Lift Every Voice and Change: A Celebration of Black Leaders and the Words That Inspire Generations (A Sound Book)

In an interactive picture book that features brief audio clips, the creators honor public Black American individuals who have used their voices to, per an opening note, “help challenge thoughts and ideas or speak out against unfairness and injustices.” Dedicating a spread each to 12 prominent figures, including Stacey Abrams, James Baldwin, Stokely Carmichael, Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter, John Lewis, Toni Morrison, and Ayo Tometi, Gordon supplies a cursory biography of each, alongside a quote—also provided via audio—and an interactive callout box that ends with a question (“How can you be like John Lewis to help inspire your country or community?”). Realistic full-color portraits by Cargill seem to capture each figure mid-action: Baldwin gestures over a cup of coffee, Lewis stands in front of the Edmund Pettus Bridge, Morrison pauses over an open notebook. It’s a straightforward biographical packaging that challenges readers to hone their own voices. Back matter includes a glossary and further reading suggestions. Ages 7–12. (Jan.)