A Song So Black, So Proud!
A Song So Black, So Proud!
By R.J. Owens and Illustrated by Keisha Okafor
Hardcover
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Written on a napkin and released just months after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the song "Say It Loud (I'm Black and I'm Proud)" became an anthem and rallying cry for the civil rights movement, as well as a celebration of Black culture and community. The song was penned in 1968 by singer James Brown in response to the rising racial tensions throughout the United States. Now, in first-person lyrical text, the iconic song speaks for itself, narrating the elements and moments that inspired its creation. The song continues to inspire and resonate today. It's been covered by artists like Usher and anchored Spotify's Black Lives Matter playlist. Readers of all ages will be encouraged to lift their own voices in a celebration of Black pride and identity.
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About the contributor(s)
About the contributor(s)
R.J. Owens is an attorney living in Oakland, California. A Song So Black, So Proud! is his debut picture book and was inspired by singer James Brown's transformation as an artist during the civil rights movement.
Keisha Okafor is a Nigerian American artist and designer who celebrates her heritage in her bold texture-rich designs. She lives in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Book details
Book details
ISBN: 9781534112704
Publisher: Sleeping Bear Press
Date published:
Page count: 40
Categories, genres & themes: Juvenile Fiction / Social Themes / Activism & Social Justice , Juvenile Fiction / Social Themes / Self-Esteem & Self-Reliance, Juvenile Fiction / Poetry, and Juvenile Fiction / Performing Arts / Music
Ages: 6 to 7