That Book Woman

Cal is not the readin’ type. Living way high up in the Appalachian Mountains, he does not want to sit stony still readin’ on some chicken scratch. And so what if his sister’s nose is always in a book? No ma’am, that’s not for him. But, that book woman keeps coming all the same. Inspired by the courageous work of the Pack Horse Librarians, a group of women who, as part of the Works Progress Administration, carried loads of books to remote regions of America during the depression, this remarkable tale of sacrifice and pluck reminds us that bravery inspires bravery. For this boy, who won't sit stony still, comes to admire the hardworking librarian — and, at first begrudgingly, decides he might have to learn to read after all, if only to see for himself what the woman is willing to risk so much for. Caldecott Medalist David Small's luminous and unsentimental illustrations bring to life a moment in history, a way of life, and a boy who is proud of who he is, but even prouder of who he could be.