Appalachian Song, by Michelle Shocklee, is a heartwarming and tear-jerking novel told from 2 different perspectives. This book was a finalist in the 2024 Christy Awards, which are given out to recognize fiction written from a Christian perspective with faith at its core. Appalachian Song’s plot, although not a true story, is inspired by the lives of the Walker sisters in Little Greenbrier Cove, Tennessee.
This book switches perspectives and time periods from one chapter to the next. The first perspective is told in 1943 by Bertie Jenkins, a midwife in her mid-50s. Bertie and her 4 sisters live in a small cabin deep in the smoky mountains isolated from most of society. They lead simple lives, spending their days doing household chores, gardening and tending their farm animals. They also have very strong Christian faiths and are careful to fear and obey the Lord.
As you can see, the Jenkins sisters live quiet, peaceful lives until one day when they find a pregnant 14-year-old girl passed out in their yard. Her father shot her and she ran away from home. The girl, called Songbird, lives with the Jenkins while they take care of her and her baby.
The other perspective takes place 30 years later in 1973 and is told by Walker Wylie, a 30-year-old country singer. After Walker’s father passes away, he finds out he was adopted as a baby and makes the difficult decision to search for his birth mother.
Appalachian Song is a tender story of survival, love, loss, adoption, faith, family, grace and heartbreak. It teaches readers several important lessons including “take care of others” and “love each other.” This book tugged on my heartstrings and brought me to tears more than once.
This book also did an excellent job tying Christian themes into the plot. Characters are constantly reflecting on Bible verses that are staples in their lives and seeking God for guidance. It truly was the perfect blend of action, reflection and emotion.
I’d rate Appalachian Song 4.7 out of 5 stars. It’s become one of my favorite books and is one that I will likely reread (which I don’t do often). I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, Christian books, and compelling characters.
