Keep on Singing

School Library Journal

Gr 3-5-A simplified introduction to singer Marian Anderson. Livingston briefly covers her subject's childhood and school years, but most of the book concentrates on Anderson's efforts to perform and her struggles on the American stage. Highlighted are her memorable performances at the Lincoln Memorial and at the Met. Words from Anderson's autobiography are used in this rhyming overview presented in the form of a ballad. Soft watercolor illustrations appear on each page. Not a stand-alone biography, but as a beginning resource, and for reluctant readers, the text and pictures make a serviceable first impression.-Beth Tegart, Oneida City Schools, NY

Mary Harris Veeder

Marian Anderson's story is an interesting and intriguing one, but Livingston's biographical ballad sometimes trades detail for rhyme and rhythm. For example, young children may not fully grasp what happens when Anderson decides to apply to music school: "Heard about a music school, / Thought she would apply. / Girl kept helping others / Always passed her by." The large illustrations, often based on photographs, use details sparingly and employ sweeping backgrounds to lend a feeling of significance to a scene. Adults may want to review Livingston's closing biographical notes before reading the book to children, but the ballad itself still catches the inspiring outlines of Anderson's life and makes her story accessible to a young audience.