An iconic voice: Nina

Today’s picture book pick is…

Nina

Written by Traci N. todd

Illustrated by Christian Robinson

Published by G. P. Putnam’s Sons in 2021

Summary

Icon Nina Simone uses her powerful voice to change a nation.

First line

“Eunice Kathleen Waymon came into this world on February 21, 1933, in the small town of Tryon, North Carolina.”

Favorite line

“She wasn’t the first Waymon child, or the last, but she was the only one who sang before she could talk and found rhythm before she could walk. The only one with music on the inside.”

I love how Traci lingers in Nina’s earlier years, so we understand the stories behind the icon. We see her bold choice not to play music until her mom and dad could sit on the front-row. We see her lose a friend because the color of her skin. We see her try for her dreams and have to find another way. And then ultimately we see her choose to use her music to fight for rights.

Christian’s illustrations are gorgeous! I love how he puts scenes in Nina’s piano throughout the book. We witness the world’s unrest as Nina finds her voice. The beautiful outfits and other details build an entire world to explore.

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Purchase a copy from your local bookstore and leave a review on Amazon and Goodreads.