This is a must-read for those interested in Appalachian culture’s historical development, social values, music, religion, and social problems. Written for a general or academic audience, or as a supplement to courses in history, sociology, or other social sciences, the book adds to the narratives of Ken Burns’ Country Music, David McCollough’s The Pioneers, J.D. Vance’s Hillbilly Elegy. It’s a page turner!

Jeanne Ballantine, Wright State University

In Search of Appalachia paints an intimate and respectful portrait of the people of Appalachia. In a conversational tone enlivened with entertaining anecdotes and interviews, Diggs illustrates the spiritual and cultural values unique to Appalachians and shows how they have survived the many challenges they have faced.

Bob Taft, Governor of Ohio 1999–2007, co-chair, Appalachian Regional Comission, 2005

In an era when the truth about everything is crucially needed, author Nancy Diggs unveils the true soul of Appalachia, a region commonly depicted by stereotypes of poverty, ignorance, and violence. From coal mines to mountain churches to dance halls of country music, Diggs explores it all, sculpting new images as she introduces her readers to strong, creative, hardworking folks—many having survived tough times through their music, religion, and sheer strength gained from hardscrabble pasts. Unearthing such gems from a terrain of misconceptions, Diggs’ spirited In Search of Appalachia brings to life what Walt Whitman claimed in Leaves of Grass, as Diggs writes, ‘The best of America lies in its common people.’ This excellently researched book will help to fulfill its author’s greatest hope: that Appalachia ‘be met with the celebration it deserves.’

Ann Hagedorn, author of Wild Ride, Ransom, Beyond the River, Savage Peace, and The Invisible Soldiers