Bridges Instead of Walls
The Story of Mavis Staples
1 of 1 copy available
At 85, Mavis Staples is still singing in front of large audiences and sharing her message of love, faith, and justice. She’s been performing since age eight as part of her family’s gospel group The Staple Singers, and has become one of America’s most admired musicians, with multiple Grammys, a Kennedy Center Honor, and a place in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. But Mavis has been more than a thrilling singer; she has also stood alongside Martin Luther King, Jr., at numerous Civil Rights protests where her voice was a rallying cry to the country. Now she and acclaimed author Carole Boston Weatherford bring her story and her inspiring message to young people in this poetic audiobook.
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Creators
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Publisher
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Awards
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Release date
July 9, 2024 -
Formats
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OverDrive Listen audiobook
- ISBN: 9780593868201
- File size: 13491 KB
- Duration: 00:28:06
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Languages
- English
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Reviews
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June 24, 2024
Staples and Boston Weatherford collaborate to recount the extraordinary musical life of Mavis Staples (b. 1939). Raised in a strict household rooted in faith, Staples began singing gospel music alongside family at her uncle’s church. Pages that reference tunes (“Freedom Highway”) encompass the family’s performances at various churches, beside Martin Luther King Jr., and
at the Apollo, alongside the challenges of racist policies
on the road, and eventual success in Hollywood. Staples’s love for her hometown Chicago and gospel music and dedication to civil rights recur throughout the book, while Walthall’s illustrations, employing portraiture and era-specific images, complement the direct narrative. Back matter includes recommended listening and viewing, and a timeline. Ages 6–9. -
Singer and activist Mavis Staples brings her iconic, resonant voice to the narration of this audiobook, giving young listeners an unforgettable glimpse of her remarkable musical life. In a voice ringing with warmth, humor, and conviction, Staples describes her musical roots, which began with gospel and later branched out to soul, R&B, and more. The rich timbre of Staples's voice is enthralling, and the emotions she brings to her narration are palpable: pure joy at recalling her young, determined self; wonder at meetings with Martin Luther King, Elvis Presley, and Prince; and sorrow at the passing of family members. Adenrele Ojo capably narrates the supplemental materials, including a timeline and suggestions for further study. A tour de force, this is not to be missed. S.A.H. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2024, Portland, Maine
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