Reviews

My Country, 'Tis of Thee: How One Song Reveals the History of Civil Rights by Claire Rudolf Murphy

yapha's review

4.0

The song "America," more commonly known as "My Country 'Tis of Thee," is not the national anthem, but has played an important role throughout American history. This book traces its evolution from "God Save the King" in the 1740s, up through the various protests and civil rights struggles it has been used in. The author includes a variety of verses sung to the same tune, in the hopes that the United States would in fact become a "sweet land of liberty." A fascinating look at one song's changing place in history. Recommended for grades 3 and up.

maidmarianlib's review

5.0

Stunning, the progression of the text and how it connects the song and various civil rights events (for freedom, women, and races), is outstanding. The illustrations are lovely with painting and some collage to give them depth.

libscote's review

3.0

There are a lot more lyrics to this song than I realized. It was fun to sing all the different verses. I am not sure if kids will really pick it up, but it's a good overview of protest songs and how things in this country have changed.