Every February we celebrate and reflect on the history of African Americans in the United States. We understand that Black history is American history which is why we’re loving “Sing a Song: How ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’ Inspired Generations” written by

Kelly Starling Lyons and illustrated by Keith Mallett. 

The story follows generations of families who pass down the powerful message of a song that would come to be known as the “African American National Anthem” from its composition all the way through the opening of The National Museum of African American History and Culture. 

When paired with teaching the song, students gain the opportunity to learn American history, lyrical analysis, 6/8 meter, stepwise motion, chromatics, and leaps!