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)

An introduction to the life of Marian Anderson, extraordinary singer and civil rights activist, who was the first African American to perform at the Metropolitan Opera, whose life and career encouraged social change.