As an adult, Judith V. Hensley began to realize the uniqueness of the Appalachian culture and personally valued the humor, imagery, and poetry of the language. A true Appalachian will use a simile, metaphor, or idiom in daily conversation to express the most mundane or common thoughts, spicing up the flow of conversation without planning or forethought. One may hear the older generation using this pattern of speech daily. From this speaking style, Say What You Mean: Mean What You Say was born. Ms. Hensley's first notes about Appalachian language were for an Appalachian Studies class at Cumberland College in Williamsburg, Kentucky in 1974. From there her interest grew. Simply by listening and recording, she attempted to document the sound and flow of speech in a specific section of Appalachia, the values, beliefs, and thought processes expressed in everyday language through a cross section of ages, vocations, gender, ethnicities, and communities. Changes creep into any culture slowly but surely. It was her desire to preserve things that are in place at this point in time before they are "disremembered". "Much like my dear granny, a kind soul who saves every scrap of fabric she ever comes across to make colorful and comforting quilts for her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, Judith Hensley has spent decades tucking away countless snippets of folk speech and uncommon sayings in the Appalachian mountains in drawers, notebooks, and in the back of her mind in hopes of have an opportunity to share them with others. Decades in the making, this collection is colorful and inviting, and tirelessly crafted into a book that should be handed down to future generations. Say What You Mean: Mean What You Say offers a colorful and comforting glimpse into the rich culture of mountain folk in the southeastern United States." - Cassie M. Robinson Pfleger, 2010 Conference Program Chairperson of the Appalachian Studies Association; Dahlonega, Georgia "A delightful read overflowing with the wit and wisdom of mountain lore. Ms. Hensley's intimate understanding of Appalachia along with her deep abiding love of its people, heritage and customs inspires each and every page. Within you will discover a wellspring of uncommon knowledge and you will be wiser of mind and richer in spirit..." - Larry LaFollette, archivist for Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College and President of the Harlan County Historical Society "Judith Hensley's collection of mountain lore and wisdom is illustrative of her keen ear and vigor of mountain culture." - Roy Silver, Ph. D. Professor of Sociology, Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College
Judith Hensley is an educator, speaker, writer, photographer and folklorist. She is a weekly columnist for her local newspaper for the last 20 years, and has written books in several genres, as well as magazine articles. She is the recipient of educational, writing, and photography awards. "I've been writing most of my life, but the projects I love most are those which call me to the task and will not rest until done."
