Have you heard of the Packhorse librarians, who delivered books to rural families on horseback in the depths of the Great Depression? Learn all about them in Hope Rode: The Promise of the Packhorse Librarians by award-winning author Lauren H. Kerstein. Enter to win a signed copy, a swag pack, and a $30 bookstore gift card of choice!
My Review:
Drawing on extensive research, Hope Rode provides a poetic recount of the little-known history of the Packhorse librarians, honoring the unsung heroes who impacted the lives of tens of thousands of Kentuckians in rural and remote areas during dark times.
An alarming percentage of rural population in Kentucky remained illiterate in 1930s due to lack of access to public libraries. The Packhorse Library project was launched to address the issue by recruiting librarians willing to bring books to families with no public library in their neighborhood. A good number of courageous women joined the mission and became known as Packhorse librarians. Delivering books on horseback was no easy task. From harsh weather and road conditions to distrust and resistance of the farmers, so many dangers and obstacles were lurking around. But the smiling faces of young children yearning for learning made all their endeavors worthwhile.
Beautifully written and illustrated, the book highlights the intimidating challenges Packhorse librarians had to overcome in order to make more books available to rural residents. It applauds the dedication, determination, perseverance and resilience of the beloved book ladies. They delivered not only books, but also knowledge, vision, care, job opportunity, the joy of reading, and so much more... What they did was truly amazing and admirable!
The story ends with the Author's Note, detailing more facts and background information about the Packhorse librarians, including precious photos, some of which get artistically represented in the illustrations. Apart from complementing the narrative with vivid visuals, the paintings amplify the stunning beauty of rural landscapes, reflecting the book's theme with beams of hope.
Inspiring and informative, Hope Rode makes us aware of the great deeds of Packhorse librarians while fueling our passion for reading and urging us to treasure the resources at our disposal today.
About the Book:
Ages: 4+ | 48 Pages
Publisher: Union Square Kids (2025) | ISBN-13: 978-1454948483
An empowering ode to the brave librarians from Kentucky.
Following the Great Depression, literacy rates in the country had dwindled, and education and opportunities were harder to come by, especially in areas like rural Appalachia. But still, there was a dream: a vision of a nation in which reading was accessible to all—even those in the most remote places.
The Packhorse Library project of the 1930s and 1940s called upon Kentucky women to make that vision a reality and rise to the difficult and demanding job of delivering books on horseback. The Packhorse librarians were brave, steadfast, and resilient. For years, the women endured rough terrain, harsh conditions, and exhaustion. And with each book delivered and reading lesson taught, the librarians ushered in a new era for Kentuckians.
With uplifting prose by Lauren H. Kerstein and lush, hand-painted art from Becca Stadtlander, Hope Rode tells the true story of the strength, courage, and conviction of the Packhorse librarians.
Purchase links: Barnes & Noble | Bookshop.org
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