Stories from Appalachia

Welcome to JohnChaneyAuthor, where you'll discover real and fictional stories that challenge stereotypes and reveal the depth of Appalachia. Join me on this journey as we explore the heart of Eastern Kentucky through compelling narratives and authentic voices.

BIG MABEL isn’t just a mule—she’s a legend born in the depths of Kentucky coal country, where the air is thick with coal dust and stories echo through the mountains like ghost songs. In this sweeping Appalachian tale, Mabel leads a crew of unlikely heroes—Clarence the high-strung canary, Poncho the theatrical pony, and Shep the loyal shepherd dog—through the perilous underworld of mine shafts, mudslides, and moonlit ridgelines. But Mabel’s story doesn’t stop with one act of courage. Whispers of her bravery stretch far beyond the tipple. As disasters unfold and dangers rise, tales of Mabel’s strength and stubborn wisdom become the stu of coal camp reside lore—told in hushed tones by lantern light. Filled with rich mountain folklore, dry mule wit, and the enduring spirit of Appalachia, Big Mabel is more than an adventure—it’s a myth in the making. Alongside her chosen family, Mabel not only overcomes darkness but carries forward the hopes of those who work and live deep in the hollers. Perfect for readers who love a good yarn, Big Mabel is where legend meets loyalty, and where one mule proves that sometimes, heroes come with hooves.

Where you can find Big Mabel!

Behind the Counter is a tender, true-to-life memoir that captures the heart of small-town America through the eyes of a country pharmacist. With warmth, humor, and deep compassion, John Chaney invites readers into a life spent serving others—one prescription, one handshake, and one story at a time. From his earliest days learning the ropes in a dusty drugstore to the long nights balancing family life with patient care, Chaney shares the quiet triumphs and hidden heartbreaks of a profession often overlooked. In these pages, you'll meet unforgettable characters—neighbors, friends, and even a few scoundrels—who brought laughter, lessons, and purpose to his life behind the counter. Set against the backdrop of the Appalachian foothills, this memoir is more than a career retrospective. It’s a love letter to community, to service, and to the enduring spirit of those who show up—day after day—because they care. Behind the Counter is a story for anyone who believes in the power of small acts, the strength of rural roots, and the healing that comes not just from medicine, but from kindness.

Where you can find Behind The Counter!