As an avid reader I cannot begin to imagine going through life unable to read. It was a foreign concept to Lucy Wilson also until she traveled to Rowan County, Kentucky to work for her father’s cousin Cora Wilson Stewart, the first woman superintendent of education in that area. As a city girl who had been provided with everything she needed, Lucy’s first encounter with the impoverished mountain people was a rude awakening. Everything and everyone she encountered was alien to her previous experience.

With the eager help of Finn, the more reluctant help of Angie, and the quiet wisdom of Brother Wyatt, Lucy gradually became adjusted to the area and even grew comfortable with the horse she rode to visit the scattered inhabitants of the mountain. She grew to love many of the mountain people and felt increasingly burdened to help them.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the customs of the mountain people and particularly found interesting the mention of using shaped notes to teach music to those who could not read. One of my own ancestors, Mennonite Bishop Joseph Funk was instrumental in the use of shaped notes and wrote an extensive book about their use that is still in use today. How I wish I could have been in Lucy’s shoes the first time she experienced a singing.

The Moonlight School is a beautiful story with vivid descriptions of the land and people of early 1900 hill country of Kentucky. While based on the true story of Cora Wilson Stewart, this book is a fictional account that features Lucy and Wyatt. A bit of mystery and a sweet romance round the story out to make a thoroughly satisfying read. There is much more to discover than I have described so I would recommend picking up a copy for yourself as soon as possible. I don’t think you will regret it.

Thanks to Revell for the free book. I loved this historical fiction book set in the mountainous region in Kentucky. Cora Wilson Stewart was a remarkable woman, and I love how the author captured her personality and passion in this book. Lucy’s transformation was also so well done. She has a lot of learning to do, and I liked the characters surrounding her helping her shape into the woman she wants to be. Finlay and Angie and Wyatt all add depth and fun to the story. I think the personal challenges, along with societal challenges were captured well in this book. Such a gripping and interesting historical fiction novel.

I almost didn't request this book when I saw it was written by a romance author . . . but I am SO glad I gave it a chance! This story was so well written, so well told, that I absolutely fell in love with it. The tale is told slowly, rambles a bit, and ties together three story lines -- Finley James, the mountain boy who refuses to go to school; Angie Cooper, the girl of the mountains who absolutely thrives; and Lucy Wilson, the wealthy daughter of a mountain boy who moved to the city and did well for himself. And the rambling tale, the quaint language, the mountain lore and the accents and the work God did up in those mountains, was absolutely amazing to read about!

This story was based on truth, and, having a fondness for 1) a southern tale, 2) a tale about the Appalachian mountains, and 3) a story with native accents and languages and original phrasing and words, this tale absolutely made my heart happy!

The story lines all weave in and out among themselves, twisting and turning and finally coming to a beautiful conclusion in the end. All the loose ends are tied up wonderfully, and the ending was bittersweet, but perfect. The characters were a joy to meet and to watch grow. Lucy, the girl who had never done anything for herself, discovers the joy in venturing out of her comfort zone and serving others who find themselves in less fortunate circumstances. She learns the peace and usefulness one can feel from going against the expected social norms and socializing with those she felt were below her, discovering that, in fact, they really weren't very different than she was.

Finley James discovers that you can, indeed, get far in life with an education, and applies himself to reading -- far surpassing everyone's expectations. He gets himself some ambition, and he gets it mighty fast. I was cheering for him as he so easily conquered his lessons.

And Angie Cooper -- her surliness and grumpiness towards Lucy, and her tenderness and care and empathy towards the children and older people in the holler totally captured my heart. And then she figures her heart problem is a thing called sin, and she asks the Greater Physician of all to heal her heart, and she becomes even more dear to my heart!

Through many twists and turns, these characters learn to lean upon God and trust Him in all things. I appreciated that the tale was told from a Christian perspective, and that the various characters did indeed seek to honor God and prayed for His will to be done. So often in Christian fiction, even when based in fact, there is a trite "the characters go to church on Sunday" but they never do anything else to signify that they are seeking Jesus Christ. This book was full of characters who sought to live out their faith, and it was wonderful!

So . . . the romance aspect. Because I know a lot of people don't "do" romance, and this author is actually one that I've not read before because of the romance contained within her plots. I gave her a chance, and I am SO glad I did, as I mentioned before. I don't want to say too much and give it away, but basically because of her father's influence, there is a very selfish guy who ends up spending time with Lucy and when a better opportunity knocks, he's gone. And then there's the guy who you *think* might be interested, but never does say anything until the very end . . . when they know each other fairly well based on working together (my favorite kind of romance!) and working through some difficult things like dried up streams and loblolly pine groves that have been decimated.

There's the young man who thinks he's in love with the fancy lady, and the young lady who's "caught" the young man (even though he doesn't know it yet!) who feels threatened and I found it quite humorous, and not at all offensive, but I *am* an adult reader, so younger readers may not find the humor in it, and I can say that I in no way condone the crush and the resulting attitude that comes of it.

Really, everything that happens on the back cover happens in the last 1/8 or so of the book . . . and I really did enjoy it SO much! This was definitely a five star read, and I am SO thankful for Revell gifting me a copy to read! I was only asked to give my opinion on the story, and I wasn't required to enjoy it -- although I did!

The Moonlight School is a historical fiction title based on a true story. Those are my favorite kinds! Plus, this is a wonderful author that I enjoy everything she’s written. She does amazing Amish fiction and I’m pleased to say her historical fiction is amazing as well.

I love the premise of this book. Teaching adults to read. Really it’s true. Half the time when adults can’t read they don’t want to send their children to learn to read. They’re scared the children will be smarter than them or look down upon them. Others want their children to succeed.

While I’m not familiar with the people of this book I have read up on the times before and it was definitely a hard time in the mountains for the people. They never got the prosperous life that the cities brought to other rural communities.

I enjoyed meeting the main characters of the novel as well as the supporting roles. Cora is quite the dynamo wanting to bring literacy to her people while Lucy has a way to go to find herself and her calling. I can definitely say Lucy had no idea what she was getting into when she went to work for Cora!

This is a wonderful book that is going to keep you spellbound and also make you want to study your history.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

The Moonlight School by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Fans of The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek and The Giver of Stars will enjoy this inspirational story centered around Cora Wilson Stewart’s work to eliminate adult illiteracy in Rowan County, Kentucky.

After struggling with guilt, Lucy Wilson is sent to Morehead, Kentucky, to assist her cousin Cora Wilson Stewart, the school superintendent. Lucy’s assignment is to help the illiterate mountain people with their correspondence. As a result, Lucy learns many life lessons including an appreciation for their culture, education, values, natural resources, family, and faith. A little mystery and romance round out the storyline. Fisher’s novel beautifully depicts life in Appalachia during the early 1900’s.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

I am always a fan of Suzanne Woods Fisher. Her books are well written and well researched. She really puts herself into them. The Moonlight School brings to light the problem of illiteracy. What would it be like to not be able to read as an adult? The people within this book tell their stories with such poignancy. I learned so much from this book. Threaded throughout the book was a mystery which helped to enhance my enjoyment of the book. While given the circumstances many would have reacted differently, I would love to know how the characters continued after the last pen stroke. I received a copy through Netgalley. A review was not required.

Lucy has never forgiven herself for not paying attention to her little sister and allowing her to be kidnapped. Now as an adult she moves from Lexington, KY to Morehead, KY to help the superintendent of schools, Cora Wilson Stewart. While in Morehead Lucy learns more than being a secretary, she learns about love, God, and forgiveness.

Suzanne Woods Fisher is an author that I read without even looking at what the book is about. I was ecstatic to learn The Moonlight School was set in my home state of Kentucky and was based on the real Cora Wilson Stewart. I laughed, cried, and cheered as reading. This book is sure to touch everyone's hearts especially educators. Can you imagine taking up the task of organizing a way to teach all the illiterates in a county with no internet, phone, or funds?

I plan on gifting this book to several friends that I believe will get a lot of encouragement from Cora.

Triggers: Kidnapping, poverty, death of a parent

Suzanne Woods Fisher’s brand new novel "The Moonlight School" does not disappoint. Fisher is a brilliant and reliable author. Not only can you count on a fascinating story and historical accuracy, but also a daring to dabble in current issues and challenging cultural norms. In this novel education and literacy and the impact it has on independence and success is explored. I love that Fisher explores challenging concepts like this and laces them into historical context and a beautiful story. I find myself invested in the characters but also the injustices Fisher explores. This experience is not a first for me when it comes to the works for Suzanne Woods Fisher and it leaves me waiting with bated breath Fisher’s next publication.

An education, she believed, was the great equalizer, the answer to all of life’s injustices.

The only way to lift people is to teach them to lift themselves. Literacy is the only road to true freedom.

This story also dabbles in trauma and the impacts it can have on us, romance and societal norms, plus is filled with character development that I find subtle and captivating. Fisher’s characters never lack in depth, I find myself curious and impacted even by minor characters. In the prologue I was hooked, within pages Fisher had me engaged and flipping as fast as I could. Then I wanted to know about how Lucy’s life would turn out. As the story took that first unexpected turn I wondered what Lucy would do, learn, and how she would grow. As she encounters Brother Wyatt, “Fin” and the other inhabitants of the mountain trails I loved watching her evolve. I so appreciate the exploration of the history of literacy in America.

“We are going to set them free…. by the light of the moon… so they can find their way.” – Cora Wilson Stewart

The power of literacy! I highly recommend the story.

Thanks to Celebrate Lit Bloggers for my copy of the book. I read it using an e-reader and also listened to it through Libby and my local library. I loved the narration!

"The Moonlight School" was a very nice read.

I had absolutely no knowledge whatsoever of the specific time and place where the story took place (1911, Rowan County, Kentucky, US). I discovered that most people "living in the hills" were illiterate at that time, and that a great lady, Cora Wilson, did all she could to instruct as many people as possible. Although the setting and this character existed for real, other characters were more or less fictional, such as Cora's nice, Lucy. She is a young lady from the city that arrives in County Rowan and is horrified by the local people's living conditions—the poverty, dirt, lack of education. I found Lucy to be quite childish and delicate at the beginning, which was a bit annoying, but thankfully she grew into a dedicated person that did her best to help the "hillbillies". She grew close to Brother Wyatt, the singing schoolmaster (an interesting profession for a heart-warming character), to the young and "smart-as-a-whip" Finley James, to the prickly Angie.

I really liked the story but I wish it was less rushed—we barely felt the months go by and some events were barely mentioned. The story of the lost sister also seemed to be be there to add a bit of Christian morality... A part of the story was centred around the preparation for the Moonlight schools, and I regret not "seeing" more of these schools: how did they go? what did the people think about it? how many had their lives changed by it? There's a bit more explanation in the annex but not as much as could have been.

The ending could also have been a bit less open. We are left wondering about what happens to many of the characters, we're missing something—I feel a bit more closure would have been nice.

Special appreciation for the writing: there was a lot of "mountain slang" or word deformations, and I loved it!! It really transported us into the story. As a non-native English speaker, I appreciated that the words were explained in the preface and had no problem following the story.

I cannot say I "finish[ed] the last page of this enthralling story with deep gratitude for the gift of reading" at all, but I still very much enjoyed this read and would recommend it.

4.5 stars

*I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review*

A compelling historical fiction story of one woman who advocated for literacy for the people who lived in the mountains of Kentucky, and a host of absolutely delightful characters who help her including Lucy, Finley James, Angie, Wyatt and others. I enjoyed seeing a slice of what life was like at that time through the talented pen of Suzanne Woods Fisher. I loved it!

A beautiful tribute to the legacy of Cora Wilson Stewart who fought for literacy in Kentucky and her Moonlight Schools which began September 5, 1911.

I highly recommend The Moonlight School by Suzanne Woods Fisher!

What a wonderful book! I really enjoyed and learned a great deal reading this book. Now I find I so much want to share it with others. Because I live in Kentucky, am a librarian, teacher and reader, I was entirely pulled in by this story. I am not a fan of Amish stories but I’ve read and loved everything else that Suzanne Woods Fisher has written. But I think I love this book the most.
The story of how so many Kentucky hill people were illiterate and the real Cora Wilson’s Stewart’s fight for literacy was nothing short of remarkable. It was woven into fiction with wonderful supporting characters and fascinating historical facts. It certainly makes me grateful that I can read and shows how difficult life would be if I could not.
I loved the author’s Notes, Facts and Discussion Questions at the end. They made the story even better.
I recommend this book highly.
Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to read this ARC. The opinions are entirely my own.

Cora Wilson Stewart grew up in Rowan County, Kentucky, where she served as the superintendent of education in the spring of 1911. Her dream was to bring literacy to the hundreds of adults who never learned to fully read or write, which is why she created Moonlight Schools.
In "The Moonlight School," author Suzanne Woods Fisher tells Cora's story with a few fictional twists. The biggest twist is that the star of the book is not Cora but a relative Lucy Wilson. Haunted by her sister's mysterious disappearance years ago, Lucy travels to Morehead, Kentucky, to assist Cora and serve as a scribe for the mountain people. Here, she meets Brother Wyatt, a singing schoolmaster, Finlay James, a young student, and Angie Cooper, an aspiring school teacher. Each of these three people impacts Lucy and the path she takes to figure out her purpose and come to terms with her new job.
I really like the concept of the moonlight schools, and the book also calls attention to the value of literacy, which is a cause dear to my heart. I also like the history of the mountain people, including the storytellers and the music, and the author's discussion about the negative effects of the lumber industry on the area and how illiteracy led families to sign detrimental contracts. The discussion questions at the end were also helpful prompts that help readers internalize the lessons in this book.
After reading the author's notes at the end of the book, I felt disappointed that Cora wasn't the star. The book definitely needs a bit of editing, too. The story jumps between characters with no indication of the switch, and that left me feeling confused and disjointed. The writing also wasn't clear in places and left me wondering why the character thought, said or did something completely unrelated to what was happening.
This book does shed light on an important subject - literacy - and introduces readers to Cora Wilson Stewart, an important character in Kentucky's and our country's development.

“ Happy are those whose purpose has found them.”

Lucy Wilson agrees to go to Morehead, Kentucky to help her cousin Cora with clerical duties but she believes that in six months she will return to her privileged life in Lexington. Little does she know that she'll soon be riding horseback into the hills and hollows of Rowan County, witnessing living conditions she never dreamed possible, and teaching children how to read. She wasn't meant to be a teacher! Singing teacher Brother Wyatt offers her friendship and encourgement, but more importantly, a chance to grow spiritually. Is it possible that their relationship may deepen into something more, as they work with Cora to provide night schools for the many illiterate adults of Rowan County, Kentucky?

I KNEW I had to read this book when I first heard it mentioned last fall. I live about twenty-five miles from Morehead so I've long known about Cora Wilson Stewart and the Moonlight Schools but, after reading this story, I truly understand this tremendous legacy. It's apparent that a lot of time and effort went into researching Stewart's life and Susanne Woods Fisher has seamlessly integrated fictional characters and historical facts into a heartwarming story that you won't soon forget! These realistic characters are so endearing and I found myself often referring to the end notes to see who was a real person!

The difficulties encountered and the long ago disappearance of Lucy's baby sister add intrigue to Fisher's well-written plot but the real strength of The Moonlight School is in the depiction of emotions experienced by both teachers and students. We all know the joy young children feel when learning to read but try to understand the tremendous sense of accomplishment felt by adult men and women who had been illiterate all of their lives! This is historical fiction at its finest and an excellent reminder of the value of literacy. I highly recommend The Moonlight School by Suzanne Woods Fisher.

I voluntarily accepted a digital copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley but was in no way obligated to write a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

I have just finished reading The Moonlight School by Suzanne Woods Fisher. Although I’ve read many of Ms. Fisher’s novels, I have to say that this one was by far my most favorite. I’m not sure if it is because of the Appalachian area of Kentucky which the story is about, which has always been a source of wonder for me; or if it is because of the people and the depth of their characters which drew me in.

I absolutely loved this book and was sorry when I’d finished it. That is was based on the true story of Cora Wilson Stewart and her campaign to bring literacy to the mountain people living in the hills and hollows of this part of Kentucky in the early part of the 20th century makes it all the more intriguing a read. I especially enjoyed reading about some of the superstitions of the mountain people and their reasons for believing them.

It was easy for me to see that after living among these people, one would count them as a wonderful people whose stories should be saved and retold. I feel that Ms. Fisher captured the real essence of the work that Ms. Stewart was able to accomplish and the struggle that she had to endure to prove that literacy is the road to prosperity and self-esteem.

Lucy has been living in the past chasing the ghost of her little sister that disappeared when she was supposed to watching Charlotte. She is requested to help a relative, Cora Wilson Stewart, who is the superintendent in a rural county in Kentucky. At first, she feels like she is in a different country as she slowly adjusts to the language and cultural ways.

It is hard to adequately express how much I enjoyed this book. Possibly it is because I am a teacher who enjoys teaching reading. Perhaps it is because I love the folklore the mountains hold. All those are components but the most important reason is because the author did such a great job weaving a story about Lucy’s discovery of her purpose as well as the start of a new program for the illiterate people of the mountains. The best part is Cora Wilson Stewart was a real person who worked hard to offer freedom to the people in her region so they could read for themselves.

My favorite theme was Lucy’s search for a purpose. I love the message Wyatt patiently shares with her as she seeks to know her purpose in life. The guidance is meaningful for anyone reading the book as well.

I really enjoyed this book and would really recommend reading this book. I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own and I was not required to leave a positive review.

“If you don’t mind a bit of advice, be careful not to judge mountain folks by city standards. We’re all human beings and have thoughts and dreams like everybody else.” The Moonlight School by Suzanne Woods is a story about the life of Cora Wilson Stewart in the Appalachian Mountains of Kentucky during 1911, she brought literacy to the illiterate mountain folks. The
A story of perseverance, love, and faith. Lucy Wilson arrives in Rowan County, Kentucky to help her cousin, Cora Wilson Stewart. Lucy comes from the city and gets more than she bargained for as she becomes a caring young lady who is ready to fight for the rights of the mountain people. Moonlight Schools based on a true story brings illiteracy to the front.
I enjoyed the book and am now more aware of how many people can not read and how it can affect them. Part historical fiction, part true events, part love story. The Moonlight School brings to light the story that shocked a nation into taking adult literacy. A must read! I highly recommend the book.
“I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.”

Title: The Moonlight School

Author: Suzanne Woods Fisher

Ch: 25

Pg: 320

Genre: Christian Historical fiction

Rating: 4.5 stars

Publisher: Revell



I’m a sucker for books set in my home state especially because that includes an unique piece of history of my state. The Moonlight School is my first book by Suzanne Woods Fisher and I loved it.



This book is historical fiction not really historical romance which I enjoyed. I also loved that the author wove in both historical and fictional characters to create a wonderful story that brought notice to adult ill literacy with the story of Cora Wilson Stewart’s moonlight schools. In which she used to help the adults people of Rowan county learn to read. Because learning to read leads to knowledge and knowledge is power. She is a Kentucky heroine and wish more people knew about her. I love how her story came to life through the point of view of her fictional cousin Lucy.



However Kentucky today has one of the highest I’ll-literary rate in the country. As a library employee I hope that this fictional novel brings attention to this issue.







I received a complimentary copy The Moonlight School from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.



I received a copy of this book from the publisher through netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

Set in Rowan County Kentucky in the early 1900s, this book is based on a factual effort by Cora Wilson Stewart to overcome illiteracy. She established a program, called Moonlight Schools, to provide education in reading, writing, math, and other subjects to anyone in the county willing to learn. The schools actually meet by the light of the moon for four evenings a week for a six week period. Ms. Stewart’s efforts were recognized by President Hoover and she inspired similar schools to be established all across the United States.

This is not only a highly inspirational book, it is also a joy to read. I so enjoyed learning about the culture and lives of the mountain people in Kentucky during this time period. It also teaches some very valuable life lessons. There’s even humor, a bit of romance and even a bit of mystery included.

I highly recommend this book for everyone. It is a clean, wholesome read.

The Moonlight School by Suzanne Woods Fisher
Ms. Suzanne knocked this one out of the ballpark. One of the finest historical fictions I have read. I could feel Lucy grow into a fine young woman, could picture her fine demeanor, hear her talking with correct diction and see her climb up on her horse. Father Wyatt and Cora were also fine characters.
Oh my stars and garters, what a great read with so much heart. Brought a tear to my eye when the doors were open in the Brushy School. One devoted, dedicated person changed an entire community and generations to follow. Cora was a remarkable woman, I am glad to have had the pleasure of reading this yarn.
I thank Revell and NetGalley for allowing me the opportunity to read an ARC, this was an awesome read. High 5 stars!!!!

The Moonlight School
by Suzanne Woods Fisher
Back of the Book: “Haunted by her sister's mysterious disappearance, Lucy Wilson arrives in Rowan County, Kentucky, in the spring of 1911 to work for Cora Wilson Stewart, superintendent of education. When Cora sends Lucy into the hills to act as scribe for the mountain people, she is repelled by the primitive conditions and intellectual poverty she encounters. Few adults can read and write.
Born in those hills, Cora knows the plague of illiteracy. So does Brother Wyatt, a singing schoolmaster who travels through the hills. Involving Lucy and Wyatt, Cora hatches a plan to open the schoolhouses to adults on moonlit nights. The best way to combat poverty, she believes, is to eliminate illiteracy. But will the people come?
As Lucy emerges from a life in the shadows, she finds purpose; or maybe purpose finds her. With purpose comes answers to her questions, and something else she hadn't expected: love.
Inspired by the true events of the Moonlight Schools, this standalone novel from bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher brings to life the story that shocked the nation into taking adult literacy seriously. You'll finish the last page of this enthralling story with deep gratitude for the gift of reading.”
Impressions: This was a great book with a rich history!
Rated: Nothing much to fret over
Liked: I loved the characters of this book. There was growth and development as Lucy learns who she is and where she comes from. I really enjoyed Angie’s spunk and person. Cora of course was inspirational as well. It was an enjoyable but historically educational read.
Disliked: I mostly dislike that I have to wait for the next book… On a more constructive note, I don’t like when books start with a Glossary at the beginning. It makes me feel like the book might get too cryptic to enjoy. I don’t want to start with a spider’s web of information before I’ve read the first sentence. It’s just off putting to me and I’d prefer it at the end or not included.
Quotes:
“‘It takes an effort of the imagination to put oneself in the place of the illiterate. To picture what life is like for one who must get all his information by ear. If a man cannot read or write or vote, he cannot speak. He is mute. He is forgotten. You might think it’s a pity they cannot read, but the real tragedy is they cannot speak.’ She picked up her pen. ‘That, Lucy is the real tragedy of the twentieth century.’”
“’I’ve learned enough in my life to move forward with the snowball approach.’ ‘How’s that?’ ‘Just start rolling the ball’…’It will all come together in the end.’” -This is not how I fly but I sometimes need to. I prefer to research and prepare and find myself getting stuck in this stage, never taking action.
“’I knew, at that moment, that I must rest on the sovereignty of the All Mighty in this deep sadness. That I would claim the promise of Romans 8:28 and trust that ‘all things,’ even those that appeared to be a stark tragedy, would ‘work together for good.’ All things.’”
“’I have found it vital to acknowledge the glory of creation aloud, each time I encounter it. Whether it’s a sunset or a dogwood in bloom…Lest I become immune to it.’”
“’I have plenty of faith in the Almighty. It’s people…that’s where my faith faulters. All Mighty means just that. Mighty over all.’”
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review shared here.