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.

*Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book for review, all opinions are my own*

2.5 stars

I really like books told from a child's point of view, and I like it even more when we're in a different historical period because I feel like we see a different view of the world.
So a book like this where the historical background is difficult and told from a child's point of view really caught my attention, I was really excited to read it, but unfortunately it wasn't for me.
I thought that even though it's not a bad book, I felt that this story dragged on a bit and was not that interesting, even though the historical period was very different to read and I enjoyed learning more about it, I felt that the book was too childish but at the same time I don't feel that it is a book for children because the theme is not for children's, so I was a little confused about the purpose of this book other than telling a little bit about this historical period and disappointed that I didn't like the story more.
I don't know who I would recommend this book to!

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the e-ARC of this beautiful historical fiction novel.

I loved this book. Reminiscent of Lauren Wolk's Echo Mountain, mountain living isn't for the weak, and though Cora loves her family, their mountain, and their way of life, she longs for progress. She wants a washing machine to make her mother's work lighter, an electric stove to protect her twin brothers, and a lightbulb to read by. I loved the relationship she built with her cousin, and the thoughtful way she examined the conflicting opinions on bringing electricity to Appalachia. My students will love this one.

If you've ever met me in person, you probably know that herbalism is my not-so-secret love. I regularly have bunches of herbs hanging from my rafters, and crafting healing tea blends is one of my love languages.
So it's no surprise that my favorite part of this sweet and thought-provoking book by Toni Buzzeo is all the herb craft! Of all the rather obscure bits of knowledge this book made use of, I found that element to be the best researched and most fascinating--the way it was integrated into the ending of the story was just perfection.
I also loved the way following Cora Mae Tipton's story of trying to bring electricity to her 1930's Kentucky town made me think about all the pros and cons of every bit of progress we accept...
Do you think much about what electricity cost us? Would you give it up if you could?
This would make a great book club choice for young readers, with so much to think about and discuss -- best enjoyed while sipping some lemon balm and rosehip tea, perhaps.

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. (This was also posted on Goodreads, but I’m having problems attaching the link.)

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed this book. I loved the main character!

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.

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!

#LightComestoShadowMountain #NetGalley

Unfortunately I was unable to download this novel before the archive date, and can no longer provide an advanced review. I look forward to reading and reviewing the finished copy when it is published.

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.

Took me a bit to get into this one, as Cora and her friends are obsessed with getting electricity (it is in the early 1930s). It is written from Cora's point of view, and at times reminds me of the wonderful Canadian stories of Avonlea. Enjoyed this one, and highly recommend it. Gives a good feeling and insight into the poor during the depression era in eastern Kentucky. Good read.

4⭐️

The year is 1937 and Cora and her family are some of the last Americans to be living without electricity, but once she finds out about Roosevelt's Rural Electrification Administration, she becomes single-mindedly focused on bringing electricity into her home, even if her mommy is set against it.



I loved so many of the interesting historical details in this story from the pack horse librarians to the traditional herbs and medicine used by Cora's mommy. While it did take me some time to get into, I thoroughly enjoyed the second half and the ending had me tearing up! Overall, a very interesting and powerful middle grade historical fiction on a topic I did not know much about.

* 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!

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.

"Light Comes to Shadow Mountain" is a captivating and heartwarming historical fiction novel that transports readers to the mountains of southeastern Kentucky in 1937. Toni Buzzeo, an award-winning author and former librarian, weaves a tale of resilience, determination, and the power of community in the face of change.

Buzzeo's lyrical and literary prose effortlessly captures the spirit and essence of the Appalachian landscape. Through Cora's eyes, readers experience the deep connection between the people and their environment. The author expertly explores the tension between progress and tradition, as Cora's own mother fiercely opposes electrification, valuing the preservation of their holler and the natural resources it provides.

As Cora faces resistance from her own family and community, readers are taken on a poignant journey of self-discovery and the pursuit of one's dreams. Cora's unwavering determination is both inspiring and relatable, reminding us of the power of optimism and perseverance in the face of adversity.

"Light Comes to Shadow Mountain" is a shining example of the power of storytelling to transport readers to another time and place. Toni Buzzeo's debut novel beautifully captures the spirit of Appalachia, celebrates the importance of family and friendship, and reminds us of the significance of embracing change while cherishing our roots. This is a must-read for anyone seeking a heartfelt and uplifting tale that resonates long after the final page is turned.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Holiday House through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you so much!

When Cora learns that her home and school in the mountains of Kentucky may finally have electricity as part of the government’s 1937 initiative, she can’t contain her excitement. But others oppose the advancements and refuse to embrace change, fearing it will disrupt their peaceful lives and the beauty of nature surrounding them. Author Toni Buzzeo creates a beautiful story of a girl who must decide whether to stand up for her beliefs or fall in line with authority. The author delicately weaves together a story of loss, friendship, and the desire for her mother’s acceptance.

Inspiring historical fiction for 9-13 year olds.

Thank you Holiday House and NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are my own.

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

“Light Comes to Shadow Mountain” is a historical middle grade novel written by Toni Buzzeo.

I am honored to have received an eARC from Net Galley and Holiday House.

“Light Comes to Shadow Mountain” will be released on July 11, 2023.

This book is a glimpse back in time. When electricity wasn’t commonplace. Full of friendship, family, tradition, love, and dreams for the future- there are many different characters who all bring a different personality and perspective to the story. I was drawn to each one for different reasons. I worried about how the story would end- and it did not disappoint.

I recommend this novel for middle grade readers.

"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."

Sometimes it's hard to grasp that even electricity is not that old an invention.

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!