Can a voice stop the rain?

Can it take you around the world?

Can it change people's minds about justice and equality?

Growing up in Washington, DC, at the turn of the twentieth century, Florence Mills knew that she was blessed with a gift—a sweet, birdlike singing voice that everyone loved. But she also knew firsthand the profound ache of racism. When she moved to New York City, the stages got bigger, the lights grew brighter, and offers that could make her an international star were hers for the taking. Instead, Florence chose shows that helped promote other black performers. And she sang songs that heralded the call for civil rights.

Together Renée Watson's gorgeously evocative prose and Christian Robinson's stunning mixed-media art shine a light on this little-known but much-loved member of the Harlem Renaissance elite—a performer whose story may have faded from the history books, but whose influence resonated long after she sang her last song.

From the dust jacket