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The Book Woman of Troublesome CreekKim Michele Richardson

Historical fiction

The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek

by Kim Michele Richardson

In Depression-era eastern Kentucky, Cussy Mary Carter serves isolated mountain families through the WPA's Pack Horse Library Project. Her route is demanding and dangerous, but books, magazines, and practical information allow her to bring dignity and connection to communities with few resources. Cussy also belongs to a blue-skinned Appalachian family whose inherited condition exposes her to cruelty, discrimination, and medical mistreatment even among people who value her work. Rooted in Kentucky history, this powerful novel combines literacy, resilience, prejudice, and a woman's determination to claim useful work and human worth.

Paired for this story

Kentucky Blackberry Shrub + Copper Ale

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At a glance

Know what you're getting into

Spice1 of 5
Suspense4 of 5
Creepy0 of 5
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No surprises at chapter twelve

Content notes

Racism and discrimination · Violence · Death · Poverty · Medical mistreatment

Alcohol-Free Pour

Kentucky Blackberry Shrub

Tart, earthy, and made for a mountain road.

What you'll need

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How to mix it

  1. Combine the noncarbonated ingredients in a glass or shaker and stir or shake until mixed. Pour over ice, top with any carbonated ingredient, and stir gently.
  2. Garnish: Use a matching citrus wheel, berry, or herb from the recipe when available.
  3. Glassware: Highball glass.
21+

Cocktail Pour · 21+

Copper Ale

For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.

A cool pint of copper ale is ready whenever the story calls for a pause.

What you'll need

  • 12 oz Copper ale

How to mix it

  1. Pour into a clean pint glass and serve at the appropriate cool serving temperature.
  2. Garnish: None.
  3. Glassware: Pint glass.

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