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Sing It!: A Biography of Pete Seeger

Sing It!: A Biography of Pete Seeger

Published in
2015
4.07
on Goodreads (15)

Description

A tall, skinny man in blue jeans stands on a stage, one hand on his banjo, the other raised to the crowd of 15,000 people who have come to celebrate his ninetieth birthday. "Sing it!" he shouts, and everyone sings. How did a humble, banjo-playing Harvard University dropout become one of the most influential figures of the twentieth century? This is the story of Pete Seegersinger, songwriter, social activist, environmentalistwho filled his toolbox with songs and set out to repair whatever in the world was broken. His story intertwines with a century of American history, and readers will be surprised to discover how many familiar songs, people, and projects somehow connect back to this one individual. What was it like for a city boy like Pete to hope freight trains with Woody Guthrie, the free-spirited composter of "This Land Is Your Land"? "The Lion Sleeps Tonight," a song beloved by people all over the world, might have been lost to history had it not been for Pete Seeger. The Hudson River is cleaner than it used to be; what did Pete do to help that happen? Through learning of his life of activism, readers will become links in the chain, inspired to reflect on their own power to make change.From the Hardcover edition.
Age
8-12
Text complexity
proficient
Length
64 pages

Why to read

  • Gain Insight into a Musical Legend: 'Sing It!: A Biography of Pete Seeger' offers an in-depth look at the life of one of America's most influential folk musicians, providing readers with a detailed account of his artistic journey, activism, and impact on the folk music scene.
  • Understand the Power of Music and Activism: Pete Seeger's story is a testament to how music can be a force for social change. Reading this biography will inspire readers to consider the ways in which art and activism intersect and how they can use their own voices for a cause.
  • Appreciate the Historical Context: The book delves into the historical periods that Seeger lived through, including the Great Depression, World War II, and the Civil Rights Movement, offering readers a richer understanding of the times that shaped his music and ideals.
  • Be Motivated by Seeger's Dedication: Pete Seeger's unwavering commitment to his beliefs, despite facing adversity and blacklisting during the McCarthy era, serves as a powerful example of staying true to one's convictions. His story encourages readers to persevere in the face of challenges.