Last week my mother in law arrived to babysit with a beautiful gift in hand, When Marian Sang  by Pam Munoz, pictures by Brian Selznik.

The story tells of the life of Marian Anderson, the amazingly talented singer who was discriminated against for years based on the color of her skin. As can be expected from the author illustrator team of Ryan and Selznick, the story and pictures are incredible. I have gone back again and again to examine the illustrations and to learn a little bit more of the story in doing so.

I always love when I see an author that I love and an illustrator that I love come together to create something special. Ryan’s, The Dreamer and Selznick’s, The Tale of Hugo Cabret were two of the best books that I read last year. No wonder they were able to create something so magical in When Marian Sings.

At the top of my To Be Read List  is now, the duos first book, Amelia and Eleanor Go for a Ride. Perhaps I will discuss it next Monday…