Books Up the Mountain: A Packhorse Librarian Story

By Caroline Starr Rose

Some stories are too important to be forgotten.

During the Great Depression, families living deep in the Appalachian mountains had little access to books. But a group of determined women changed that.

They rode horses and mules over steep mountain trails, carrying saddlebags full of stories to readers who were waiting eagerly for them.

In this lyrical story by Caroline Starr Rose, Book Woman mounts her surefooted mule to traverse the rugged terrain and deliver books to isolated mountain readers.

She carries something for everyone. Old and young eagerly await her visit. Blowing blizzards, swelling streams, and slippery slopes can't keep the faithful Book Woman from her route.

This picture book is a celebration of the transformative power of books and the dedication librarians have to ensuring access to literacy for all.

Includes free audiobook streaming via QR code on the back of the book.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1956393218
• ISBN13: 9781956393217
• Release Date: August 2026
• Publisher: Waxwing Books
• Length: 40 Pages
• Weight: 0.97 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 11.0" x 9.1"
• Age Range: 4 to 8 years
• Grade Range: Preschool to Grade 3