Our book group choice for July 2024 is The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson. In the rugged hills of 1936 Kentucky, Cussy Mary Carter, the last living female of the “blue-skinned” people, faces prejudice and isolation.
Despite this, she finds purpose as a traveling librarian for the Pack Horse Library Project. Atop her mule, Junia, she braves treacherous terrain and wary communities to deliver books and a glimmer of hope to those in need.
Cussy’s unique appearance makes her a target for suspicion and fear, yet she perseveres, forming connections with the mountain folk she serves. She befriends a young pregnant woman, Angeline, and faces threats from those who resent her “blue” lineage. As she navigates these challenges, she also finds love and acceptance in unexpected places.
The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek is a story of resilience, the power of literacy, and the enduring human spirit. Inspired by the true blue-skinned people of Kentucky and the historical Pack Horse librarians, it’s a heartwarming testament to the transformative power of books and the courage it takes to be different.
Discussion Questions
- This is effectively a sloppy love letter to bibliophilia. How did the differing characters’ attitudes towards books and reading make you feel?
- Does the world as described by the author feel authentic?
- Where did this story fit in your conception of the United States? Does this undermine or affirm the American Dream?
- What did you make of the courting rituals?
- What did you make of the sexual violence visited on the women in the story?
- What is Richardson suggesting by making the most educated character – Doc – resort to blackmail to achieve his goals?
- There’s no shortage of prejudice on show: which was more potent? Racism? Sexism? Isolationism?
- How did Cussy Mary’s experience passing as a white woman make you feel?
- Richardson writes a wide range of characters, did any men stand out? Women?
- Is the love story believable?
- Is the story relevant today?
- What did you make of the ending? Did it fit with the rest of the work?
- To whom would you recommend this?
Individual Ratings
DKB's Rating 
EmmaT's Rating
Kelby's Rating
Anthony's Rating 