Maurice Sendak (1928-2012), who illustrated this book is understandably iconic. And Jean Ritchie (1922-2015) is also an icon. Growing up in a large singing family in the mountains of Perry County, Kentucky, she popularized the dulcimer as a musical instrument and wrote and sang many of the most revered song of her native region. The skill with which she put words together in her songs reverberates throughout this memoir. And it includes the words and music to 42 traditional mountain songs! This is one of the most beloved memoirs in all of Appalachian literature. Although this book is plenty good by itself, an edition with the Sendak illustrations is especially one to cherish.
New York: Geordie Music Publicantions/Oak Publications, a 1980 reprint of a 1955 release. 257 pages with an Index of Songs, illustrated by Maurice Sendak, with the words and music to 42 songs. Trade paperback.