Cover Reveal of Hope Rode by Lauren H. Kerstein, presented by The Children’s Book Review.
We’re always thrilled to celebrate remarkable stories like Lauren H. Kerstein’s Hope Rode, the inspiring tale of the Packhorse Librarians who delivered books to Kentucky’s most isolated communities.
This gorgeous picture book honors their strength, courage, and dedication to spreading literacy. The stunning cover, illustrated by Becca Stadtlander, boasts harmonious colors that perfectly capture the spirit of adventure and service that made these traveling librarians a true beacon of hope during challenging times.
Feast your eyes on the cover and then read on to learn more about this story directly from Lauren!
Cover Reveal
Author Interview
Why did you write Hope Rode?
Lauren H. Kerstein (LHK): I was inspired to write Hope Rode after reading The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes. I then read every packhorse librarian book I could get my hands on, whether fiction or nonfiction; adult or children’s. Kim Michele Richardson’s books fueled my inspiration even further. I am thrilled she recently released a book about her beloved, Junia!
Becca Stadtlander is a phenomenal artist. How did you feel when you saw the final cover for the first time?
LHK: Becca is so unbelievably talented. I was thrilled to see the cover for the first time. Her attention to detail and color palette blew me away!
Do you have a favorite illustration from the interior that you can tell us about yet?
LHK: Oh, yes I do! As you’ll see with all of the illustrations, Becca pulls the reader in so much that it feels like you’ve quite literally stepped into the Kentucky landscape. This illustration, though, made me gasp out loud. It is everything I hoped for and everything I didn’t even know to hope for and more. It is stunning!
What are your hopes for the story when it lands in the hands of readers?
LHK: It is my hope (well done on the wordplay) that readers will not only learn about these incredible, brave, and inspirational women, but will also see the ways in which librarians change the world every single day.
About the Book
Hope Rode
Written by Lauren H. Kerstein
Illustrated by Becca Stadtlander
Ages 4-8 | 48 Pages
Publisher: Union Square Kids (2025) | ISBN-13: 978-1454948483
Publisher’s Book Summary: An empowering ode to the brave librarians from Kentucky.
Following the Great Depression, literacy rates in the country had dwindled, and education and opportunities were harder to come by, especially in areas like rural Appalachia. But still, there was a dream: a vision of a nation in which reading was accessible to all—even those in the most remote places.
The Packhorse Library project of the 1930s and 1940s called upon Kentucky women to make that vision a reality and rise to the difficult and demanding job of delivering books on horseback. The Packhorse librarians were brave, steadfast, and resilient. For years, the women endured rough terrain, harsh conditions, and exhaustion. And with each book delivered and reading lesson taught, the librarians ushered in a new era for Kentuckians.
With uplifting prose by Lauren H. Kerstein and lush, hand-painted art from Becca Stadtlander, Hope Rode tells the true story of the strength, courage, and conviction of the Packhorse librarians.
Pre-Order the Book
About the Author
Lauren H. Kerstein is an author and psychotherapist. She is represented by Deborah Warren with East/West Literary Agency. Lauren writes picture books through young adult books. She is a developmental editor, ghost writer, and a co-founder of #ReVISIONweek. Lauren’s books are infused with SEL, heart, and a bit of her Jersey-girl humor. Lauren’s writing goals are simple. Embrace feedback. Work hard. Be passionate. Write courageously. Touch children’s hearts.
For more information, visit laurenkerstein.net.
Discover more books like Hope Rode, by Lauren H. Kerstein, by checking out our reviews and articles tagged with Cover Reveal, History, History Books, Horses, Librarians and Picture Books.
