Abigail launches at the Public Library Association Conference in Minneapolis as the debut title from Sound Archive Books—a new publishing imprint connecting music, place, and memory.
It offers a clear example of how books can extend the life of music—supporting working musicians, engaging readers, and creating meaningful cultural connections across communities and institutions.
$40 Hardcover
Chatham Rabbits’ Sarah McCombie is a songwriter, a storyteller — and now, a published author. Her illustrated children’s book, Abigail and the Journey of a Pack Horse Librarian, illustrated by Kelley Wills, brings an unsung piece of American history to life through the band’s beloved song Abigail. Don’t miss the band performing live at PLA to celebrate:
- Chatham Rabbits at the Ingram Library booth April 1 | 4:30 PM
- Chatham Rabbits at the Ingram VIP Party April 2 | 6:00 PM
The song that inspired the book.
Watch Chatham Rabbits perform Abigail live.
About the book
This is a song about a girl and her horse.
With vivid imagery and stunning hand-painted illustrations, Sarah McCombie and Kelley Wills pay tribute to the Kentucky Pack Horse Librarians of the Great Depression—a revolutionary federal works program that employed citizens, encouraged literacy, promoted animal welfare, and fostered community.
Written first as a song by the band Chatham Rabbits, the 36 pages of paintings make Abigail come alive for readers of all ages. The backmatter is an educator’s guide, brimming with more engaging stories, chord charts for the music, and lesson material that takes Abigail beyond the page.
Author Bio: Sarah McCombie is half of the beloved North Carolina Americana band, Chatham Rabbits. Together with her husband Austin, she travels the country playing the banjo, telling stories, and meeting folks at the merch table. Prior to being a full-time musician, Sarah was a K-8 music teacher. She loves to sing and ride her horses, sometimes both at the same time.
Illustrator Bio: Kelley Wills is a freelance illustrator, working out of her home studio and sometimes gardening in Eugene, OR. Her work is centered around natural elements that celebrate the magic of the everyday.