Bryan, Ashley. 2007. LET IT SHINE: THREE FAVORITE SPIRITUALS. New York: Antheneum Books for Young Children. ISBN 0-689-84732-7This Corretta Scott King Medal Award winner revisits three Spirituals: This Little Light, When the Saints, and In His Hands. Though these Spirituals have been published many times in many formats, this version stands out because of its beautifully rendered illustrations. Artist Ashley Bryan has earned several awards for his extraordinary ability to capture song and stories. The illustrations in LET IT SHINE are construction paper collages which fill the pages. The children in the illustrations are represented in a variety of hues; including magenta, black, green, brown, and yellow. This inclusivity extends to clothing and hair styles as well. Bryan’s attention to detail is evident in the meticulous way in which light is portrayed. From big, bright backgrounds to thin strips of “shine,” the pervasive light seems to represent the enduring hope in the hearts of the African-American slaves credited with creating these beautiful songs. Finally, in an author’s note, Bryan provides readers with a brief history of Spirituals. Though not necessarily an appropriate part of a read-aloud, teachers and caregivers will find it interesting and may choose to summarize the information depending on the listeners’ level.
Recommended for readers ages 4-9 years. For those who want to be able to sing the songs rather than read, sheet music for each song is provided.
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