Written by Katheryn Russell-Brown
Illustrated by Laura Freeman
Published by Bloomsbury Children's Books
A Voice Named Aretha (2020)
From acclaimed author and illustrator pairing comes a beautiful picture book biography about the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, and how she fought for respect throughout her life.
Aretha Franklin is the Queen of Soul, a legend. But before she became a star, she was a shy little girl with a voice so powerful it made people jump up, sway, and hum along.
Raised in a house full of talking and singing, Aretha learned the values that would carry her through life–from her church choir in Detroit to stages across the world. When she moved to New York City to start her career, it took years of hard work before she had a hit song. In the turbulent 1960s, she sang about “Respect” and refused to perform before segregated audiences. The first woman inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Aretha always remembered who she was and where she came from.
In this stirring biography of a true artistic and social icon, award-winning creators Katheryn Russell-Brown and Laura Freeman show young readers how Aretha’s talent, intelligence, and perseverance made her a star who will shine on for generations to come.
Reviews
“An excellent introduction to an American icon.” – Kirkus Reviews, starred review
“This richly detailed look at the Queen of Soul is an essential biography of an American icon.” – School Library Journal, starred review
“This beautifully illustrated look at the life of the world-renowned Queen of Soul is a sensational introduction for young readers to the artist’s life and body of work.” – Booklist
“Hits the highlights of Franklin’s life. . . . Freeman’s illustrations . . . capture much of the body language, facial expression, and head-thrown-back joy associated with Franklin’s performance.” – BCCB
“Franklin’s ongoing support of civil rights is a recurring theme.…Freeman’s clear, crisp illustrations add welcome vibrancy to the text’s straightforward narrative style.” – Publishers Weekly