The Mountains We Call Home: The Book Woman's Legacy

From the New York Times bestselling author of The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek comes a triumphant tale of a librarian's fight to bring literacy to the prisons of Kentucky and the underserved neighborhoods of downtown Louisville, revealing a story of fierce love, quiet strength, and the healing power of books.

When Cussy Lovett, a Packhorse Librarian famed for bringing books to the people of Appalachia, is unjustly incarcerated, she finds a new calling as a prison librarian, bringing hope to downtrodden women and voiceless city residents alike, finding a home even while separated from those she loves. A vivid portrait of mid-century Kentucky, from the hills and hollers of Appalachia to a vibrant city neighborhood on the cusp of urban renewal, The Mountains We Call Home explores the effects of criminalization and incarceration on the poor and powerless, while tracing the societal consequences of fractured family bonds.

Gritty, heartbreaking, yet infused with hope, The Mountains We Call Home is an authentic American tale and a powerful testament of strength, survival, and the magic of the written word.

"Woven so seamlessly of important themes that it has the potential for changing lives." --William Kent Krueger, New York Times bestselling author

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Published Apr 21, 2026

384 pages

Average rating: 7

3 RATINGS

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Community Reviews

Gayle P
May 27, 2026
9/10 stars
This novel is the final installment of the tale of Cussy Carter Lovett, the 1930s packhorse librarian who was afflicted with a genetic disorder that caused her skin to be blue. She was ridiculed for her skin color and was even imprisoned for marrying a man who wasn't a "blue." Cussy perseveres during her incarceration and becomes the prison librarian. Her giving spirit shines in this role as she encourages other inmates to rediscover the joy of reading. For those who are not literate, she teaches the willing ones how to read and write. This heartwarming novel takes the reader through the agony, fear, suffering, and prejudice that pervade Cussy's soul. The story also demonstrates how love and loyalty live on despite the direst of circumstances. The emotional impact of The Mountains We Call Home will stay with me forever.
Leslie Zemeckis
Apr 15, 2026
5/10 stars
5 star. Another in her series - though this is stand alone - of bookwomen in Kentucky (and she's coming to the SB Literary Festival May 2-3

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