The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek is a historical fiction novel written by Kim Michele Richardson. Set in 1936 in rural Kentucky, the story follows the life of Cussy Mary Carter, a young woman who works as a packhorse librarian delivering books to the people of the Appalachian Mountains.
Cussy Mary, also known as Bluet, faces discrimination and prejudice due to her rare genetic condition that gives her blue skin. Despite the challenges she faces, she is determined to bring the joy of reading to those who live in remote areas and have limited access to books. The novel explores themes of discrimination, poverty, and the power of literacy.
Richardson does a wonderful job of bringing the Appalachian setting to life, and her characters are well-developed and relatable. The story is heartwarming and poignant, and it sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of American history – the packhorse librarians who served the people of the mountains during the Great Depression.
Overall, The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek is a beautifully written and compelling novel that will touch readers' hearts. It is a story of resilience, bravery, and the transformative power of books. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical fiction or stories of strong, independent women.