Yvette Grant

I grew up in Middletown and was born in Hazard, KY, just a few miles from Jackson. There was nothing recognizable about Hillbilly Elegy. The characters were poorly developed and unlikable. The people I know from Appalachia are loving, hard working, complex individuals. These people populated most of Ohio and the Midwest. Their honor, ethics and morality are the backbone of the Midwest now. My family was poor, but no one stole, sold drugs or themselves to get by. My parents came to Middletown to find work and give us a better life. We are so greatful for every day we had with them and their families.