Hope Rode
Hope Rode by Lauren H. Kerstein, published by Union Square Publishing in 2025, is a children’s book that highlights the inspiring efforts of the Packhorse librarians in Kentucky during the Great Depression. This edition, consisting of 48 pages, presents a narrative focused on the challenges faced by these brave women who delivered books on horseback to promote literacy in rural Appalachia, where educational opportunities were scarce.
Readers will discover the resilience and determination of the Packhorse librarians as they navigated difficult terrain and harsh conditions to make reading accessible to all. The book combines uplifting prose with lush, hand-painted illustrations by Becca Stadtlander, capturing the essence of this empowering story. Through its portrayal of the librarians’ dedication, Hope Rode serves as a tribute to those who worked tirelessly to foster a love for reading and education in their communities.
Official synopsis Publisher
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.
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