Catherine Marshall's literary legacy is vast, yet it is her novel Christy that stands out distinctly within the domain of juvenile and young adult literature. This coming-of-age story not only captivates with its narrative but also serves as a window into the cultural tapestry of the Appalachian region, specifically the Tennessee Great Smoky Mountains. Marshall's meticulous research and skillful portrayal of the resilient mountain communities lend authenticity and depth to the novel, making it especially valuable for academic institutions focusing on Appalachian studies. Additionally, for young people in Appalachia, Christy offers an affirming narrative that challenges and enriches the simplistic "hillbilly" stereotype often associated with their origins.

Despite its merits, Christy is not universally embraced within public education systems, primarily due to its pronounced religious themes. However, these elements do not overshadow the novel’s literary and cultural significance, as evidenced by its adaptation into a popular television series during the early 1990s. The show enjoyed several successful seasons before transitioning into syndication in 1995, further cementing the novel's place in popular culture.

A departure from her primary focus on biographical and Christian devotional literature, Christy remains Marshall's sole novel. Earlier, in 1951, she penned A Man Called Peter: The Story of Peter Marshall, chronicling the life of her late husband, a prominent minister and U.S. Senate chaplain until his death in 1949. Marshall's impactful devotional works include God Loves You (1953), To Live Again (1957), Beyond Our Selves (1961), and Something More (1974). Moreover, she diligently edited collections of her husband's sermons, published under the title Mr. Jones, Meet the Master in 1949 and 1950.

The universal themes woven into Christy contribute to its timeless appeal, offering a rich and vivid narrative that endures within young adult literature. Marshall’s work invites readers to explore the interplay between individual growth and cultural identity, rendering Christy an enduring contribution to literary discourse.