Set in the early 1900s in Rowan County, Kentucky, A Chance for Kallie Mae, immerses readers in Appalachian culture. I imagine many readers, like myself, will be absolutely amazed at what a young, Appalachian woman can accomplish in a day's time without modern conveniences, without even electricity and plumbing. The emphasis throughout the story on the importance of a basic education is something that many may take for granted today. Thankfully, people like Rowan County School Superintendent, Cora Wilson Stewart, never took it for granted, going above and beyond in order to make literacy and mathematics instruction available to all, especially to adults who had previously not had the opportunity. The relationships between the characters are central to the story as are the circumstances that molded those relationships. Ann H. Gabhart is a master of character development. She presents an accurate view of those living in the mountains of eastern Kentucky in the early 1900s without leaning on stereotypes.
I highly recommend A Chance for Kallie Mae and am grateful to have received a complimentary copy from Revell via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.
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