“The book woman of Troublesome Creek” was written by Kim Michele Richardson and published in 2019.  The author did much research and conducted many interviews before writing this book, which was based on the real “Pack Horse Library Project” in 1935-1943 with the fictionalized life of the protagonist, Cussy Mary.  In 1936, Cussy, 19-year-old, is a “Book Woman” working for the Project to deliver books and reading materials to the poorest in the remote regions of the Appalachian Mountains through riding horses, mules or donkeys, by rowing boat or on foot.  The book woman might face danger in the mountainous routes and/or in difficult weather conditions.  Due to a genetic blood disorder, Cussy’s skin looked blue and someone called her “Bluet”.  Her blue skin sometimes aroused discrimination and violence from others.

While I was reading this book, I was thankful to be the librarian in modern time.  I cannot imagine to deliver books to patrons by riding a mule though mountainous routes in miles and there may be danger during the delivery.  Although Cussy had a difficult life in poverty, she really loved books very much and she was honored to be the librarian there.  She took care of every patron she encountered even though most of them discriminate against her.  She read books to patrons and school children, took care of their requests for finding books and even tried to find food and medicine for her patrons in need.  A quote from the book can bring out the theme - “Books can be a beacon of light in the darkest of times, providing hope and a sense of purpose.”

There are several touching episodes in this book.  Henry Marshell, one of the school children, was long for every time Cussy come for delivering books to them.  Although he was always hungry, he was eager to learn more through reading.  When Cussy got some food in return after a tough experimental test, she was very generous to provide those food to the children even she knew that it could not help.  When Henry nearly died, she hurried up to go there to read a book for him and give him a homemade Pack Horse librarian badge.

After dealing with the loss of loved ones, something good happened to Cussy!  Books bring Cussy Mary and Jackson Lovett together!  Jackson was one of her patrons and they had several discussions about books.  Shortly after the death of Angeline, Cussy’s father, a coal miner, died due to an accident in mine.  Jackson tried his best to take care of Cussy and become engaged with her.  Even though Jackson was beaten and arrested by a police for anti-miscegenation laws, both of them showed their courage and strength to face difficulties together.

This book is a story of bravery and strength, and a belief that books can bring us anywhere.  You can enjoy reading it by borrowing from Hong Kong Public Libraries (HKPL) or accessing the e-book via OverDrive ebooks collection.