⭐⭐⭐⭐ Who knew that the term “redneck” had its roots in a bloody labor uprising in West Virginia? I certainly didn’t! That’s just one of the fascinating things I learned from Taylor Brown’s Rednecks, a historical novel based on the West Virginia Mine Wars of 1920–1921. The story follows thousands of coal miners who fought against brutal working conditions, intimidation, and the powerful coal companies that controlled their lives. Their rebellion culminated in the Battle of Blair Mountain, the largest labor uprising in American history. Brown brings this turbulent period to life through a colorful cast of characters on both sides of the conflict. I especially appreciated learning about real-life […]