Faith and Meaning in the Southern Uplands
Jones, retired director of the Appalachian Center at Berea College, brings years of research and experience to this study of the Uplands religion, offering primarily quotes, interviews, and sermons by local people collected over a 30-year period. He presents the mountain people's religious ideas on everything from God to the human condition in their own words. Jones, whose own roots are in Appalachia, takes issue with scholars and missionaries who misunderstand Upland people and their beliefs. Though he is not blind to its problems, Jones feels the Upland religion has its own life-affirming elements that should not be ignored. His comments and conclusions help bring the reader an appreciation for this obscure area. Of special interest is his chapter on Upland hymnody and its vivid imagery. An excellent book by an expert insider; highly recommended for academic and public libraries.AC. Robert Nixon, M.L.S., Lafayette, INCopyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.