In this harmonious introduction to the life of one of our country's greatest singers, feelings accompany the facts as a piano accompanies a voice.

Marian Anderson is best known for her historic concert on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1939, which drew an integrated crowd of 75,000 people in pre-Civil Rights America.  While this momentous event showcased the uniqueness of Marian's voice, the strength of her character, and the struggles of the times in which she lived, it is only part of her story.

Like the operatic arias Marian would come to sing, Pam Munoz Ryan's text is as moving as a libretto, and Caldecott Honor medalist Brian Selznick's pictures are as exquisitely detailed and elaborately designed as a stage set.  What emerges most profoundly from their shared vision is a role model of courage, for even in the face of enormous obstacles, Marian maintained her grace and dignity, and fulfilled her dreams.

From the dust jacket