Books Up the Mountain

Waxwing Books, August 2026

A tale of courage, commitment and the transformative power of stories, Books Up the Mountain: A Packhorse Librarian Story is a compelling tribute to the brave women who served the people of the Appalachian mountains during the Great Depression.

Before the birds begin to sing or the sun makes plans to rise, Book Woman mounts her surefooted mule to traverse the rugged Appalachian terrain and deliver books to isolated mountain readers. She carries something for everyone–books and pamphlets, magazines, and scrapbooks. Old and young eagerly await her visit. Blowing blizzards, swelling streams and slippery slopes can’t keep the faithful Book Woman from her route. She knows she carries more than just books–she bears words to bring the world to readers in these mountains.

Historical fiction written by Caroline Starr Rose and illustrated by Gabrielle Grimard, this picture book will capture young readers with its lyrical text, substantial back matter, and gorgeous illustrations. 

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Praise for Books Up the Mountain

Evocative. A lovely tale about some nearly forgotten women.
— Kirkus Reviews

Communities where stories of creative librarians are popular will do well to purchase this.
— Booklist