Una of the hill country 1911

"Una of the Hill Country" by Charles Egbert Craddock is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of rural Tennessee, the book explores the themes of love, ambition, and the clash between tradition and modernity within the mountain communities. The story revolves around Brent Kayle and Valeria Clee, who navigate their dreams and challenges living in a society that grapples with deeply entrenched beliefs and the allure of new opportunities. The narrative opens with a festive barbecue and bran dance, which becomes a catalyst for events that change the characters' lives. Brent's unique talent for ventriloquism unexpectedly captivates the local community, leading him and Valeria to seek a life in the circus after they marry. Valeria, despite her humble beginnings and the weight of family responsibilities, courageously takes on a role as "Una" in the circus, showcasing her beauty and inner strength. As the couple rises in the circus world, Brent's vanity and struggle for recognition seep into their relationship, while Valeria remains grounded by her values and commitment to her family. Ultimately, the story explores their journey through love, personal ambition, and the impact of fame, revealing both the allure and the pitfalls of their newfound life. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Mary Noailles Murfree was an American author of novels and short stories who wrote under the pen name Charles Egbert Craddock. She is considered by many to be Appalachia's first significant female writer and her work a necessity for the study of Appalachian literature, although a number of characters in her work reinforce negative stereotypes about the region. She has been favorably compared to Bret Harte and Sarah Orne Jewett, creating post-Civil War American local-color literature.