The 2021 One Book One Valley is The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek, as chosen by the readers of the Estes Valley. Copies now available for check-out. A month of programs this January. Watch the Video Announcement

Since its beginning almost a decade ago, One Book One Valley has been a celebration of community and literacy. It’s a chance for all of us to come together in the reading of a single book. It’s for conversation and learning with fellow readers — and to make new friends along the way. With the myriad challenges our valley has faced in recent months, this opportunity to connect is more important than ever. We invite you to join us in reading The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson, chosen by Estes Valley readers as the next One Book One Valley.

Kirkus Reviews calls it, “A unique story about Appalachia and the healing power of the written word.” Inspired by the true blue-skinned people of Kentucky and the brave and dedicated Kentucky Pack Horse library service of the 1930s, The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek is a story of raw courage, fierce strength, and one person’s belief that books can carry us anywhere—even back home.

Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines troublesome as ‘difficult, burdensome.’ And although using those words to describe the last part of October might be an understatement for Estes Valley residents, it’s worth noting The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek was selected as a finalist much earlier this year, well before the 2020 wildfires got their names. We DO hope the spirit of One Book One Valley will prevail, and we can reclaim the word “Troublesome” for something positive and encouraging.

The Library encourages readers to check out the winning book, available in regular print and large print editions, an audiobook edition on CD, as well as eBook and eAudio formats. All accessible with your Library Card. Curbside appointments are also available for convenient pick-up. Or you can visit or call Macdonald Book Shop to purchase a personal copy. Macdonald Book Shop has been a longtime supporter of One Book One Valley, and we’re grateful for their partnership.

Programs begin this January. Author Kim Michele Richardson will lead a program for the Estes Valley on Saturday, January 30 at 7 PM. She writes, “Thank you, Estes Valley, I’m so honored and appreciative!” And we thank her for a book to help us unite as a community; to find time to read during our busy days; to have conversations that span generations and cultures; and to reconnect with your hometown library.

One Book One Valley is made possible through the generous donors of the Estes Valley Library Friends & Foundation.