Are you ready to dive into the rich and captivating world of Appalachian folklore? Look no further! We have compiled a list of the 20 best books on Appalachian folklore that will transport you to a land of magical creatures, spellbinding legends, and deeply-rooted traditions. From ghost stories to tales of mythical creatures, these books will immerse you in the enchanting folklore that has been passed down through generations in the Appalachian region. Whether you are a folklore enthusiast or simply looking for a captivating read, these Appalachian folklore books are an absolute must-read.
Contents
- 1 The Ballad of Trenchmouth Taggart
- 2 The Devil’s Dream
- 3 The Weight of Blood
- 4 The Secret Wisdom of the Earth
- 5 The Story Keeper
- 6 The Line That Held Us
- 7 The Last Ballad
- 8 The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek
- 9 The Road to Bittersweet
- 10 The Unquiet Grave
- 11 The Moonshiner’s Daughter
- 12 The Birds of Opulence
- 13 The Homecoming of Samuel Lake
- 14 The Cove
- 15 The Silent Sister
- 16 The Glass Castle
- 17 The Orchardist
- 18 The Little Friend
- 19 The Coal Tattoo
- 20 The Nightwood
- 21 Conclusion
The Ballad of Trenchmouth Taggart
by Glenn Taylor
The Ballad of Trenchmouth Taggart is a captivating book on Appalachian folklore that weaves together a compelling tale of love, revenge, and redemption. Set in the rugged mountains of West Virginia, this book about Appalachian folklore takes readers on a journey through the rich history and traditions of the region.
At the heart of the story is Trenchmouth Taggart, a man with a disfigured mouth who possesses a unique ability to communicate with animals. As he navigates through a world filled with violence and poverty, Trenchmouth becomes entangled in a web of family secrets and betrayals.
Glenn Taylor, the author of this captivating Appalachian folklore book, paints a vivid picture of life in the mountains, capturing the beauty and harshness of the landscape. Through his lyrical prose and vivid descriptions, Taylor brings to life the characters and their struggles, immersing readers in a world of magic and mystery.
The Ballad of Trenchmouth Taggart is not just a story; it is a celebration of the enduring spirit of the Appalachian people and their deep connection to the land. With its rich blend of folklore, history, and human drama, this mesmerizing tale will transport readers to a world where legends come to life and where the power of storytelling is as potent as the mountains themselves.
The Devil’s Dream
by Lee Smith
The Devil’s Dream by Lee Smith is a captivating book that delves deep into the enchanting world of Appalachian folklore. This mesmerizing tale takes readers on a journey through the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, where ancient legends and mythical creatures come to life.
The Weight of Blood
by Laura McHugh
The Weight of Blood by Laura McHugh is a captivating tale that delves into the eerie depths of Appalachian folklore. Set in the remote town of Henbane, Missouri, this chilling novel weaves together a dark tapestry of family secrets, haunting legends, and a gripping mystery.
The Secret Wisdom of the Earth
by Christopher Scotton
The Secret Wisdom of the Earth is a captivating novel that delves deep into the enchanting realm of Appalachian folklore. Set in the picturesque mountains of Kentucky, this book takes readers on a mesmerizing journey through the rich tapestry of Appalachian traditions, legends, and superstitions.
With vivid storytelling and a keen eye for detail, Christopher Scotton weaves a tale that explores the profound connection between nature, community, and the human spirit. The author’s love for the Appalachian region shines through every page, as he introduces readers to a world where ancient folklore comes alive.
Through the eyes of our young protagonist, Kevin, we witness his transformative summer in the mountains, where he grapples with loss, grief, and the healing power of nature. As Kevin uncovers the secrets hidden within the depths of the forest, readers are transported on a thrilling adventure that intertwines with the very fabric of Appalachian folklore.
From encounters with mystical creatures to encounters with eccentric mountain folk, The Secret Wisdom of the Earth immerses readers in a world where the line between reality and myth blurs. With each turn of the page, the book beckons you deeper into its mesmerizing embrace, leaving you hungry for more tales of Appalachian magic.
If you’re seeking a book that not only entertains but also educates and captivates with its exploration of Appalachian folklore, then The Secret Wisdom of the Earth is the perfect choice. So grab a cozy blanket, settle into your favorite reading nook, and prepare to be transported into the heart of the Appalachian mountains, where secrets and wisdom await.
The Story Keeper
by Lisa Wingate
The Story Keeper by Lisa Wingate is a captivating tale that delves into the rich tapestry of Appalachian folklore. This mesmerizing book takes readers on a journey through the enchanting world of Appalachian legends and traditions.
The Line That Held Us
by David Joy
The Line That Held Us by David Joy is a captivating tale that delves deep into the heart of Appalachian folklore. This mesmerizing book weaves a spellbinding story of friendship, sacrifice, and the dark secrets that lie hidden in the mountains.
The Last Ballad
by Wiley Cash
The Last Ballad by Wiley Cash is a captivating book about the rich tapestry of Appalachian folklore. Set in the 1920s, this novel weaves together the struggles of a courageous woman named Ella May Wiggins with the larger social issues of the time. As a single mother and textile mill worker, Ella May faces the harsh realities of poverty and inequality. Inspired by her own experiences, she becomes a prominent figure in the labor movement and fights for justice in the face of adversity. Cash’s storytelling prowess brings the vivid landscapes of Appalachia to life, immersing readers in a world of hardship, resilience, and the enduring power of folklore. With its compelling characters and poignant themes, The Last Ballad is a must-read for anyone seeking a captivating journey through the heart of Appalachian folklore.
The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek
by Kim Michele Richardson
The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek is a captivating tale immersed in the enchanting world of Appalachian folklore. Set in the 1930s in the remote hills of Kentucky, this remarkable novel explores the life of Cussy Mary Carter, a young woman who defies societal norms as the last of the blue-skinned people of Kentucky.
The Road to Bittersweet
by Donna Everhart
The Road to Bittersweet is a captivating journey through the heart of Appalachian folklore. This mesmerizing novel takes readers on an unforgettable adventure, immersing them in the rich tapestry of Appalachian culture and traditions.
Set in the 1940s, this book transports us to the rugged mountains of North Carolina, where we follow the lives of Wallis Ann Stamper and her family. Wallis Ann, a young girl with a heart full of dreams, finds herself grappling with the complexities of love, loss, and the haunting mysteries of her ancestral roots.
As Wallis Ann navigates the treacherous path of adolescence, she discovers that her family’s past is intertwined with the legends and myths of the Appalachian region. The book delves deep into the folklore that has shaped the lives of generations, painting a vivid picture of a world where magic and reality collide.
Donna Everhart’s masterful storytelling weaves together elements of suspense, tragedy, and hope, creating a mesmerizing narrative that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. With its lush prose and vivid descriptions, this book captures the essence of the Appalachian spirit and brings to life the beauty and hardships of the region.
For those seeking a tantalizing glimpse into the world of Appalachian folklore, The Road to Bittersweet is a must-read. It is a spellbinding tale that will transport you to a time and place where legends come alive and the human spirit is tested like never before.
The Unquiet Grave
by Sharyn McCrumb
The Unquiet Grave is a mesmerizing tale that delves deep into the heart of Appalachian folklore, weaving together a captivating story that will leave you spellbound. This extraordinary book immerses you in the rich tapestry of the Appalachian region, with its haunting legends and mysterious traditions. With its lyrical prose and intricate plot, The Unquiet Grave is a must-read for anyone who craves an enchanting journey into the realm of Appalachian folklore. Prepare to be transported to a world where the ordinary and the supernatural collide, and where the secrets of the past have the power to shape the present.
The Moonshiner’s Daughter
by Donna Everhart
The Moonshiner’s Daughter is a captivating tale that delves deep into the rich tapestry of Appalachian folklore. Set in the heart of the mountains, this book takes readers on a thrilling journey filled with mystery, secrets, and a touch of magic. With its vivid descriptions and authentic characters, this Appalachian folklore book will transport you to a world where moonshine runs through the veins and legends come to life. Join the protagonist as she unravels the hidden truths of her heritage and discovers the power that lies within her. Prepare to be enchanted by the spellbinding charm of this book about Appalachian folklore.
The Birds of Opulence
by Crystal Wilkinson
The Birds of Opulence is a captivating tale that immerses readers in the rich tapestry of Appalachian folklore. This enchanting book weaves a spellbinding narrative, drawing us into a world where whispers of mythical creatures and age-old customs fill the air.
The Homecoming of Samuel Lake
by Jenny Wingfield
The Homecoming of Samuel Lake is a captivating tale that delves deep into the heart of Appalachian folklore. Set amidst the rolling hills and mystical landscapes of this enchanting region, this book takes readers on a journey filled with magic, mystery, and the timeless traditions of a bygone era.
The Cove
by Ron Rash
The Cove by Ron Rash is a mesmerizing tale that delves deep into the heart of Appalachian folklore. Set against the backdrop of the hauntingly beautiful Appalachian Mountains, this book weaves a spellbinding story of love, loss, and the secrets that lie hidden within.
The Silent Sister
by Diane Chamberlain
The Silent Sister by Diane Chamberlain is a captivating and mysterious tale that delves deep into the world of Appalachian folklore. Set in the enchanting mountains of North Carolina, this book immerses readers in a haunting atmosphere where legends and secrets intertwine.
The Glass Castle
by Jeannette Walls
The Glass Castle is a captivating memoir that delves deep into the heart of Appalachian folklore, whisking readers away to a world brimming with enchanting tales and captivating characters. Jeannette Walls takes us on a remarkable journey through her tumultuous childhood, painting a vivid portrait of resilience, love, and the enduring power of the human spirit.
The Orchardist
by Amanda Coplin
The Orchardist is a captivating novel that delves deep into the rich tapestry of Appalachian folklore. Set in the breathtaking landscape of the Pacific Northwest, this book weaves a tale of resilience, mystery, and the power of human connection. Through lush prose and vivid imagery, Amanda Coplin transports readers to a world where the whispers of the past mingle with the secrets of the present. With each turn of the page, the reader is immersed in a world of enchantment, where the lines between reality and myth blur. This mesmerizing book about Appalachian folklore will leave you spellbound and longing for more.
The Little Friend
by Donna Tartt
The Little Friend by Donna Tartt is a captivating book on Appalachian folklore that will transport you to a world filled with mystery and intrigue. Set in a small town in Mississippi, this novel follows the story of Harriet, a young girl determined to solve the murder of her brother.
As Harriet delves deeper into the secrets of her family and community, she uncovers a web of Appalachian folklore that seems to hold the key to the truth. With each clue she discovers, she becomes more entangled in a dangerous game that will test her courage and determination.
Tartt’s masterful storytelling weaves together elements of Appalachian folklore with vivid descriptions of the Southern landscape, creating a rich and atmospheric setting. The author’s attention to detail and her ability to bring characters to life make this book about Appalachian folklore a truly immersive reading experience.
Get ready to be captivated by the mysterious world of Appalachian folklore as you follow Harriet on her quest for the truth. The Little Friend is a must-read for anyone who loves a thrilling and atmospheric tale that will keep you guessing until the very end.
The Coal Tattoo
by Silas House
The Coal Tattoo is a captivating tale that immerses readers in the rich tapestry of Appalachian folklore. This mesmerizing book delves deep into the heart of the region, exploring its vibrant traditions and timeless stories. With its lyrical prose and compelling characters, The Coal Tattoo transports readers to a world steeped in the magic and mystery of Appalachia. Step into the pages of this enchanting book and discover the hidden gems of this captivating Appalachian folklore.
The Nightwood
by Robin Mullins Siska
The Nightwood by Robin Mullins Siska is a captivating book that delves deep into the mystical realm of Appalachian folklore. This enchanting tale takes readers on a spellbinding journey through the mysterious woods, where ancient legends come to life and magic is woven into every leaf and branch. With its rich tapestry of folklore, this book is a treasure trove of hidden knowledge and mythical creatures. Join the author as she uncovers the hidden secrets of the Appalachian wilderness, revealing a world filled with wonder, danger, and the timeless power of storytelling. Embark on a literary adventure like no other, as The Nightwood immerses you in a spellbinding universe of Appalachian enchantment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these 20 books about Appalachian folklore are a treasure trove of stories, legends, and traditions that offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. Whether you’re a folklore enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone looking for captivating tales, these books will transport you to the mystical world of Appalachia. From ghost stories and mountain magic to folk remedies and mythical creatures, the pages of these books are filled with the essence of the Appalachian spirit. So, dive into these captivating reads and let the enchanting world of Appalachian folklore captivate your imagination!