A picture book biography of African American singer Marian Anderson shines—literally. Pam Munoz Ryan’s captivating narrative is accompanied by Brian Selznick’s dramatic, sepia-toned images in which a source of light illuminates Marian on each and every two-page spread. Ryan writes about Anderson’s stunning voice earning her attention from childhood, and directly addresses the discrimination that made it difficult for Anderson to get formal lessons, and impossible for her to pursue a career in the United States until she had already made a name for herself overseas. Even then, she was unable to sing in Constitution Hall, a decision that led to Eleanor Roosevelt inviting Marian to sing at the Lincoln Memorial. That concert became one of Anderson’s most famous achievements, but it was far from her only one as readers of this appealing volume will discover. An author’s note provides extensive additional information about Anderson. (Ages 6-9)

A harmonious introduction to one of our country's most important singers and role models--as envisioned by Newbery Honoree Pam Muñoz Ryan and Caldecott Medalist Brian Selznick.

Marian Anderson is best known for her historic concert at the Lincoln Memorial in 1939, which drew an integrated crowd of 75,000 people in pre-Civil Rights America. While this momentous event showcased the uniqueness of her voice, the strength of her character, and the struggles of the times in which she lived, it is only part of her story. Like the operatic arias Marian would come to sing, Ryan's text is as moving as a libretto, and Selznick's pictures as exquisitely detailed and elaborately designed as a stage set. What emerges most profoundly from their shared vision is a role model of courage.