Haunted by her sister’s mysterious disappearance, Lucy Wilson arrives in Rowan County, Kentucky, in the spring of 1911 to work for Cora Wilson Stewart, superintendent of education. When Cora sends Lucy into the hills to act as scribe for the mountain people, she is repelled by the primitive conditions and intellectual poverty she encounters. Few adults can read and write.

Born in those hills, Cora knows the plague of illiteracy. So does Brother Wyatt, a singing schoolmaster who travels through the hills. Involving Lucy and Wyatt, Cora hatches a plan to open the schoolhouses to adults on moonlit nights. The best way to combat poverty, she believes, is to eliminate illiteracy. But will the people come?

As Lucy emerges from a life in the shadows, she finds purpose; or maybe purpose finds her.Click To TweetWith purpose comes answers to her questions, and something else she hadn’t expected: love.

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About the Author

Carol award winner Suzanne Woods Fisher writes stories that take you to places you’ve never visited—one with characters that seem like old friends. But most of all, her books give you something to think about long after you’ve finished reading it. With over one million copies of her books sold worldwide, Suzanne is the best-selling author of more than thirty books, ranging from non-fiction books, to children’s books, to novels. She lives with her very big family in northern California.

My Review (and an Apology)

This review and post were due on Jan. 31 but due to several technical and logistical challenges, it is just now appearing. Please forgive my tardiness and allow me to offer my sincerest apologies to the author as well as to Celebrate Lit. I am deeply sorry for this scheduling snafu and will earnestly endeavor to not repeat it again.

Extraordinary, inspiring, and truly memorable. Another exceptional work of historical fiction from an author who is a genius wordsmith. Based on true events, this beautifully crafted fictional account gives the reader a deeper understanding and appreciation for as well as an opportunity to empathize with the challenges faced by illiterates. In many respects, this book also provides a true call to action – for those of us who can read to come alongside and assist those who cannot. I am grateful for the opportunity to experience this fine writing and look forward to heeding this call to action! Very highly recommended!

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review was not required, no compensation was received, and all views expressed are my own.

More from Suzanne

I’m Suzanne Woods Fisher, the author of The Moonlight School. This historical fiction will release on February 2, 2021, and is based on a true story featuring Cora Wilson Stewart, a Kentucky educator way ahead of her times. In 1911, Cora had a crazy idea—to open rural one-room schoolhouses in her county on moonlit nights to teach illiterate adults how to read and write.

So what happened next? Well, it’s so astonishing that you wouldn’t believe me if I told you. Instead, I hope you’ll read the book and find out for yourself.

In the meantime, this infographic provides a fascinating look at illiteracy THEN…and NOW. Makes you want to thank your teachers, doesn’t it?