A is for Appalachia!: The Alphabet Book of Appalachian Heritage by Linda Hager Pack, Pat Banks

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An exquisitely illustrated and heartfelt look at the traditions, history, and life of Appalachia, A is for Appalachia! introduces young readers to the alphabet while providing an endearing look at a region with one of the oldest and most distinctive folk cultures in the United States. This treasured book tells the story of the Southern Appalachian Mountains by showcasing the day-to-day life of the people and their struggles, unique culture, and oral traditions.

Written with a sincere appreciation for the history of life in Appalachia, Linda Hager Pack's eloquent, educational, and even humorous introduction to the alphabet appeals to young and old alike. Featuring more than thirty bright and whimsical illustrations by Pat Banks, this collection of traditional folk tales, recipes, Jack Tales, expressions, music, and even ghost stories come to life on the page. Truly a unique journey back in time, A is for Appalachia! provides an informative and entertaining representation of authentic Appalachian life.


"[Banks] wrote this book with an obvious deep affection for the region and its people. It differs from most such books in its scope and delves into Appalachian heritage. [Banks] does a wonderful job of capturing the old-time feel of the book's setting." -- Herald Courier



"Not only a good introduction to a vanishing but very important tradition; it's also a fun read." -- Harrodsburg Herald



"While it could certainly be used to teach the ABC's, it is also an inviting and educational tour of the region's history and heritage. A is for Appalachia is written for young readers but is a treasure for all.... Young and old will return to this book to be charmed while learning." -- Louisville Courier-Journal



"[Pack] wrote this book with an obvious deep affection for the region and its people...[Banks] does a wonderful job of capturing the old-time feel of the book's setting, and her depictions of faces are realistic and diverse." -- News Herald



"[Pack's] writing and Kentucky artist Pat Banks' watercolor illustrations capture some fading traditions, such as one-room schoolhouses." -- Atlanta Journal-Constitution



"[ A is for Appalachia] helps young children understand the heritage of the Southern Appalachian Mountains and the Scots, Irish, English and Germans who settled there." -- Knoxville News-Sentinel




Linda Hager Pack, an educator for twenty-two years, teaches children's literature at Eastern Kentucky University and received the prestigious Ashland Oil Teacher of the Year award in 1996.


Pat Banks, a master watercolorist, is a Kentucky Guild of Artists and Craftsmen member, a Kentucky Arts Council roster artist, and a Kentucky Craft Marketing program participant.

Target Age: 6-9

University Press of Kentucky

Pub Date: October 01, 2009

0.48" H x 10.26" L x 10.16" W

44 pages

hardcover