Sing, Aretha, Sing!
illustrations by
on Goodreads (148)
What’s inside...
A young Aretha Franklin captivates her community with the song “Respect” during the height of the Civil Rights Movement, in this striking picture book biography that will embolden today’s young readers to sing their own truth. When Aretha Franklin sang, she didn’t just sing…she sparked a movement. As a performer and a civil rights activist, the Queen of Soul used her voice to uplift freedom fighters and the Black community during the height of the 1960s Civil Rights Movement. Her song “Respect” was an anthem of identity, survival, and joy. It gave hope to people trying to make change. And when Aretha sang, the world sang along. With Hanif Abdurraqib’s poetic voice and Ashley Evans’s dynamic illustrations, Sing, Aretha, Sing! demonstrates how one brave voice can give new power to a nation, and how the legacy of Aretha Franklin lives on in a world still fighting for freedom.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think made Aretha Franklin such a powerful singer and person?
How do you think Aretha felt when singing in front of an audience?
Why is it important to share your talents with the world?
How did the people around Aretha support her in her musical journey?
What emotions do you feel when you listen to Aretha Franklin's songs?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own reactions to Aretha Franklin's music to create an open and sharing atmosphere. Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the book and its themes without any fear of judgment. Highlight the struggles and triumphs of Aretha’s life to help your child understand resilience and determination. Connect discussions to the importance of expressing oneself through talents and the arts. Use the book's illustrations to point out emotions and historical contexts that can lead to deeper understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience and Perseverance
Explanation: The book depicts Aretha Franklin’s challenges and how she overcame them with determination. Her journey illustrates the power of perseverance through adversity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own challenges, whether it's difficult homework or learning a new skill, with determination and not give up easily.
Example Lesson: Importance of Self-Expression
Explanation: Aretha Franklin's unique voice and style demonstrate the importance of expressing oneself, showing how her music communicated her personal and cultural identity.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to embrace their individuality and express themselves, whether through art, music, or writing, helping them develop a strong sense of self.
Example Lesson: Influence of Strong Role Models
Explanation: The story showcases the pivotal role that Aretha's family, especially her mother, played in her life, emphasizing the influence of role models.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of having and being strong role models - how guidance and support can shape one's path and confidence.
Example Lesson: Historical Awareness
Explanation: The book provides context to the historical and cultural backdrop of Aretha Franklin's rise, highlighting the societal challenges of her time.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand and appreciate the history and struggles that influence contemporary culture, promoting a broader perspective.