Mountain Mysteries 2: The Unexplained

Those who inhabit, or are descended from roots in, the Appalachian Mountains tend to be connected to the invisible things of the world. Even people who rigidly deny the existence of ghosts will acknowledge that there are some things that simply have no logical explanation. This conviction often fuels an oral story telling tradition handed down from generation to generation. The stories in this volume represent a new step in an old direction as the students of Wallins' sixth grade went out into the community to gather stories old and new to share with each other, and the world. In addition to the local tales, special guest writers like Silas House and Jack Wright lend a hand and a tale or two.These spooky tales help us always to be mindful of our need for stories as a way to help us explain the unexplainable.-Marianne Worthington, author of Larger Bodies Than MineThere's so much to love here. Students going out into their community and talking with their families; students learning that their local culture is rich and meaningful; students discovering the craft of writing is possible and necessary. You'll love the process as well as the product. - Chad Berry, Director of the Appalachian Center, Berea CollegeRead it for the history or read it for the mystery, but whatever you do, read this book. It's the real stuff. - Robert Gipe, director, Appalachian Program, Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College.Drawing from the rich oral histories shared by families, friends, and neighbors, Judith and her students have pulled together a fascinating and chilling set of tales that come straight from the heart of Appalachia. - Robert J. Smith, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Psychology. Berea CollegeAnother generation of storytellers has appeared and their work will undoubtedly inspire others to follow their excellent examples. The stories provide an insight to the people and the region and provide entertaining reading for students and adults. Congratulations on a job well done! - Barry Shainbaum -International photographer, Author of Hope and Heroes, and Radio Talk Show Host; Toronto, Ontario, CanadaDrawing from the rich oral histories shared by families, friends, and neighbors, Judith and her students have pulled together a fascinating and chilling set of tales that come straight from the heart of Appalachia".-Robert J. Smith, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Psychology, Berea College