We Shall Overcome
What’s inside...
This book tells the story of the iconic song 'We Shall Overcome,' which became a powerful anthem for the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. The book explores the song's origins, evolution, and impact, and features illustrations and information about the key figures and events involved in its history. The author, Bryan Collier, also discusses the song's continued relevance and significance in contemporary society, highlighting its enduring message of hope, unity, and perseverance in the face of adversity; A celebration of the gospel anthem and Civil Rights protest song 'We Shall Overcome,' masterfully brought to life by Caldecott Honor recipient and a nine-time Coretta Scott King Award winner Bryan Collier.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think 'We Shall Overcome' means in the context of this story?
How do you think the characters felt when they faced challenges?
What would you do if you were in a similar situation as the characters?
Can you think of a time when you overcame something difficult? How did it make you feel?
Why do you think it's important for people to work together to overcome obstacles?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading the book, briefly explain the historical context to set the stage for understanding.
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story and relate it to their own experiences.
Pause during key moments in the book to discuss the characters' decisions and actions.
After reading, ask your child to draw a scene from the book that stood out to them and explain why.
Use praise to reinforce your child's insights and connections made during the discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The story illustrates how characters overcome challenges with perseverance and courage, showcasing their determination to succeed despite obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by not giving up easily when they face difficulties in school or in their personal life, instead persisting and finding ways to overcome their challenges.
Example Lesson: Importance of unity and collaboration
Explanation: The book emphasizes working together and supporting one another in order to achieve common goals, illustrating how collective efforts can lead to success.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of teamwork in accomplishing tasks or solving problems at school or in community activities by collaborating with others.
Example Lesson: Equality and justice
Explanation: The narrative promotes fairness and treating everyone with respect, regardless of their background, fostering a sense of justice among characters.
Real-World Application: Children learn to treat all peers as equals and understand the importance of fairness in their interactions, promoting a just and inclusive environment wherever they are.