I have not read the book but reading the piece you linked to I would not disagree with any of the statements with the exception of that so many white Southerners took an active role against slavery. I would agree that they were ambivalent but not a bunch of abolisionist. If the author attempts to use Appalachia as being opposed to slavery I would say he is trying to make a leap and confusing their Unionist leanings as anti-slavery.

Respectfully,

Gerald D. Hodge, Jr.
War Between the States Historian
Historian: 39th Georgia Volunteer Infantry Regiment