Change Sings: A Children's Anthem Hardcover – Picture Book, September 21, 2021

Amanda Gorman is brilliant and extremely gifted as a poet. Loren Long’s illustrations are beautifully rendered and very purposeful in their detail as he brings to life her stirring words. I hadn’t known she had written this children’s book but when I saw she had, I immediately knew it was a treasure. Now that I received my copy and took the time to read and carefully look at the illustrations, I’m even happier with my purchase. I have already bought a couple copies and had them sent to friends. What a moving story! Incredibly inspiring. I love that the main character is a female black girl and she joins a Jewish boy (one can see the yarmulke) and together they clean up their hometown, picking up empty discarded bottles in the park. The reader sees them do good deeds. They provide food for a hungry child and for an elderly housebound woman. They sing for the woman. And they show tolerance for a boy who plugs his ears at their music; they offer him a smaller instrument (perhaps it won’t sound as loud to him?) She also offers a bone to a muscular dog (a pitbull perhaps?) as the narrative describes “courage” to act with tolerance. Later, we see various instruments offered to each child to create an ever-growing “band” of children who answer the call of “change” and create music together. It is a beautiful book and I’ve proudly displayed it on my coffee table. I am delighted by how it empowers children (and adult children too) by demonstrating that change begins inside of a single person. And that attitude can be contagious and impact our environment and communities in a very positive way. Amanda writes”I am just what the world needs, referring to how children might view themselves and the difference they can make. I think that this is the book the world needs and has always needed.

So inspiring and beautiful!

Amanda Gorman is a fabulous contemporary African American poet, (who recited her poem at Biden’s inauguration ). This is a wonderfully written poem / song for children to teach them about inclusiveness. Not just for African Americans, this book touches on how all children can make a change in the world, whatever ethnic or cultural backgrounds they are from, whether they have disabilities, or are dealing with prejudice. It is a simple book with lovely illustrations. A great gift for any child.

If you like to discuss poetry and how it rhymes, you will love this book! Ms. Gorman, as always, gives us authentic word choice and change ups in rhythm and rhyme to deliver her thoughtful, heartfelt message. Gentle, inviting illustrations by Loren Long bolster the philosophical messages. The music motif adds another layer of meaning to the message of change (music travels and changes/"playing changes") and the delight in not only embracing change but creativity and action as part of change. Also, as in a musical situation, each person is unique and important, but the music is made as a group. This is a treasure of a book, to be savored and read aloud! For all ages, truly.

Perfect book for Elementary aged kids

I am using this book in church as the time for all ages. It is perfect.

Bought & Donated to a preschool where littles could be read to and exposed to a Poet Laureate from an early age. Bright graphics, excellent writing and a quality book for their little school library.

LOVE! I purchased this book thinking my 20-month-old would grow into it, but on the first day we read it at least 20 times. He loves the illustrations and enjoys hearing me read the book. Beyond his love for this book, I also enjoy it and like that it has a great message for him to take in as he gets older. I feel like this book will inspire a lot of good and would suggest it to everyone regardless of age.

Chegou em perfeito estado, no tempo previsto.

I absolutely love this book, both the poetry and the imagery. It's hard to get through it without getting emotional. I love the message and love reading it to my son at every opportunity!

Bought for grand daughter a bit young yet to understand content. At the the moment she loves the illustrations but hopefully will understand the content along the way

Dieses Gedicht schließt nahtlos an ihr Gedicht "The Hill we climb" an. Es ist ermutigend und voller Inspiration und Hoffnung! Es ist gleichermaßen zart und kraftvoll, wie ein Lied, das einen immer wieder motiviert und aufstehen läßt. Dieses Buch ist ein wunderschönes Kinderbuch, aber genauso gut auch ein Erwachsenenbuch.

Absolutely beautiful work by Amanda Gorman and Loren Long. Each page and word is a treat to the heart and soul.