This installment of Good Trouble continues a look at the strong connections between music and activism, as well as individual artists who have made an impact.  In this post, find books related to two powerful songs:  “We Shall Overcome” and “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”  For earlier Good Trouble: Music – Protest and Activism posts, click here: Part 1 and Part 2.

“We Shall Overcome”

We Shall Overcome: the Story of a Song by Debbie Levy, art by Vanessa Brantley-Newton

A bright and colorful introduction to the Civil Rights movement, the history of the song, and its place in history up through the Presidency of Barack Obama, as well as its global impact, such as in South Africa under apartheid.

We Shall Overcome: a Song That Changed the World by Stuart Stotts

A more in-depth review of the history of the song, the Civil Rights movement, and the social and political climate of the time.  Features great historical photographs and a CD with a recording of “We Shall Overcome” by Pete Seeger.

We Shall Overcome by Bryan Collier

Caldecott Medal Winner Collier places the lyrics of the song across each page, with illustrations contrasting a contemporary Black girl’s school day with the school day of those during the Civil Rights movement and school integration.

“Lift Every Voice and Sing”

Lift Every Voice and Sing: a Celebration of the African American National Anthem by James Weldon Johnson, art by Elizabeth Catlett

Johnson’s lyrics combined with striking linocuts by Catlett, an artist of the Harlem Renaissance, make for a powerful work depicting the struggles and successes of Black people in America.

Lift Every Voice and Sing by James Weldon Johnson, art by Bryan Collier

Similar to We Shall Overcome by Collier above, this book takes the lyrics of the song and sets a contemporary Black boy’s day to the song. From rising in the morning through singing in his Church’s choir, it demonstrates the freedoms won contrasted with the journey of slaves and the work of Civil Rights activists.

Why “Good Trouble”?

Among many important things, civil rights activist and Congressman John Lewis was famous for using the term “good trouble” when speaking on fighting against injustice in this country. This blog series will highlight books in our collection that might inspire you towards activism or provide you some ways to cause some “good trouble” fighting against societal injustices.

“Speak up, speak out, get in the way. Get in good trouble, necessary trouble, and help redeem the soul of America.”

“What can you do to get into good trouble? There is a light inside of you that will turn on when you get into good trouble. You will feel emboldened and freed. You will realize that unjust laws cannot stop you. These laws cannot stop the truth that is in your heart and soul.”

“Do not get lost in a sea of despair. Be hopeful, be optimistic. Our struggle is not the struggle of a day, a week, a month, or a year, it is the struggle of a lifetime. Never, ever be afraid to make some noise and get in good trouble, necessary trouble.”

– John Lewis

Note: If you are interested in learning more about the life of  John Lewis, I highly recommend the March trilogy of graphic novels.