"The Voice that Challenged a Nation" by Russel Freedman

Bibliography

Freedman, Russel. (2004). “The Voice that Challenged aNation: Marian Anderson and the Struggle for Equal Rights.” New York, NY: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN: 0-618-15976-2

Summary

This book tells the story of Marian Anderson, a famous vocalist, who had to deal with overcoming racism and criticism while “pursuing her art in the context of the social and political climate of the” 30s and 40s.

Analysis

                One of the most striking features of this book is the photographs of Marian Anderson and the people in her life. They lend a familiarity to the reading that makes the reader feel more involved in the story. They also show irrefutable evidence of the segregation that plagued the nation at the time. There are signs for “colored” balconies, waiting rooms, train cars and cab stations. As somebody who has only heard of signs like that, I find it bewildering that people would be so callous. Regardless of the racism, however, Anderson continued following her heart and kept singing, even when she was told she wasn’t allowed to multiple times. She toured and sang to people all over the country but was not able to get a hotel or even ride in a comfortable train car. Many theaters would not allow her to even step food inside, much less perform. Often her shows were only minimally attended because of the color of her skin and she still continued to perform.

                Her tenacity and will to overcome the negativity is great example of what humans are capable of if they put their mind to a task. It also serves as a great reminder of what our society was and could become again if we are not careful. This book would be a great accompaniment to a unit on the Civil Rights movement or as a study of famous black people during Black History Month.

                I am typically not a fan of biographies, auto or otherwise, but this book actually drew me in. I became concerned for Anderson and proud of her when she finally broke through the wall and found success with a multiracial audience.

Awards

John Newberry Medal 2005

Sibert Medal 2005