She Come by It Natural: Dolly Parton and the Women Who Lived Her Songs

"Growing up amid Kansas wheat fields and airplane factories, Sarah Smarsh witnessed firsthand the particular strengths and vulnerabilities of females in working poverty. Now, Smarsh reveals the overlooked contributions to social progress by such women -- as exemplified by the beloved icon Dolly Parton. She Come By It Natural, originally published as a four-part series for the roots-music journal No Depression, explores the intersection of gender, class, and culture through Parton's trailblazing life and songs. Infused with Smarsh's trademark intelligence and humanity, this insightful examination is a tribute to Dolly Parton and the organic feminism she embodies." --