We Shall Overcome: The Story of a Song

This is a great book for young kids to read. Its about social justice movements and it can start a great topic of conversation about segregation and discrimination which are two major important things that all kids should be made aware about. I think this book would be a very good introduction to that topic.

Summary: We Shall Overcome is a song that has traversed through many cultures and as it has been passed along, additional sections were added to represent the changing times. Throughout the song there are some themes that remain constant: Unity, Love, Freedom and Strength.

Review: This is a beautifully illustrated song that is written and presented in a way that it can be used to teach young learners. This is a book I have used in my class to teach about compassion and empathy during black history month. I use this to start a conversation about what those who were fighting for freedom might feel like and how we would feel if we were in their position.

Almost more of a history book, but it does make it clear that music has power. This anthem was known, and used, around the world, and was sung at Obama's first inauguration. Excellent after-matter, the only thing missing is sheet-music of the song. The notes talk briefly about the evolution of the song in its different forms.

Illustrations appealing and inclusive.

(Remember the good old days when every primary teacher could pick out a tune on the piano, and therefore many children's books had the musical notation included?)

This whimsically written book chronicles the historical trajectory of a song from American enslavement, civil rights, and the 1960s to a part of present-day movements for equality and freedom around the world. Selected Sources. Recording List. Further Readings

This is a picture book plus because it includes a detailed historical timeline, a source list, and resources for further reading or listening.

I could see this title being used as part of a music program; it would introduce students to the idea that there's a story - sometimes historical - behind each song.

This is a good book to share to discuss segregation and discrimination. This book is good for many grade levels. The story has a lot f history in it and tells the stories of many other historical people.

This book really captures the hope that people hang onto that drives the changes societies need.