Pete Seeger used savings from his allowance to buy his first banjo when he was in high school. Around the same time, he went to his first protests, marching with his middle-class father in workers’ parades during the Depression, attending gatherings where songs about workers’ rights were sung. Music and activism would continue to shape his life. This substantial picture book account follows Seeger’s journey through decades. His passionate involvement in causes such as union organizing, the Civil Rights Movement, and environmental issues helped make music one of the defining elements of those causes for many. At the same time, it was Pete’s genuine interest in and concern for people, and his ability to invite everyone to join in the song, that made him beloved. Ample quotes are incorporated into a text set against realistic illustrations in which well-known faces (e.g, Martin Luther King, Jr.) make occasional appearances. An author’s note and source material are part of the end matter. (Ages 5-9)

In this uplifting memoir, the acclaimed singer reflects “on life, the arts, and spirituality . . . Inspiring” (Booklist).
 
Jessye Norman is one of the world’s most admired and beloved singers—and her life story is as moving and dramatic as the great operatic roles she has performed on stage.
 
Born and raised in Augusta, Georgia, she studied the piano and sang the songs of her childhood, never dreaming that this passion for music might lead to her life’s profession. Here she presents “a rich portrait of a childhood firmly grounded by family, church and community,” and recalls in rich detail the strong women who were her role models, from her ancestors to family friends, relatives, and teachers (The Wall Street Journal). She also discusses her relationship with the pioneering African American singer Marian Anderson—revealing the lifelong support she provided through her example of dignity and grace at all times.
 
Norman also describes coming face-to-face with racism, both as a child living in the segregated South and as an adult out and about in the world. Filled with inspiration and wisdom, Stand Up Straight and Sing! is not just for lovers of music, but for everyone.