Reese's Review of When Marian Sang

Robert F. Sibert Honor Book

ALA Notable Book for Children

              I am not truly sure what is most memorable in this picture book, the motivating story of Marion’s determination to overcome the obstacles put in her way or the rich illustrations that beg the reader to spend time teasing out the fine details within them.  Pam Munoz Ryan has taken the historic facts of Marion Anderson’s life and written a biography which is entrancing in its rich mixture of story and spiritual music.  Brain Selznick has put equal effort into the illustrations layering historical details and support for the text into each page. He has managed to incorporate into the illustrations foreshadowing (in the scene where Marion’s mother is comforting her, the wallpaper behind them is a pattern from the Old Metropolitan Theater where Marion would later sing) as well as paying homage to his uncle, who inspired the story, in the scene of Marion singing to the crowds at the Lincoln Memorial. Personally, there was nothing that I didn’t like.  Marion Anderson’s quiet, unassuming bravado in meeting the challenges of racism head on with grace and tact is an amazing one.  Often, those that are loud and up front are heralded (rightly so), but yet those that face challenges in a different way are overlooked.  This book makes sure that Marion Anderson’s talent and effects on history won’t be forgotten.

Ryan, P.M. (2002). When Marion sang. New York: Scholastic .