Parents' Guide to

Let It Shine

By Dawn Friedman, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 4+

Color-burst pictures illuminate gospel songs.

Book Ashley Bryan Picture Book 2007
Let It Shine Poster Image

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What's the Story?

Three African-American spirituals are lovingly illustrated.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
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It's no wonder that this sumptuous book won the Coretta Scott King Award. The gorgeous, colorful illustrations in this picture book swerve, melt, and celebrate the spiritual message in the three gospel songs shared here. They exemplify the hope and encouragement messaged in traditional African-American spirituals.

The text itself is lifted directly from songs that most kids will find familiar, having become part of our American lexicon regardless of religious faith or practice. Whether families are exploring this book because of their own Christian beliefs or looking at it as an important aspect of American history and culture, the book has much to offer.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can sing the songs together (sheet music is included in the back) and also explore the importance of spirituals in African-American history.

Book Details

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