This KET production features discussions by a panel of readers of books written by Kentucky authors. Selections include fiction, nonfiction, poetry, history, and biography. Though the focus is on contemporary works, several Kentucky classics also have been featured since the series debuted in January 1999.
In addition to introducing a wide range of Kentucky books and authors, the bookclub@ket programs can serve as examples of how to think and talk about literature. While some of the featured books are appropriate for teaching in high school classrooms, others contain adult language and subject matter.
Grade Levels: 9-12
Resource Type: Videos
The Memory of Old Jack
Host Bill Goodman and a panel of readers discuss Wendell Berry’s inspiring chronicle of Jack Beechum—a man who has spent a lifetime close to the land. A 1999 KET production.
The Secrets of a Fire King
Host Bill Goodman and a panel of readers discuss Lexington author Kim Edwards’ collection of short stories. A KET production.
Passing for Black
Host Bill Goodman and a panel of readers discuss Louisville author Wade Hall’s biography of former state legislator Mae Street Kidd, told mostly in her own words. A 1999 KET production.
Storming Heaven
Host Bill Goodman and a panel of readers discuss Denise Giardina’s historical novel about labor struggles in the coal fields. A 1999 KET production.
The Natural Man
Host Bill Goodman and a panel of readers discuss author Ed McClanahan’s comic coming-of-age novel set in a small Kentucky town. A 1999 KET production.
Scissors, Paper, Rock
Host Bill Goodman and a panel of readers discuss Fenton Johnson’s novel, which explores the loving ties and hidden fault lines within an extended Kentucky family. A KET production.
Come and Go, Molly Snow
Host Bill Goodman and a panel of readers discuss Mary Ann Taylor-Hall’s novel Come and Go, Molly Snow, about the struggles of a female musician trying to make it in a bluegrass band while coping with the tragic loss of her daughter. A 1999 KET production.
Shuck Beans, Stack Cakes, and Honest Fried Chicken
Host Bill Goodman and a panel of readers discuss Shuck Beans, Stack Cakes, and Honest Fried Chicken, a collection of recipes and anecdotes by food writer Ronni Lundy. A 1999 KET production.
Kinfolks
Host Bill Goodman and a panel of readers discuss Gurney Norman’s Kinfolks, a collection of stories about an extended Eastern Kentucky family. A 2000 KET production.
Icy Sparks
Host Bill Goodman and a panel of readers discuss Gwyn Hyman Rubio’s novel Icy Sparks, the story of a young girl with Tourette syndrome growing up in Appalachia. A 2000 KET production.
Sorrowful Mysteries and Other Stories
Host Bill Goodman and a panel of readers discuss Frankfort native Normandi Ellis’ book of short stories. A 2000 KET production.
Lincoln of Kentucky
Host Bill Goodman and a panel of readers discuss Kentucky historian Lowell Harrison’s book on Abraham Lincoln’s Kentucky connections. A 2001 KET production.
Creeker: A Woman's Journey
Host Bill Goodman and a panel of readers discuss Linda Scott DeRosier’s Creeker: A Woman’s Journey, a humorous and poignant memoir of an educated and cultured woman who came of age in Appalachia. A 2001 KET production.
The Bean Trees
Host Bill Goodman and a panel of readers discuss Barbara Kingsolver’s first novel, the story of a young Kentucky woman who grows up as she moves west and meets many unexpected challenges. A 2001 KET production.