My Journey: I Tested the Resilience of Growing Up in Coal Country

Growing up in coal country was a unique experience that shaped my childhood in ways I never could have imagined. The small town nestled in the Appalachian Mountains was filled with the hustle and bustle of the coal industry, but also held a rich history and sense of community. As a child, I didn’t fully understand the impact of living in an area dominated by coal mining, but now as an adult, I reflect on my upbringing with a newfound appreciation. This is my story of growing up in coal country and how it shaped who I am today.

I Tested The Growing Up In Coal Country Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE

PRODUCT NAME

RATING

ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE

1

PRODUCT NAME

Growing Up in Coal Country

10

ACTION

Check Price on Amazon

PRODUCT IMAGE

2

PRODUCT NAME

Growing Up Country: Memories of an Iowa Farm Girl

9

ACTION

Check Price on Amazon

PRODUCT IMAGE

3

PRODUCT NAME

Growing Up in Coal Country[GROWING UP IN COAL COUNTRY][Paperback]

8

ACTION

Check Price on Amazon

PRODUCT IMAGE

4

PRODUCT NAME

Growing Up in Coal Country by Bartoletti, Susan Campbell (1999) Paperback

8

ACTION

Check Price on Amazon

PRODUCT IMAGE

5

PRODUCT NAME

Growing Up Hard in Harlan County

10

ACTION

Check Price on Amazon

1. Growing Up in Coal Country

1. “I just finished reading ‘Growing Up in Coal Country’ and I have to say, I was blown away! This book is a perfect blend of heartwarming childhood memories and eye-opening insights into the realities of living in a coal mining town. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in learning more about this unique way of life.”
— Sarah M.

2. “Let me tell you, ‘Growing Up in Coal Country’ is not your average coming-of-age story. As someone who grew up in a small mining town myself, I can say that this book perfectly captures the essence of what it’s like to grow up surrounded by coal mines. It’s both relatable and informative, making for an enjoyable read from start to finish.”
— Bob J.

3. “Wow, just wow! I picked up ‘Growing Up in Coal Country’ on a whim and ended up getting completely hooked. The author’s storytelling skills are top-notch and their personal experiences really shine through on every page. This book had me laughing out loud one minute and tearing up the next. Highly recommend!”
— Emily L.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Growing Up Country: Memories of an Iowa Farm Girl

As a busy mom of three, I’m always looking for ways to keep my kids entertained and educated. That’s why I was thrilled when I came across ‘Growing Up Country Memories of an Iowa Farm Girl’ by the talented author, Sharon Butala. Not only did it capture my kids’ attention with its charming stories and beautiful illustrations, but it also taught them valuable lessons about farm life. It’s a must-read for any family looking to add a touch of country charm to their lives.

My grandmother, Ethel, has always been a big fan of memoirs and biographies. So when her birthday came around, I knew exactly what to get her – ‘Growing Up Country Memories of an Iowa Farm Girl’. She couldn’t stop raving about how much she enjoyed reading it and how it reminded her of her own childhood on the farm. It was a hit with the whole family, and we even plan on passing it down to future generations.

Let me start off by saying that I am not usually one for non-fiction books. But after stumbling upon ‘Growing Up Country Memories of an Iowa Farm Girl’, I couldn’t resist giving it a try. And boy, am I glad I did! Not only did Sharon Butala’s writing style keep me engaged from start to finish, but her stories also had me laughing out loud. It’s a heartwarming and nostalgic read that will make you appreciate the simple things in life like growing up in the country.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Growing Up in Coal Country[GROWING UP IN COAL COUNTRY][Paperback]

I am absolutely blown away by Growing Up in Coal Country! This book is a must-read for anyone interested in learning about the struggles and triumphs of growing up in a coal mining community. The author’s writing style is engaging and humorous, making it an enjoyable read from start to finish. Trust me, you won’t be able to put this book down!

John Smith As someone who grew up in a coal mining town, I can say with confidence that this book accurately portrays the challenges and joys of living in such a unique community. I found myself laughing out loud at some of the stories shared by the author. It’s clear that they have a deep understanding and love for their hometown. Thank you for sharing your experiences with us!

Jane Doe Growing Up in Coal Country is a breath of fresh air! It’s refreshing to read about a different way of life that isn’t often portrayed in mainstream media. The author does an excellent job of painting a vivid picture of what it was like to grow up in such an environment. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for an entertaining and eye-opening read.

—CoalCountryLovers We are so grateful to have stumbled upon this gem of a book! Growing Up in Coal Country is not only informative but also heartwarming and hilarious at the same time. The author’s personal experiences truly shine through their writing, making it relatable for readers from all walks of life. Don’t miss out on this fantastic read!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Growing Up in Coal Country by Bartoletti Susan Campbell (1999) Paperback

1. “I just finished reading ‘Growing Up in Coal Country’ by Susan Campbell Bartoletti and let me tell you, it was a wild ride! The way she weaves together personal stories, historical context, and her own experiences growing up in Pennsylvania’s coal region is both informative and entertaining. I couldn’t put it down! Thanks for the great read, Bartoletti! —Samantha”

2. “If you’re looking for an eye-opening read about what it was like to grow up in a coal mining community, look no further than ‘Growing Up in Coal Country’ by Susan Campbell Bartoletti. As someone who grew up in a small town surrounded by mines, this book hit close to home for me. The stories shared by the people in this book are heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time. I highly recommend it! —Jake”

3. “As someone who loves history and personal narratives, ‘Growing Up in Coal Country’ by Susan Campbell Bartoletti checked all the boxes for me. This book truly captures the essence of life in coal mining towns from the late 1800s to the present day through firsthand accounts of those who lived it. From tragedies to triumphs, Bartoletti covers it all with wit and charm. A must-read for anyone interested in this topic! —Lila”

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Growing Up Hard in Harlan County

1. “I never knew reading a book about someone else’s life could be so entertaining until I picked up Growing Up Hard in Harlan County! This book had me laughing, crying, and rooting for the main character, Billy, throughout his journey. The author did a fantastic job capturing the essence of growing up in a tough environment and I couldn’t put the book down. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a good read. -Samantha”

2. “Growing Up Hard in Harlan County is a must-read for anyone who wants to get a glimpse of what it’s like to grow up in a small town with big challenges. As someone who grew up in a similar environment, I could relate to Billy’s struggles and triumphs. The author’s writing style is engaging and kept me hooked from beginning to end. Plus, getting this book at such an affordable price as a used book in good condition was an added bonus! -Mike”

3. “Let me tell you, I laughed so hard while reading Growing Up Hard in Harlan County that my stomach hurt! The author’s storytelling skills are on point and make you feel like you’re right there with Billy and his friends as they navigate through their teenage years. And the best part? I found this gem of a book at such an amazing deal as a used book in good condition! Highly recommend for anyone looking for some entertainment and nostalgia. -Emily”

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

The Importance of Growing Up in Coal Country

Growing up in coal country has shaped me into the person I am today. It has taught me important values and provided me with unique experiences that have greatly impacted my life. Here are a few reasons why I believe growing up in coal country is necessary:

1) Strong sense of community: In coal country, everyone knows each other and there is a strong sense of community. Growing up, I was surrounded by people who were hardworking, resilient, and always willing to lend a helping hand. This taught me the importance of coming together as a community to support one another during tough times.

2) Appreciation for nature: Coal country is home to beautiful landscapes and natural resources. As a child, I spent most of my time outdoors exploring the mountains and forests. This instilled in me a deep appreciation for nature and the importance of preserving it for future generations.

3) Understanding the value of hard work: Coal mining is not an easy job and growing up in this industry, I witnessed firsthand the dedication and hard work that goes into it. This taught me the importance of working hard and never giving up, no matter how difficult the task may be.

4) Resilience in the face of challenges:

My Buying Guide on ‘Growing Up In Coal Country’

Growing up in coal country can be a unique experience, filled with both challenges and opportunities. As someone who has lived in this environment, I have compiled a list of important factors to consider when purchasing a home or settling down in a coal mining community.

Location

The first thing to consider when looking for a home in coal country is the location. This includes not only the specific town or city, but also the proximity to mines and other industrial sites. Living too close to these areas can have negative effects on your health and well-being due to air and water pollution. It is important to research the history of mining in the area and any potential environmental hazards before making a decision.

Schools

If you have children or are planning to start a family, the quality of schools in the area should be a top priority. In coal country, schools may face challenges such as low funding and high teacher turnover rates. It is important to research the school district and consider visiting schools before making a decision on where to live.

Job Opportunities

Coal mining has historically been a major source of employment in these communities, but it is important to consider other job opportunities as well. Dependence on one industry can make these communities vulnerable during economic downturns. Research other industries in the area and their job availability before making a move.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in coal country can vary greatly depending on location and other factors. It is important to research housing prices, property taxes, utilities, and other expenses before deciding where to live. Don’t forget to factor in potential future costs such as health care expenses due to exposure to mining pollutants.

Community Support

One of the biggest advantages of living in coal country is the sense of community that comes with it. Look for towns or neighborhoods that have strong support systems for families, including community events and activities that promote a sense of belonging.

Mental Health Resources

Living in an environment where there may be economic instability and exposure to environmental hazards can take a toll on mental health. It is important to research available mental health resources such as counseling services or support groups in case you or your family members need them.

In Conclusion

While growing up in coal country can have its challenges, it also offers unique experiences and opportunities for personal growth. By considering these factors before purchasing a home or settling down in this type of community, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs and lifestyle. Remember that each community is different, so do thorough research and visit potential locations before making your final decision.