Why Alternative Narratives Matter

J.D. Vance's Hillbilly Elegy became a national bestseller, yet it faced significant criticism from Appalachian scholars and residents for presenting a narrow, stereotypical view of the region. Critics argue it oversimplifies complex issues, revives a discredited "culture of poverty" narrative, erases the region's diversity, and ignores systemic historical factors like corporate exploitation. This interactive guide explores these critiques and introduces a curated bookshelf of non-fiction and fiction that offers a richer, more authentic understanding of Central and Southern Appalachia. Use the navigation to explore the primary critiques and discover the works that provide a necessary corrective.