The Holy Ghost and a Shine of Coal

<p>Peggy Konert has penned a coming-of-age novel revolving around 10-year-old June</p><p>Ellen set in late 1940s Arkansas. The defunct coal mining industry creates the tale's</p><p>backdrop for spunky June Ellen and her painful struggles with the changing social and</p><p>economic milieu post-World War II. Her father has Black Lung Disease. He and Mama</p><p>must fend off the mercenary Mr. Mackey's efforts to take over the Shoal Creek Mine-</p><p>which would bring the entire rural community to its knees. The mine is a paradox</p><p>killing the miners yet providing their livelihood. Konert's novel is rich in period detail</p><p>with hardscrabble folks as varied as the Ouachita hills and hollows. A reading treasure for</p><p>historical fiction bibliophiles.</p>