Book Review: The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek

By John Rodgers

The public library is a paradise for New Year’s resolution makers. With books dedicated to self-help and DIY projects as well as a Library of Things, which contains items like sewing machines and musical instruments to borrow, there’s something for anyone who is looking to discover a new pastime. But sometimes, the solution is as simple as deciding to join a book club. The Sequoyah Regional Library System offers plenty of those, with the Woodstock Public Library’s Themed Adult Book Club on January 6 at 6:00pm, the Ball Ground Public Library’s LGBT+ Book Club on January 22 at 2:00pm, and the R.T. Jones Memorial Library’s January 10 meeting to discuss the subject of this review: The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson.

A book that celebrates the act of reading is perfect to kick off the new year. A historical fiction set in 1930s Kentucky, the novel tells the story of Cussy Carter, a book woman in the Pack Horse Library Project who takes pride in bringing literature (as well as food and medicine) to her patrons, despite the discriminatory treatment she receives from many due to a genetic disorder which has turned her skin blue. Cussy’s dedication to her calling, regardless of the hardships she endures, will inspire some readers and cause others slight discomfort, but the novel remains thrilling and incredibly well-researched to the point that even history buffs will find themselves learning something new.

Those who have read The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek (or are simply looking to learn more about the book) can attend the R.T. Jones Memorial Library’s Adult Eclectics Book Club meeting on January 10 at 6:00pm to share their thoughts. The Adult Eclectics Book Club meets monthly and takes place inside the library’s community room. To register for this and other free library book clubs (and to view the recommended title for each meeting), please visit the event calendar at CalendarWiz.com/sequoyahreglib.