Defining Appalachian Literature
It must:
come from inside Appalachia or from someone rooted in Appalachian culture Smith (2002)
Two qualities that distinguish Appalachian literature from other types of literatures:
Incorporates the mountains
incorporates a sense of place Smith (2002)
Appalachian literature usually falls into 3 categories:
those that cling to old patterns of poverty and reinforce stereotypes
those that express realism and honesty
those that grapple with the two (dispels stereotypes) Herrin (1995)
Look for evidence of stereotyping:
Owens (2002)