Sing a Song: How "Lift Every Voice and Sing" Inspired Generations

by Kelly Starling Lyons, Keith Mallett (Illustrator)

Just in time for the 120th anniversary of the song "Lift Every Voice and Sing"--this stirring book celebrates the Black National Anthem and how it inspired five generations of a family.

Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us.
Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us.

In 1900, in Jacksonville, Florida, two brothers, one of them the principal of a segregated, all-black school, wrote the song "Lift Every Voice and Sing" so his students could sing it for a tribute to Abraham Lincoln's birthday. From that moment on, the song has provided inspiration and solace for generations of Black families. Mothers and fathers passed it on to their children who sang it to their children and grandchildren. It has been sung during major moments of the Civil Rights Movement and at family gatherings and college graduations.
Inspired by this song's enduring significance, Kelly Starling Lyons and Keith Mallett tell a story about the generations of families who gained hope and strength from the song's inspiring words.

Genres: Picture Books, Music, History, African American, Childrens, Family, Historical

32 pages, Hardcover

First published August 6, 2019

About the author

Kelly Starling Lyons is an award-winning author whose 17 titles for children span easy readers, picture books, chapter books, fiction, nonfiction, and series. For more than a decade, Lyons has been creating inspiring books that center Black heroes, celebrate family, friendship and heritage and show all children the storyteller they hold inside. Her acclaimed titles include Going Down Home with Daddy, Sing a Song: How Lift Every Voice & Sing Inspired Generations, Dream Builder: The Story of Architect Philip Freelon, Tiara's Hat Parade and the Jada Jones chapter book series. Her new easy reader series with illustrator Nina Mata, Ty's Travels, debuts September 1. The first book, All Aboard, earned a starred Kirkus review.

Lyons counts Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, Best of the Year and state award lists, Junior Library Guild selections, a Caldecott Honor and a Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor among the accolades her books have received. Two of her books, Hope's Gift and Going Down Home with Daddy, have represented the states of North Carolina and Georgia, respectively, at the National Book Festival's Parade of the States.

Lyons is a founding member of The Brown Bookshelf, a team dedicated to raising awareness of Black children's book creators, a Raleigh-Durham co-ambassador for The Authors Guild, and a teaching artist who visits schools, libraries, conferences and festivals nationwide. She lives in North Carolina with her husband and children where she facilitates a book club for boys that salutes literary treasures from Black authors and illustrators of today and the past. Learn more at www.kellystarlinglyons.com.

Reviews

[ij · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great illustrations!!!

[Abigail · Rating 4 out of 5]

Author Kelly Starling Lyons and illustrator Keith Mallett join forces in this beautiful picture-book tribute to that classic song, "Lift Every Voice and Sing," originally written and composed by African-American brothers James Weldon Johnson and R. Rosamond Johnson as a hymn for Abraham Lincoln's birthday. First performed on February 12, 1900, by a choir of five hundred African-American students - pupils at James Weldon Johnson's all-black Stanton School in Jacksonville, Florida - the song would go on to become the unofficial "Negro National Anthem," adopted by the NAACP (The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People), and has remained a deeply meaningful work of music for the African-American community, over the course of many generations. The narrative here follows five generations of a single family, as they learn and sing the song, while events in America move on. Whether it be the tragedy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s assassination, or the hope implicit in the opening of The National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., the generations of this family respond with the at times poignant, at times celebratory words of this classic song...

Having always loved the song mentioned in the title, I picked up Sing a Song: How "Lift Every Voice and Sing" Inspired Generations with a sense of anticipation, one made all the keener by the beauty of the cover art. That said, I wasn't expecting to be quite as moved as I was by Lyons' narrative, which had me choking up on more than one occasion. A tribute to the hardships and injustice endured by the African-American community, and a celebration of the strength, love and faith that allowed them, not just to survive, but to triumph, this is a lovely book. It examines a non-fiction topic - the influence of a beautiful and deeply meaningful song, and the way in which it reflects American history - through a fictional lens, showing through its tale of one family over the generations, the way in which artistic expression can reflect and strengthen the human spirit. The artwork from Kaith Mallett is lovely, colorful and full of light, and capturing the feeling of each generation. Although no musical notation is included, the full text of the song appears on the front and rear end-papers, and a brief author's afterword gives more information about the history of the song. A wonderful book, one I would highly recommend to those seeking children's stories about this song in particular, about the role of music in human history in general, or about the struggles and triumphs of the African-American experience.

[Donalyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I hope the final book includes the complete lyrics for “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” so families and classes can learn and sing them together.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely with its intergenerational theme, ending with the National Museum of African-American History. I hope this book is on sale in the gift shop. It is a walk through history in one family line.

[Gwen Humphries · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of the Negro National Anthem: Lift Every Voice and Sing". It is beautifully illustrated by Keith Mallett. This is a story of an inspirational song and its impact on five generations of an African American family. Wonderful read to start the year.

[Mary Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Lift Every Voice and Sing" is traced from its writing to the present day through generations of African American families, and important periods in American history.

[Stephanie Bange · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspired by this song often referred to as a "Black National Anthem", Starling Lyons infuses her family's history to create this story of a rich heritage.

This is a story of passing this particular song, "Lift Every Voice and Sing" orally through five generations to today.

Beginning with the text on the front and back endsheets, this is one beautiful package! There is a musical quality to the poetic text that makes this a joy to read aloud. Keith Mallett's freehand illustrations were digitally painted. They are stunning and the perfect pairing with the text. An Author's Note in back gives more background about the song. For more, watch this feature story from "CBS Sunday Morning" about it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EDrGp...
Be sure to enjoy the song performed by the Stanford Talisman Alumni Virtual Choir: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o8pGp...

This book is one to share and enjoy all year long! It would be an excellent exemplar for teaching students writing family histories.

Highly Recommended for PreS-grade 5.

[Cindy Mitchell *Kiss the Book* · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sing a Song : How "Lift Every Voice and Sing" Inspired Generations by Kelly Starling Lyons illustrated by Keith Mallett PICTURE BOOK Nancy Paulsen Books Penguin, 2019. $18. 9780525516095

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3), EL - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

The story of the Black National Anthem "Lift Every Voice and Sing" told in the effect it had on one particular family, from 1900 to the present day.

I loved so many things about this book. Keith Mallett's beautiful illustrations, the end papers with the song lyrics (all the verses) the author's note - - but most of all I so loved the family connections - the love of the song passed from parent to child, sung at family reunions and holding a special place in their hearts. I quickly found a recording and listened while I re-read. Definitely buying for my collection.

Lisa Librarian
https://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com/20...

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's rare that a picture book gives me goosebumps, but this one did.
Surely this will receive some Coretta Scott King award love?!?

I didn't know the history behind "Lift Every Voice and Sing," but I loved how its history is told through the eyes of one African-American family who started singing it in Florida and how each generation learned the song and sang it at important events and times of American history, ending at the opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture in 2016 with President Obama.

Good stuff. Perfect purchase for all grade schools and public libraries. And don't just read it in February, people. Sure, it can be read at Lincoln's birthday, but MLK Jr was born in January and was killed in April. The museum opened in September. And this is a perfect read anytime a discussion about social justice is needed with the kiddos.

[Craig Wiesner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Known as the Black National Anthem, this song was written as a tribute to Abraham Lincoln and sung by a 500 child choir in 1900. For generations it has been a source of inspiration, hope, and courage not just for African-Americans, but for all people, keeping the faith despite the difficult past and holding onto hope for our present and future. This beautiful picture book takes us all on the journey from the song's creation through the day when the National Museum of African American History was opened through right now, this very moment, when the song is as important and stirring as ever.

Wonderful illustrations carry us on the song and a people's journey.

Having sung this in our church many times, I can attest to the power of the words and music. Having now read the book, I can tell you that the story is equally inspiring.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Sing when you score a victory. Sing when tough times get you down. Sing and think of all the people who sang before you, who carried on and pushed forward even when everything was against them.”

The song Lift Every Voice and Sing has been passed down from generation to generation because of its importance to the Black community. It was written by James Weldon Johnson (a principal of a segregated school) and his brother J. Rosamond Johnson to celebrate Abraham Lincoln’s birthday. First sung on February 12, 1900, this song became the official song of the NAACP.

A moving story with beautiful illustrations.

https://youtu.be/wp3akp5Yv70 - Here’s a version of the song song by Melba Moore.

[Alicia · Rating 3 out of 5]

The only thing missing from the book is a page at the back before the author's note with the entire song on a page. Yes, the song is written in italics into the story itself-- woven in-- but I want to see the entire song on the page.

Knowing a bit about the song only because each year at our opening Convocation celebration in my school district, this song is sung, it was a lovely story that shows how integral the song was to each generation for various reasons-- whether it be inspiring, uplifting, connection, etc.

And the illustrations compliment the storytelling well including the cover art.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story of the Black National Anthem "Lift Every Voice and Sing" told in the effect it had on one particular family, from 1900 to the present day.

I loved so many things about this book. Keith Mallett's beautiful illustrations, the end papers with the song lyrics (all the verses) the author's note - - but most of all I so loved the family connections - the love of the song passed from parent to child, sung at family reunions and holding a special place in their hearts. I quickly found a recording and listened while I re-read. Definitely buying for my collection.

For this and more of my reviews, visit http://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com . CHECK IT OUT!

[Kelsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Age: K-2nd
Identity, illustrator & author: African American
Music: Song

First performed in 1900, "Lift Every Voice and Sing" is carried across generations in this moving portrayal of one song's inspirational influence in the African American community. Lyons ability to weave together so many stories in one cohesive unit is truly exemplary. Furthermore, to end on the opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture is such a beautiful way to show the continuation of this profound song.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is part of my education this summer. I didn't know of this song prior to reading the book, and now today, on Juneteenth, it is part of the Google doodle. I am enlightened and informed. This book will be a read-a-loud this year in my classroom to inform others of the Black National Anthem. "Lift Every Voice and Sing" was first sung on February 12, 1900 to commemorate Lincoln's birthday. It has been handed down generation to generation. Today in 2020, it has more power than ever. This book tells of its incarnation to the opening of the African American Museum in Washington D.C.

[Esutterlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!
Through the years, joyful, exuberant, strengthening, blessing - this book is a vibrant Black National Anthem tribute. Author Kelly Lyons retells the song's impact as it is passed from generation to generation. As the story is brought to a close in a child's experience at the opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the author speaks to readers, encouraging them to "Keep on keeping on" and to pass on this legacy.

[Anthony · Rating 5 out of 5]

The history behind the hymn written by two brothers, James Weldon Johnson, and John Rosamond Johnson for the celebration of Abraham Lincoln's birthday, and how it went on to become known over the years as the Black National Anthem. The song has become a symbol of faith, brilliance, resistance, and resilience by the many generations that has sung it, and hope for the future generations who will continue to sing it.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I heard this song for the first time at the annual Correta Scott King breakfast held during the 2015 ALA conference. Everyone knew the lyrics, and for those who didn't, they were included in the program. The strength and unity of the voices was amazing! I am thrilled to have the opportunity to learn the history and importance of this song. this belongs in every library, and if possible, every home.

[Brandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing story of the song that was adopted as the Black National Anthem. I first heard it sung by Beyoncé but I loved hearing the history behind it. The illustrations were AMAZING! I also liked the mention of The National Museum of the African American which I’d love to visit. Definitely a great companion when studying American symbols and culture, and the national anthem.

[Katie Merkel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has beautiful illustrations and easy to understand, emotion evoking prose that ties each generation together through the song. It's an age appropriate way to introduce this part of history to young children. I would recommend this book for children between the ages of four and seven.

[Kathy Iwanicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful story that shows the power of song to inspire a generation. A must read aloud.

[Angie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely beautiful book! Brought tears to my eyes.

[Sally · Rating 4 out of 5]

A book every library should have.

Tells the story behind the creation of "Life Every Voice and Sing"
It was written by James Weldon Johnson and J. Rosamond Johnson in Jacksonville Florida.
It was written for a celebration of President Abraham Lincoln's birthday.

The book goes on to share how the song. the anthem was passed on through generations, from parents to child, and on and on.
History is depicted in snippets and illustrations, The line, "Then can the day that broke the nation's heart." poignantly addresses the feelings of learning the news Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was shot.

The song was/is sung at protests for equal rights, family reunions. college graduations, rallies to stand up against racism. It was sung on Sept. 24, 2016 at the opening of The National Museum of African American History and Culture - President Obama and the First Lady rang the freedom bell.

The author's note tells how the song "took on a life of its own;" it became the official song of the NAACP. She goes on to add "Today, "Lift Every Voice and Sing" is a symbol of faith, brilliance, resistance, and resilience."

I feel the history of this anthem should be shared in schools (not just in February), and sung often.

[Jordan Sigler · Rating 3 out of 5]

This historical book is celebrating the Black National anthem and how it inspired five generations of a family! “In 1900, in Jacksonville, Florida, two brothers, one of them the principal of a segregated, all-black school, wrote the song "Lift Every Voice and Sing" so his students could sing it for a tribute to Abraham Lincoln's birthday.” This song has been sung in many of history’s important moments like the Civil War to families passing down generation to generation. This book goes through how this one song has impacted so many people’s lives. I personally love this book with how even just one small song can make a huge impact on the world and for so many people’s lives. The illustrations in the book are just breathtaking and really hit your heart strings. This is not only a great way to learn about history but also learn as a family and sing a song together!

[Abby Johnson]

A beautiful book about the power of a song, often referred to as the Black national anthem, this book is also about the power of tradition and how culture gets passed down from generation to generation. Rich paintings illustrate generations of an African American family singing the song, passing down their traditions, and finding different occasions (graduations, family reunions, etc.) to give this song more layers of meaning. Perfect for discussing the power of the arts, oral traditions, American traditions, and/or African American history.

[Jacquelyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story is about African American history of a song in America. The song is about fighting the oppressions of African Americans. The song also is a tribute to the major events during the Civil Rights Movement. Common themes throughout this book are faith and hope. I thought that this was an amazing book that shines some light on Civil rights issues in the United States. I also thought that the pictures were enjoyable to look at. I would say that this book would be well suited for grades between 2nd to 4th grade.

[Carrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Genre: Historical Fiction
Grade: K-4

I love the message and themes of this book. It was well written and so creative to follow the song throughout a family's history and through different significant historic events. The author's message at the end of the book really speaks to what she was able to accomplish by creating a book that shows how the anthem has given people the strength that people need in the middle of discrimination and challenges. I also love how it continues to show how the song can still be a source of strength today.

[Ryann Norris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Genre: Biographical Nonfiction
Grade:1-3
I love the illustrations in this book along with how it shares the story of how a generational song developed. This story would be a good connection to African American Heritage. I love how each page has few words and large illustrations which would make it a great read aloud. With few words on the pages the author was still able to get a beautiful message across to the readers

[Jessica Tonkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Historical Fiction, Kindergarten-3rd grade

This was a book about a little girl who had learned a song from her principal. He'd wrote it to honor Abraham Lincoln. "Lift Every Voice and Sing" was the title. She sang this song throughout her life and taught it to her students, and her children. They passed it on and on throughout the generations. This is a great book for children that teaches about the fight for equality during the civil rights movement.

[Andrea Brinkley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was intergenerational and followed the creation of the Black national anthem lift every voice up until it’s singing at Obama‘s inauguration. There are so many ways this book could be used to teach history in addition to teaching the history of this song. It’s also a great way to introduce the black national anthem to students who may not be familiar with it. also, I used my voice text for this post and it didn’t capitalize things appropriately. My apologies.