Lift Every Voice and Sing - Hardcover

James Weldon Johnson (1871-1938) was a prolific writer and legendary civil rights activist who produced several novels, a pioneering work of cultural history, the first major anthology of black poetry, and numerous treatises on race relations. He served as U.S. consul to Venezuela and Nicaragua and as secretary of the NAACP.

Ages 4-9. Interpreting the moving anthem "Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing," this picture book offers illustrations inspired by the hymn yet not bound by a literal interpretation of the words. Combining colored pencil, gouache, and watercolor, the impressionistic artwork embodies the spirit of the music and the feelings of those who sing it. A series of free-form images show black people in Africa, in slavery, in modern times, and, ultimately, timeless. These adults and children are not just free in their temporal lives, but in their spirits: there are people enduring darkness and storms, springing from the sea, and soaring through the air. By illustrating not just the words, but also the grace and strength of the music and the emotions that this song stirs in singers and listeners, Gilchrist offers artwork that goes beyond visual representation to make a personal statement, "full of faith . . . full of hope." Music and lyrics are appended on the last double-page spread, followed by the artist's note. Carolyn Phelan