Review: "Coal River" by Ellen Marie Wiseman

This is a dark story involving the coal mining industry during the early 1900’s. It brings forth all the dangers and perils to not only the adult men who went into the mines but also the young children who were required to work to feed the family. Emma Malloy is forced to return to Coal River to her aunt and uncle after the tragic death of her parents. This is her first trip back in nine years, since the tragic death of her eight year old brother by drowning. Immediately upon her arrival, she is treated like hired help. Her relatives live a life of luxury while the men and children struggle to survive. Through some uncanny meetings with a boy injured in the mines, she vows to help the children’s plight.

The plot of this tale is intricate with surprising twists and turns. The ending is an unexpected bombshell that is as astonishing as it is believable. Emma’s character is well thought out and developed. You can feel her passion and despair as she works single handedly to right the wrongs suffered by the children. You are on the edge of your seat biting your nails hoping she succeeds.

I would recommend this book to anyone who has any interest in the coal mining era in our history. Although the story is bleak, coal mining was and still is an important part of our heritage and should not be forgotten. Once you start this account, you will not want to put it down until the last page is turned.