by Carole Boston Weatherford

Illustrated by Frank Morrison

4 stars

A remarkable exploration of history as told through the modernized lyrics of the popular spiritual, “Standing in the Need of Prayer”. The book works in various events throughout history from the American slave trade to Emancipation to the Civil Rights Movement to the Black Lives Matter movement and many stops in between.

Great emphasis on those who fought against injustices both through intentional actions and just through living their lives and following their passions. Includes references to many figures including Ruby Bridges, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Nat Turner, Duke Ellington, Florence Griffith Joyner, and Colin Kaepernick. It shows contributions to activism, music, and sports.

While some of the events referenced and pictured are traumatic (visuals of the slave trade), I loved the emphasis on the power of people and their continued efforts. The art stye is stunning.

At the back of the book is an Author’s Note that briefly discusses the tradition of spirituals and improvisation as well as short descriptions of the references made in the book.

A great resource to learn from and find inspiration in to continue the work.

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