Kin: A Memoir by Shawna Kay Rodenberg

The fad in memoir these days is to skip around all over the place, and I don’t like it. But I’m glad this memoir was written and found a publisher, which it probably would not have found as an autobiography. The title establishes this memoir as quintessentially Appalachian, as we are known for placing kinship ties above all else. And it also clarifies that Shawna Kay Rodenberg is more greatly concerned with the impact of her kinfolks, even generations back, than herself or her Letcher County, Kentucky, homeplace. This memoir is exemplary for its drama, its writing style and for its compelling protagonist. “I hope this book will fall into the hands of everyone who has ever swallowed their words, hid their scars, been mocked, laughed at, or ignored. Rodenberg's lyricism, mastery of form, and command of image and metaphor are matched only by the power of her honesty and the precision of her recall. Kin will endure and bring light and warmth to all who encounter this beautiful book.” ―Robe