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May 30, 2019Reads_A_Lot rated this title 4 out of 5 stars
This is the 2nd historical fiction book I’ve read about the Kentucky Pack Horse Librarians, but the first time I’ve heard of the blue-skinned people of Kentucky. The packhorse librarians were part of President Roosevelt’s WPA projects. I’m in awe of these tough, brave women who rode horses and mules through treacherous terrain and weather to bring books and learning to the hill people who did not have access to libraries. They also brought a human connection to many who were isolated. The story follows a blue-skinned librarian who is loved by the folks on her book route, but receives the same prejudice as blacks by the townspeople. Gives a good look into the lives of the coal mining community, the poverty, the superstitions, their strong will, and their pride at refusing to accept charity. I enjoyed riding along with Bluet the Book Woman.