146. The Singer and the Scientist

The Singer and the Scientist. Lisa Rose. Illustrated by Isabel Munoz. 2021. [April] 32 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Peeling back the velvet curtain, Marian peeked out at the chatting audience.

Premise/plot: Set in 1937 in New Jersey, The Singer and the Scientist tells the story of the friendship between Marian Anderson (the singer) and Albert Einstein (the scientist). After her performance, Marian is troubled to learn that she won't be allowed to stay at the local nearby hotel--it's a whites-only hotel, no exceptions. Einstein, who was in the audience, overhears invites her to stay at his own home in a guest room. The two become friends and learn that they share many things in common.

My thoughts: What a great picture book! I loved the narrative. I loved the illustrations. It was just beautifully done.

Quote:

His voice boomed loudly as he explained that the Nassau was a whites only hotel. All the talking in the lobby ceased. Everyone looked at Marion, but not as a star. Not even as a person.

© 2021 Becky Laney of Young Readers