The Singer and the Scientist
Lisa Rose
Publication Date:
15 Jun. 2021
Format:
Paperback / softback
ISBN 9781541576100
It's 1937, and Marian Anderson is one of the most famous singers in America. But after she gives a performance for an all-white audience, she learns that the nearby hotel is closed to African Americans. She doesn't know where she'll stay for the night.
Until the famous scientist Albert Einstein invites her to stay at his house. Marian, who endures constant discrimination as a Black performer, learns that Albert faced prejudice as a Jew in Germany. She discovers their shared passion for music—and their shared hopes for a more just world.
Information
Book Type: Picture BooksAge Group: 5 to 11 years
Traffic Lights:
Class Novel: No
Good Reads Rating: /5
Literary Rating: /5
Review
This picture book tells the story of a night in 1937, when African American singer Marian Anderson performed at the McCarter theatre for an all-white crowd. When she asked for accommodation afterwards, she was told that the nearby inn wouldn't take her due to her race. But this was the beginning of an unlikely friendship: in the crowd was Albert Einstein, who had been amazed by her performance and offered Marian his spare room to stay in.
The pair bonded over their love of music and their experience of being isolated in their respective home countries. It was a friendship that stood the test of time, lasting until Albert died in 1955.
A beautiful story with hidden power. Love of the arts brought this unlikely pair of friends together, but empathy strengthened their friendship.
This book would make a great entry point for gently exploring racial segregation and oppression, drawing connections between historical eras.
It would also work as a starting point for discussion of what racial prejudice looks like today, and what we can do to help others.
Themes
Content Notes
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