to life, immersing readers in the rich and evocative setting. With its compelling narrative and richly drawn characters, this book about Appalachia is a captivating exploration of the region’s culture and the human experience.
The Memory Keeper’s Daughter by Kim Edwards is a poignant and captivating novel set in the Appalachian region. The story follows the lives of a family torn apart by a devastating secret. Dr. David Henry makes a fateful decision to send his newborn daughter, born with Down syndrome, to an institution while telling his wife that the baby died. The repercussions of this decision ripple through the lives of the characters, shaping their relationships and identities. As the years pass, the consequences of this act become increasingly profound, and the family must grapple with the weight of their hidden truths. Edwards expertly weaves a narrative of love, loss, and the enduring power of secrets. The Memory Keeper’s Daughter is a mesmerizing exploration of the human heart and the complexities of family relationships, set against the backdrop of the Appalachian mountains.
The Glass Room by Ann Cleeves is a gripping mystery novel set in the picturesque landscape of Northumberland. When a body is discovered in a glass-making studio, Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope is called to investigate. As she delves into the tight-knit community of artists and craftsmen, she uncovers a web of secrets and lies that threaten to shatter the tranquility of the idyllic countryside. With her sharp wit and keen intuition, Vera must navigate the complexities of small-town life to solve the case.
The Night the Lights Went Out by Karen White is a captivating Southern fiction novel that delves into the complexities of small-town life in the rural South. Set in the lush landscapes of the American South, this book on Appalachia weaves together the lives of two women from different generations, as they navigate the secrets, betrayals, and mysteries that have shaped their intertwined destinies. With its richly drawn characters and immersive storytelling, this book about Appalachia offers a compelling exploration of family, friendship, and the enduring bonds that tie us to our roots. Karen White’s evocative prose and vivid sense of place bring the beauty and the darkness of the South to life, making this a must-read for anyone who enjoys a gripping tale set against the backdrop of the Appalachian mountains.
The Silent Sister by Diane Chamberlain is a gripping novel that takes readers on a journey to the rural mountains of Appalachia. This emotional and suspenseful story follows Riley MacPherson as she uncovers family secrets and long-buried truths after the death of her father. As Riley delves into her family’s past, she discovers shocking revelations that challenge everything she thought she knew about her sister’s supposed suicide and her own childhood. The novel weaves together themes of love, betrayal, and the complexities of family relationships, all set against the backdrop of the Appalachian landscape. With its compelling characters and intricate plot, The Silent Sister is a captivating and thought-provoking book about Appalachia that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis
by J.D. Vance
Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis by J.D. Vance is a poignant and raw account of growing up in the hollers of Appalachia. This powerful memoir provides a gripping insight into the struggles and complexities of the Appalachian culture. Through his own personal experiences, Vance explores the challenges of poverty, addiction, and family dynamics that are prevalent in this region. With unflinching honesty, he delves into the impact of his upbringing on his own life, and the wider social issues that plague the Appalachian community. This book about Appalachia is a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of a culture in crisis, and a testament to resilience and the human spirit. Hillbilly Elegy offers a deep and moving portrayal of life in this often misunderstood region.
Conclusion
Exploring the rich history, culture, and landscapes of the Appalachian region, these 20 best books about Appalachia offer a captivating journey through its unique stories and experiences. From memoirs and novels to non-fiction works, these books provide a deep understanding of the Appalachian way of life, making them essential reads for anyone seeking to delve into the heart of this fascinating region.
Which Appalachia book is best?
The best book on Appalachia 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 Appalachia?
For those looking to learn about Appalachia, 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 Appalachia 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 Appalachia books of all time?
Choosing the best Appalachia books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include
