Set in the rugged backwoods of 1930s Kentucky, Jane Yolen’s The Horseback Librarians invites readers to journey alongside Anna Mary—a pack horse librarian with a name that rhymes with “library.” This charming story, illustrated by Alexandra Badiu, captures the spirit of the women who delivered books to children and families across the Appalachian Mountains.
Through lovely prose and dynamic illustrations, Yolen and Badiu transport readers into Anna Mary’s world. We follow her as she braves the wilderness, sleeps in barns and schoolhouses, and shares beloved classics with eager young readers. When Anna Mary visits Adam, she selects Andy and the Lion by James Daugherty and Abraham Lincoln by Ingri and Edgar Parin d’Aulaire—perfect choices for this young reader. Each delivery offers a nod to timeless children’s literature, a thoughtful tribute to the transformative power of books.
Beyond the deliveries, the story highlights Anna Mary’s resilience, her care for her community, and the strong relationships she builds along the way. We see her not only as a book carrier but as a lifeline to the outside world for many families.
The illustrations are bright and rich, capturing both the beauty of the Appalachian landscape and the warmth of the characters.
With a growing number of books celebrating horseback librarians, this one stands out for its heartfelt storytelling and its celebration of the classics that shaped generations of readers. Librarians and book lovers alike will treasure this beautifully crafted homage to literacy and community.
The Horseback Librarians is a must-read—and a must-have—for anyone passionate about the history of books and the people who bring them to life.