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Download Sing a Song book PDF Free by Kelly Starling Lyons

Discover the profound story behind a song that became an anthem of hope and resilience for generations of Black families. "Sing a Song: How 'Lift Every Voice and Sing' Inspired Generations" by Kelly Starling Lyons is a moving tribute to the power of music and the endurance of the human spirit. This beautifully illustrated picture book traces the history of "Lift Every Voice and Sing," a song that has been a source of inspiration and solace through decades of struggle and triumph.

Through the eyes of one family, readers witness the song's journey from its creation in 1900 to its significant role during the Civil Rights Movement and its continued importance in contemporary celebrations. The narrative elegantly weaves the lyrics of the song into the story, connecting historical events and cultural shifts to the powerful words that have uplifted so many. It is a heartfelt exploration of faith, brilliance, resistance, and resilience that will resonate with readers of all ages.

About the Author Kelly Starling Lyons

Kelly Starling Lyons is an award-winning author of more than thirty books for young readers, spanning picture books, chapter books, and easy readers. A founding member of The Brown Bookshelf, she is a dedicated advocate for raising awareness of Black creators in children's literature. Lyons' work often centers on Black heroes and celebrates family, friendship, and heritage, with the mission of helping all children see the storyteller within themselves.

Sing a Song Summary PDF

"Sing a Song" tells the inspiring story of "Lift Every Voice and Sing," a hymn that has become widely known as the Black National Anthem. The book begins with the song's creation in 1900 by brothers James Weldon Johnson and J. Rosamond Johnson in Jacksonville, Florida. James, the principal of a segregated all-Black school, wrote the lyrics for his students to sing at a celebration of Abraham Lincoln's birthday. From this humble beginning, the song was passed down through generations, providing a source of strength and hope.

The narrative follows a fictional family through five generations, showing how the song becomes a cherished tradition. It is sung during significant moments in African American history, such as the Great Migration, the Civil Rights Movement, and at family gatherings and college graduations. The book illustrates the song's power to unify and uplift, serving as a reminder of the faith and hope that have sustained the Black community through challenging times. Ultimately, "Sing a Song" is a celebration of a powerful piece of music and its enduring legacy as a symbol of perseverance and pride.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sing a Song

1. What is the book "Sing a Song" about?

   "Sing a Song" by Kelly Starling Lyons is a children's picture book that tells the story of the hymn "Lift Every Voice and Sing," also known as the Black National Anthem. It follows the song's journey through five generations of a single family, highlighting its significance during important moments in African American history.

2. Who wrote the song "Lift Every Voice and Sing"?

   The lyrics to "Lift Every Voice and Sing" were written in 1900 by James Weldon Johnson, who was a principal at a segregated school in Jacksonville, Florida. His brother, John Rosamond Johnson, composed the music for the hymn.

3. Why is "Lift Every Voice and Sing" referred to as the Black National Anthem?

   In 1919, the NAACP adopted "Lift Every Voice and Sing" as its official song and began promoting it as the "Negro National Anthem" due to its powerful message of liberation and affirmation for African American people. The song was a rallying cry during the Civil Rights Movement and continues to be a significant cultural and historical symbol.

4. What is the main theme of "Sing a Song"?

   The main themes of "Sing a Song" are hope, resilience, the importance of family and heritage, and the power of music to inspire and unite people. The book celebrates the enduring spirit of the African American community and the song that has provided strength through generations of struggle and progress.

5. Who is the author, Kelly Starling Lyons?

   Kelly Starling Lyons is a celebrated children's book author with over thirty published titles. She is known for writing stories that focus on African American history and culture, featuring Black characters and celebrating family and heritage. Lyons is also a co-founder of "The Brown Bookshelf," an initiative that promotes awareness of Black authors and illustrators of children's books.