Light Comes to Shadow Mountain

by Toni Buzzeo

Cora Mae Tipton is determined to light up her Appalachian community in this historical fiction novel from an award-winning author and former librarian.

It’s 1937 and the government is pushing to bring electricity to the mountains of southeastern Kentucky. It’s all Cora can think of; radios with news from around the world, machines that keep food cold, lightbulbs by which to read at night! Cora figures she can help spread the word by starting a school newspaper and convincing her neighbors to support the Rural Electrification Act.

But resistance to change isn’t easy to overcome, especially when it starts at home. Cora’s mother is a fierce opponent of electrification. She argues that protecting the landscape of the holler—the trees, the streams, the land that provides for their way of life—is their responsibility. But Cora just can’t let go of wanting more.

Lyrical, literary, and deeply heartfelt, this debut novel from an award-winning author-librarian speaks to family, friendship, and loss through the spirited perspective of a girl eager for an electrified existence, but most of all, the light of her mother’s love and acceptance.

Back matter includes an Author’s Note; further information on the Rural Electrification Act, the herbs and plants of Appalachia, the Pack Horse Library Project, and more; and a “Quick Questions” historical trivia section for readers.

A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection

Genres: Historical Fiction, Middle Grade, Juvenile, Childrens, Historical, Audiobook, Fiction

272 pages, Hardcover

First published July 11, 2023

Reviews

[Amina · Rating 3 out of 5]

✰ 3.25 stars ✰

“I determine to fill my reporter’s notebook with stories of news, be it of Spruce Lick or the great wide world—just like Jewell Roberts.

I determine to find a way to bring light to Shadow Mountain, whether I live out my life right here or not.”

There are so many comforts in our lives that we seem to take for granted - simple conveniences of making life easier that in our current timeline, we possibly couldn't imagine living without them. Basic needs always seem to include food, clothing, shelter, but what about electricity? How vital do you think it has become a necessity of our lives that we couldn't possibly function without it? What about the time when electricity was such a novel thought that some people who had lived life without it for so long, didn't believe that it was required to be a part of daily life? 😟

“Then, she’d shouted just as loudly, but somehow, though she stole my joy that day, she didn’t steal my resolve.

Now, for the first time, I’m not sure she has left me with a path forward or the will to continue treading it if it still exists.”

Light Comes to Shadow Mountain falls under the category of what I would like to classify as informative middle grade books. For while it is indeed historical fiction that sheds light on a Cora Mae Tipton, a young girl's determination to stir up favor for having electricity becoming a part of their Kentucky community nestled in the Appalachians after the Great Depression, it also has a touch of heart to it that gives way to a very realistic depiction of Cora's troubled but heart-felt relationship with her mother. 💛💛

Cora was a headstrong and resilient young girl. After the recent death of her older sister to illness, a certain rift has formed between her and her mother, who's pregnant with her fifth child. She's trying to fill the void left by her and try to still be worthy of someone in her mother's eyes, and it doesn't help either when her mother is so fiercely against her enthusiastic support for electricity becoming a staple in their community, adamant that life without it would be just as fine. 😔 'Maybe this is why some mountain folk, like Aunt Thelma, move away—to know such things for themselves, no matter that the ones left behind feel sad or even angry. The knowing is that important.' But, when her baby's life is threatened, Cora's true mettle and nerves of bravery are put to the test, and so, too is the appreciation and understanding of how important electricity can become when natural means and old-fashioned methods no longer suffice. 👍🏻

“But deep down I know that despite my anger and frustration with her, or maybe even because of them, my heart remains tied to this complicated mommy of mine.”

It's a bittersweet awakening for both of them, but I liked how it came together in a believable and emotional way. That they may not agree on it, but they can understand it - be inspired by the new ideas and learn from the past teachings - appreciate the past and the present for all that it offers. ❤️‍🩹 ❤️‍🩹 'Did it ever occur to you, Cora, that the hills and hollers protect us, let us be who we are, leave us be in peace to live the life we choose with our children close around us?' The steps leading up to it were harsh and hard-fought; her mother's anger and frustrations towards Cora hurt me, too.

Cora behaved as the typical daughter who wouldn't quite agree with her mother, which I liked. She has a lot of spirit and drive, inspired by her keen interest of being a journalist and aiming to always be insightful and purposeful in her reporting skills. 👏🏻 'Now I truly understand how tiring it can be sometimes to have the weight of caring for others on your shoulders.' She was a very caring and kindhearted sister, but it didn't mean she had bad days, too - ones where she questioned her good morale - that definitely came into effect with the arrival of Glenna, her thirteen-year-old cousin from Detroit.

Cora's reaction to the difference between city life and the serenity and simplicity of mountain life was a treat for me 'Mountain living is a whole other way of life—and I like it.' A part of me wouldn't mind the rural and quiet tones of the country, one which Cora probably never really appreciated the beauty of till seeing it through Glenna's eyes, but I couldn't help but cackle aloud at her surprise that kids in the city actually received allowances for doing household chores! 😆 It's such a simple thing to take note of, but one that clearly makes the immense distinction of just how life is slowly steadily changing not only in the industrial hustle and bustle, but the family values, as well. Despite their very rocky start, it was heartwarming to see Cora and her best friend/pseudo-sister embraced Glenna to become a part of their family. 🤍

“But for now, try to remember what my pap always said about darkness.”

“What?” I ask, hoping for something to make my heart lighter.

“In darkness we can better see the stars,” Pap says.”

I was a bit unsure as to how the trajectory of the story would shift in Cora's favor; how she would either realize the error of her fervent support for electricity or somehow manage to convince her mother to realize her incorrect perception of it. 🥺 But, the way the author incorporated her own personal life into the benefits of it, while also shedding light on the importance of acknowledging the natural benefits that people receive from their surroundings was enlightening for her, too - in an effective and believable way. And one which she managed to capture in her passion for journalism - an impartiality in journalism to 'show both sides of the story'. 👍🏻👍🏻

There was a time in my life where I had to survive without electricity for a hundred days - it's a time I won't likely ever forget. It doesn't quite compare to the time when it didn't exist, but you learn to appreciate the remnants of sunlight and how great a gift it is to have the opportunity to see in the dark. 😔 And it also teaches you the way to live life without it, too. Cora's insightful understanding of showing the two sides of it, how electricity has its benefits was thoughtful and meaningful, but so too was her understanding that the lessons and experiences and knowledge gained from the years without it - is just as important and necessary to take into account and hold on to. 💡

[Stephanie Fitzgerald · Rating 5 out of 5]

Squeeee! (That’s my 10-year-old inner child enjoying this book!)
For a historical fiction buff, and avid watcher of “The Waltons” for many years like me, this book was chocolate candy!
The author did a wonderful job of showing why Cora and her classmates were so enthusiastic for “electrification” to arrive; refrigerators, radios, hot lunches at school were all exciting concepts for mountain kids in 1930’s Kentucky. She also expressed clearly through the grown-up’s voices, those who had lived in the mountains their entire lives, the hesitation and fear that arose when their lands and ways of life were threatened by drastic, and permanent changes…
I will buy a copy when this book is released in July 2023, because I want to re-read it! I will also be following the author for future writings!

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

A truly excellent book! Not only is it a good, well-written story, but I learned quite a bit of history from it as well. I actually was first interested in reading the book because it was about rural electrification. My late mother-in-law, born in 1922, grew up on a farm in Altus, Oklahoma without the benefit of electricity or running water. She spent her younger years doing homework by the light of a kerosene lamp. As soon as electricity was available to her family, they gladly took advantage of it. I had heard of the Packhorse Librarians, and read a few books about them, but had not heard of the Frontier Nursing Service. I highly recommend this book!

[Beka Metz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book deserves a lot more than 5 ⭐️s!!
I loved everything about this story! But the character development is so wonderful! I want to live on Shadow mountain! Best book I’ve read in a very long time!

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book for the Charlie May Simon Award Committee. I LOVED this book from cover to cover. It reminded me a little bit of Little House on the Prairie (just newer). An excellent read.

[Laura Byrd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Herbalism, Appalachia, journalism, family, friends, amazing character growth and more . . . all in one book? Yes please!!

Set in 1937, amidst the depression, Light Comes to Shadow Mountain shines a light into the life of Cora Mae Tipton, a mountain girl with great dreams and aspirations. She's eager to embrace innovation as FDR's Rural Electrification Act means her very own mountain may soon have electricity. While Cora is excited, her mother, still grieving the loss of her oldest daughter due to flu, isn't excited about the potential changes and sacrifice that come with that progress.

Cora is desperate to convince enough people on the mountain to sign up for electricity so she can at least have lights at the school, Lights at the school mean more time to study and higher chances of getting a scholarship, enabling her to fulfill her dreams of becoming a journalist. While Cora longs to connect the mountain with electricity, she struggles to find ways to connect with her mother who seems so distant. How can she bridge what she knows deep down is a positive step forward with her mother's insistence to keep things the way they are, and, amidst it all, find a way to feel close to her mom again.

I love how seamlessly Buzzeo gave us clear pictures into what mountain life was like. I felt excited to learn about Cora, her family, friends, and the nuances of mountain life. I also wanted to find out more about librarians on horseback, herbalism, burn care, and so much more. The tension between progress and holding onto the things that are important is one that many will relate to as it remains a timeless struggle.

With many twits and turns, this is a fantastic family read aloud that will leave you with all the positive, warm, fuzzy feelings, and likely a desire to dive into the rich resources shared in the author's note, bringing Cora's world to life even more.

Thank you NetGalley and Holiday House for a chance to read an early copy of this book

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book in so many ways!
The only thing about it that, though, was it felt like it was written in diary form, and I'm not used to reading books like these. To me, it makes it that much harder to read.
However, there were things that I loved about this book that I adored, if that makes sense.
I loved the setting! I had no idea it was set in Eastern Kentucky! Which, of course, that made me love it!
Then there's the fact that it's a coming of age story. Those seem to be my favorite for some reason. I think it's because I see myself in these youngsters.
I love the family values that are portrayed in these books. Some I wished that my family had. I know some families do even in these days and times.
Cora Mae and Ceily made me giggle in some places. The things they tried to do. I still smile when I think of them.
There was only one person whom I didn't care much for, but it wasn't really her fault. It was how she was raised. I almost felt sorry for her.
The people of this book gave the feeling of being home again and that's what I enjoyed most about this book.
I'm still giving this book 5 stars because of the feelings it gave as I mentioned in the last paragraph.
I will be adding this to my keeper shelf. I highly recommend this book!
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Susan Schremp · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved reading this story about Cora and how she learned to see all sides of a story. Now one of my favorite historical fiction books!

[Shelby Bethke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Way more people should be talking about this book. The character development and pacing were top-notch. Showed one of the most realistic child-parent relationships I think I've ever read.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet children’s book! 🥰

[Mara Scudder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Light Comes to Shadow Mountain surprised me with the skill and warmth of the tale it told. Completely immersed in the world of Cora Mae Tipton, Toni Buzzeo let her voice shine throughout the work. With distinct figures of speech and an optimistic worldview, Cora shares the story of her struggle to help bring electricity to her mountain home in southeastern Kentucky. Cora knows the only way for her to fulfill her dream of becoming a successful journalist is to make it through highschool, but she can’t imagine passing the exams without electric light at night to study by. Her days are filled with the tedious chores that are necessary on the mountain -- chores that Cora could imagine would be a breeze with the electrical appliances she’s seen in magazines from the city -- and she simply doesn’t have time for schoolwork during the day. Unfortunately for her, electricity is relatively expensive for a small town in the Depression, and far worse, her mother views electricity as the end of their way of life.
Cora and her mother repeatedly clash, sometimes over electricity and many times over other issues, some of which were out of Cora’s control. Cora finds it challenging not to make electricity a personal matter to her. She knows a good journalist should be objective, examining both sides of an issue before forming an opinion, but she can’t help but feel frustrated that her mother is so stubborn. Over the course of the novel, Cora attempts to not only understand her mother’s side of things, but also recognize and work to change her own flaws. She learns how to forgive those who have hurt her and works to stay positive despite frustrating circumstances. Cora’s passion for her dreams do not hinder her from recognizing her own faults and putting her family first. She risks her life to save her newborn sister and gives up the money that she hoped would bring light to Shadow Mountain to help pay hospital bills.
As a character, Cora works to shed light not only on her mountain home, but also on the issues of the time, the challenges she faces, and most of all the opposition to her cause. Her desire to understand even those who are firmly opposed to her only chance at fulfilling her dreams is one of the biggest things that makes her a memorable protagonist. She seeks to put aside her feelings and step into the shoes of someone else, making her an unusual, but especially perceptive character. Whether it is her mother, her cousin, or the cranky neighbor down the road, Cora always seeks to understand different perspectives. It is this understanding that finally enables her to reconcile with her mother and resolve the tension in their family.
Cora’s vibrant personality, her understanding of her faults, and willingness to sacrifice anything for her family (even if certain members of that family make such sacrifices especially difficult) make this novel stand out from the many other middle-grade works on the shelf. Light Comes to Shadow Mountain chronicles a little-told story in an unusual setting, but this uniqueness only adds to its beauty and originality. Cora’s story sheds light not only on a little-known setting with long-forgotten perspectives, but also on crucial themes such as love, forgiveness, and family that make this a heartwarming read.

[Stephanie Tournas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cora and her family live in rural Kentucky. It’s 1937, the midst of the Great Depression, and where she lives there is no electricity. When Cora hears about President Roosevelt’s Rural Electrification Administration, she is keen to help sign up her school, and, if possible, her family, for the service. Cora is a big reader, and also a writer, with ambition to become a journalist, so more light means more time available to her to do what she loves to do best. Her best friend Ceilly is on board, although Ceilly is an orphan and her guardian Great Aunt Exie abhors the idea. And Cora’s Mommy? She is totally against electric light. Mommy feels electrification would change their way of life too much.

Cora is a child with huge ideas, and it’s hard not to be impressed with all of her projects. In addition to helping run the home, she cares for her twin four year old brothers, helps Mommy gather plants and herbs for her herbal cures, cooks meals, cares for the animals, and helps with all of the physical labor it took a family to survive in rural Kentucky in the 1930s. In the meantime, she hatches plans to earn money for the school’s electrification; she starts a school newspaper; she tries to find a way to make friends with her cousin Glenna, who has come to live with them. There is lots of family drama and tragedy to contend with: Mommy is pregnant; they are all still grieving sister Ida’s death from the flu; Ceilly’s parents died in a fire and does not feel like great aunt Exie likes her one bit; one of her brothers is burned in a fire. And Cora increasingly feels that she cannot live up to her dead sister’s legacy. She aches to be seen by Mommy, but Mommy is increasingly angry and distracted. How will Cora’s quest for electrification work if she has to hide it from her family?

This is a completely engrossing and immersive historical novel. Toni Buzzeo has really made the sights, sounds, smells, speech cadence and relationships of rural Appalachian life in the 1930’s feel so real. And Cora’s quest to understand her mother, as well as to find a way to bring electricity to her mountain, are so moving. The author (a former librarian, and Massachusetts resident) did a ton of research to make all of the details fit seamlessly into the story without overwhelming the character development. In a way, Cora, her friend Ceilly, and her cousin Glenna seem older than their years, but it makes sense that kids had to take on a lot of burdens for survival in those years, and I think young readers will be captivated by their lives.

For history buffs, there’s lots of information and further reading at the end on the Frontier Nursing Service, herbal and plant medicine, the Pack Horse Library Project, the Rural Electrification Administration, settlement schools and more.

[ABG · Rating 4 out of 5]

An amazing story, but one that I seemed to me like a YA book more than a Middle Grade one. DNF at 16% - while I loved Cora’s inner voice and the rich detail the author clearly put into this story (I could ‘see’ in my mind’s eye the entire setting), the writing style was quite a bit more complex than I’m used to seeing in Middle Grade. An example “But she doesn’t seem inclined to share her reasons nor am I inclined to insist on knowing them. Given her habit of completely forbidding any actions I might take, I won’t risk that. The lie of omission pokes me hard, but I know I just can’t stop, can’t allow her to interfere and stymie a plan before we even get started.”

This would be well-suited to young adults, I think, or mature/well-read middle grade readers, but as someone who was looking for a bit more of an accessible historical fiction MG book, the writing style didn’t quite land for me.

That being said, this was an incredible book, despite that fact that I didn’t enjoy it. Cora is a wonderful, relatable main character, who is both kind, observant, intelligent, and funny, while at the same time imbued with all those complicated feelings and emotions that I think all of us felt at that age. The setting is interesting and well-constructed, but the many historical references and details make me think that this would probably be enjoyed more by those who are quite familiar with the historical fiction genre. Nevertheless - a beautiful book that tells a unique, nuanced story in a very lyrical way. Even though it wasn’t my cup of tea, I can see that many others will absolutely love it.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC, all opinions are my own.

[Lisa Houston · Rating 4 out of 5]

**Book Review: A Powerful Story of Change and Tradition**

This historical fiction novel brings 1937 Appalachia to life through the determined and hopeful eyes of Cora Mae Tipton. The story follows Cora’s passionate desire to bring electricity to her mountain community in southeastern Kentucky, inspired by the promise of progress—radios, refrigeration, and light at night. But her dream is met with strong opposition, especially from her mother, who values preserving their land and traditions over modernization.

The novel masterfully explores themes of progress, resistance to change, and the deep bonds of family. Cora’s voice is both earnest and compelling, making her an unforgettable protagonist. The tension between her longing for the future and her mother’s devotion to the past is beautifully written, adding layers of emotional depth.

Beyond the engaging story, the book is rich in historical detail. Readers will appreciate the back matter, which includes fascinating information about the Rural Electrification Act, Appalachian plant life, and the Pack Horse Library Project. The inclusion of a historical trivia section makes it an excellent choice for young readers and educators alike.

Lyrical, heartfelt, and illuminating, this debut novel is a must-read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction, coming-of-age stories, and tales of resilience. It’s a moving tribute to the power of dreams, the weight of tradition, and the love that binds families together.

[Rebecca Reid · Rating 5 out of 5]

Light Comes to Shadow Mountain by Toni Buzzeo (Pixel + Ink, July 2023) is a fictional middle grade novel centered around Cora May Tipton, a spirited and eager girl living in rural Kentucky during the Great Depression. Cora resides on Shadow Mountain, a considerable distance from the nearest town. Thanks to President Roosevelt’s New Deal programs, particularly the Rural Electrification Act, the opportunity for electricity to reach areas like Cora’s. However, there is a major obstacle to overcome: Cora’s mother staunchly opposes electricity, fearing it will disrupt their cherished way of life.


Cora’s mother is a medicine woman who relies on the local flora for sustenance and the creation of medicinal remedies. She not only feeds her family but also helps the sick with her herbal knowledge, passed down through generations. Undeterred by her mother’s resistance, Cora, aspiring to be a journalist, takes it upon herself to create a newspaper to educate others about the benefits of electricity. To her surprise, some of her fellow mountain dwellers share concerns about the electrification project, fearing the displacement and disturbance of trees and wildlife.

Reading this book provides a fresh perspective on electricity and its potential impact on the rural lifestyle during the 1930s. It sheds light on the challenges faced by a poverty-stricken community and the hardships they endure to survive. Cora is an endearing character, as is her best friend. The book introduces us to a multitude of individuals in the community, each with their own struggles, hopes, and dreams.

While the main storyline explores the transformational effects of electrification, the novel also delves into themes of friendship, mother-daughter relationships, and the importance of serving and helping others. Another significant theme is learning about journalism as an unbiased pursuit rather than a platform for personal opinions. Personally, the most captivating aspect of the book is the evolving relationship between Cora and her mother. They both wrestle with grief as they grapple with the loss of Cora’s older sister, Ida, and their journey involves finding ways to reconnect and heal.

Light Comes to Shadow Mountain offers valuable insights into the distinctiveness of rural life and the profound changes brought about by electricity in isolated regions. It serves as an eye-opening account, but it is also a delightful and well-written middle grade novel. I wholeheartedly recommend this book, particularly for sharing with students to foster understanding of the disparities between rural and urban experiences and the transformative power of progress.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance review copy of this book provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Jessica Richards · Rating 5 out of 5]

I tucked this book into my library bag on a whim while my seven year old was perusing the middle grade shelves. I’ve been enjoying middle grade fiction lately so I decided to give this book a try. This was such a well written and informative book. I loved how the author showed both Cora and Mommy’s points of view regarding bringing electricity to Shadow Mountain. Although the book is written from the point of view of an 11 year-old girl (a very mature one at that!), I still felt drawn into the story as an adult because I could see and sympathize with the adults in this story. This book really showcases the disparity between child and adult perceptions on life, very refreshing to read and be reminded of as my children mature. I am so glad I picked up this book and gave it a chance. It was truly engaging and worth my time.

General Notes for Me for Later:
- 1930’s Rural Eastern Kentucky
- References to Roosevelt’s presidency and the Rural Electrification Administration
- Frontier nurses appear in the book
- References to the Pack Horse Library Project
- Mountain Life (herbs, gardening, foraging)
- Slightly detailed birth scene that may bring up questions for younger readers
- Inferences to parental physical abuse as a result of alcoholism
- Cora’s disobedience and deception at times to hide her actions from Mommy

[Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cora Mae Tipton yearns for electricity to come to her Kentucky mountain in 1937. Convinced of its benefits, she and her best friend set out to educate their classmates through a school newspaper, in hopes they will persuade parents to join the electric cooperative. Resistance to change comes from where it matters most – Cora’s and Ceilly’s own homes. As much as Cora loves her rural mountain life, she knows that the future will require communication dependent upon electricity. Her dream of becoming a journalist also depends on light for nighttime exam studies. Cora will win readers’ hearts as she navigates the demands of a mother suffering from depression, the near tragedy of an injured brother, and her own sorrow in her quest to bring light to Shadow Mountain.

Author Toni Buzzeo has created a detailed setting for well-developed characters in this story of friendship, family, and personal motivation. While the action keeps the reader turning the page, Light Comes to Shadow Mountain is a rare gem of a book that invites reflection. Readers who love Lauren Wolk’s Echo Mountain will love Light Comes to Shadow Mountain.

[Jessica Harrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Light Comes to Shadow Mountain is picture book author Toni Buzzeo’s debut middle-grade novel, but it doesn’t read like one. Buzzeo, a former elementary school librarian, captures the time, place and characters with heartfelt grace.

The story unfolds from Cora’s point of view. Cora dreams of life beyond her home. She dreams of high school and college. She dreams of the modern marvels people in the city enjoy. Marvels like electricity and the lights and machines it powers.

Cora is bright and driven. She looks forward to change while her mother fears it. These opposing views drive Buzzeo’s story forward, forcing Cora — and readers — to consider the pros and cons of progress. Both Cora and her mother are well conceived, as are Buzzeo’s supporting characters.

Light Comes to Shadow Mountain is a fascinating historical fiction read. Buzzeo has clearly done her research when it comes to the rollout of electricity in rural America. It’s a compelling backdrop on which her story of family, friendship and loss are explored. Many a daughter will relate to the mother/daughter dynamic that plays out here.

[Emilee (emileereadsbooks) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always appreciate middle grade fiction that takes me to a new time or place. While I have visited Appalachia before in a book, this story felt as fresh as it did familiar.

The struggle in this community to hold onto to their way of life while also embracing advancement and the ease modern conveniences can bring was powerful and would lead to some great conversations with other readers (of any age) about the benefits and detriments that technology can have.

One thing I love about his book it is feels appropriately written from the perspective of a middle grade girl. Her language and logic felt true to that age and therefore appropriate for middle grade readers. She had to fall under the authority of adults and was made to see their perspectives even when she didn’t agree with them.

This is a book about family, friendship, a way of life, and learning what to hold fast to. I think it is appropriate for middle grade audiences and is an enjoyable read for any age.

Content Note: depression, grief, fire/burns, childbirth, premature baby, domestic violence

Thank you to Holiday House for the digital copy. All opinions are my own.

[Rita · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It is a juvenile book, but it speaks to adults too. The story is set in the mid-1930s in the mountains of Kentucky. Cora has dreams of being a journalist and has an inquisitive mind. When she finds out there is an opportunity to bring electricity to her area, she tries to figure out how to make it happen when some folks, including her mother, do not want their way of life disrupted.

I felt drawn to this book because Cora is growing up in the Appalachian mountains of Kentucky during the 1930s without electricity, automobiles, or any of the modern "conveniences" and my mother was born in 1933 and grew up in the same situation in the Appalachian area of southwest Virginia. She passed away a couple of years ago, and suffered with dementia for several years prior. As I was growing up, she she only told a handful of stories about that time, and I never really asked her much. After it became too late, I began to think of many questions I wish I had asked. And reading this book, I thought of more, but I also felt more of a connection to my mother knowing how similar her life would have been to Cora's.

[Janelle Winters · Rating 5 out of 5]

I learned a lot from this story! Electricity came to some rural parts of America less than 100 years ago, and it was so interesting to learn about life in the Kentucky mountains before this modern convenience made its way into those communities. I also loved the extra info at the end about the packhorse librarians and the Frontier Nursing Service. I’m definitely planning to check out some of the additional resources mentioned at the end of the book.

****Spoilers below****

One thing that bothered me was that the mother never apologized to Cora for treating her poorly in her grief and anger, even though they made amends. The mother needed Cora to see her point of view to better understand what her beliefs were grounded in, but then didn’t extend that same grace to understand what Cora was going through. It seems like some of those hurts would take longer to heal and begged some explanation and apology from the adults to help the healing process. But I also recognize that it was likely not common practice to do that in those days, and it’s likely the author was trying to stay true to what a strained parent/child relationship would have looked like at that time.

[Caroline · Rating 5 out of 5]

Both the reader and the English teacher in me adored this book. This is the story of a young girl named Cora Mae Tipton determined to convince the folks of her small mountain town in the late 1930s that electricity will change their lives for the better. Cora encounters much opposition along the way, most notably from her “Mommie” who, as Cora’s “Pap” says is battling a “demon catfish” after the loss of her oldest daughter. While the strained relationship between Cora and her mother was heartbreaking to read, it quickly became clear that the title of this book refers not only to the literal light the town receives but the mental healing Cora’s mother receives as well. Cora was an incredible main character, the perfect blend of Laura Ingalls and Anne Shirley. This book is ripe with opportunities for any English teacher seeking a historical fiction novel: a unique setting, dynamic characters with differing motivations and viewpoints, a climatic plot, and charming figures of speech. I highly recommend this gem of a book!

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

11yo Cora Mae Tipton has some great dreams - she wants to do well in school, well enough to get a scholarship to a High School, and someday work as a journalist. But for right now, she would love for her home to be one of the first on the mountain to receive electricity. Electric Lights! Just imagine, Cora could read and study after dark! But her mother, the mountain's herbalist won't hear of it - too much change, the introduction of electricity into their homes will ruin everything.

Beautifully written and so engaging! I loved Cora and her best friend Cielly, they were the perfect schemers and planners. Cora's twin brothers were realistic 4 year olds, and even Cora's cousin from the city was well developed. Buzzeo's descriptions of the girls pressing baby clothes with the stove-heated irons, the danger of the soap making, and the one room school house were fantastic. I love nostalgia, especially the Great Depression, unfortunately, it's a hard sell to my middle school students.

Cross posted to http://kissthebook.blogspot.com

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Light Comes to Shadow Mountain. The author, Toni Buzzeo, takes readers to the mountains of Kentucky in 1937. President Roosevelt recently enacted The Rural Electrification Act to bring electricity to remote areas such as the mountain area where 11-year-old Cora Mae Tipton lives with her family. When Cora first learns of the REA, she wants in. She wants electricity both at home and school so she can read and write after the sun goes down and also so life will be easier for her weary mama. However, it's her mama who's the most against bringing electricity to Shadow Mountain. She's worried it will ruin their way of life which has remained the same for generations. Will Cora ever be able to change her stubborn mama's mind?

This is a story full of family, friendship, and determination. It also teaches about history in an engaging way.

Huge thanks to Holiday House / Peachtree / Pixel+Ink, and NetGalley for a review copy of this wonderful book!

[Toni · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's near the end of the Great Depression even though poverty abounds and jobs are scarce in southeast Kentucky. there is a possibility of Cora's town to get electrified and Cora wants it badly even though many in town don't want the change or the expense. Cora and her friend, Cielly, devise a plan to raise moeny to electrify their school so they could study for scholarships to higher education.

Buzzeo gives Cora's character that of an unsung hero, based on a real event. Cora makes sunse. Buzzeo also gives insight into what family life and small town life was like during this era and what modern innovation came to them and how it changed their lives.

Light Comes to Shadow Mountain was a delightful book with good historical overtones. Having grandchildren in this age group encouraged me to read this book. I will pass it down. AND reading middle grade and/or young adult books are quite refreshing at times.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is historical fiction at its very best! As an adult, I was so wrapped up in the story that I could not put it down. Who would have thought that the advent of electricity in a small Appalachian town could be so fascinating? But told through the eyes of a very bright and industrious child who has two sidekicks to aid her, we see an entire world considering what change would do to and for their town. There is initiative, adventure, mishaps, successes and all the elements that would appeal to a young reader. On top of that, it is educational and thought provoking without being the least bit preachy. This is just the kind of high-quality book that any parent or teacher would want for their young reader.

Thank you to NetGalley for an advance copy of this book. I was pleasantly surprised to enjoy it even more than I expected.

[Kim Wilch · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s 1930 in the Kentucky Mountains. Cora and her classmates are excited for “electrification”. This means radios and refrigerators, lights and longing. The adults weren’t so enthused. How would this step forward affect the landscape of their beloved land? After all, this would be a permanent change. Cora sets out to convince enough people on the mountain to sign up for electricity. This is a story of family connections, change, but most of all, love. 

The writing is remarkable with fantastic detail and in-the-moment longing. The tension ratchets up between progress and staying the same - many will recognize this as a struggle that continues today.

The addition of the Rural Electrification Act, Appalachian foliage, Pack Horse Library Project, and the historical trivia section for readers were added bonuses. I loved this book and everything about it.

[Malcolm · Rating 5 out of 5]

I grew up in the Atlanta suburbs, and was always interested in learning about life out in the country. This is a very well told and interesting story, full of period detail, about the uncertainties and insecurities that arise when there is an opportunity to bring electricity to a traditional mountain town in 1930’s Kentucky. The characters are distinctive and well drawn, especially the three girls who are in favor of the proposal and trying to convince their elders, who are afraid that the land that they love will be torn up and their mountain traditions lost. The story builds to an unexpected and exciting climax when an emergency strikes and the heroine is required to take adult-level action on her own to save a younger sibling.

[Stephanie Flynn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cora wants to bring electricity to Shadow Mountain, a small mountain town of Eastern Ky. Many obstacles stand in her way. I felt the portrayal of Eastern Ky was well done and I liked the characters. The book however did not keep my attention. The pace was uneven and parts were much too long. If I struggled to sustain attention, I wonder how a middle schooler will do. In the authors note it was mentioned that Cora was initially meant to be a character in a children’s picture book. There is more story than a picture book would allow but I think it would have been much better had it been tightened up.

[Tirzah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm glad to have stumbled upon this book while cataloging it for school. It is set in 1930s rural Kentucky, giving young readers an introduction to electricity's beginnings. It also considers the negative and positive impacts inventions have on society. I was strongly reminded of Eugene's dialogue on automobiles from The Magnificent Ambersons.

I recommend for historical fiction readers, particularly as a class read aloud so teachers can further describe the way of life to children, which probably seems ancient to them, especially since my students think the 1990s are ancient!