A Voice Named Aretha

By Katheryn Russell-Brown, Laura Freeman (Illustrator)

Discover how a shy girl became the Queen of Soul, fighting for respect and equality.

4.1/5 Goodreads · 282 ratings

40 pages· 1,153 words· Est. 9 min read-aloud

$17.99Save 6%

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Bookroo's summary

Aretha Franklin, a shy girl with a powerful voice, grew up in a musical Detroit home. Her journey to stardom was marked by relentless effort and a refusal to perform for segregated audiences. As the first woman in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Aretha's legacy of resilience and her anthem "Respect" continue to inspire. This biography captures her rise from church choirs to global stages, highlighting her role as a social icon who fought for equal rights through her music. Witness the making of a legend whose influence endures across generations.

From the publisher

A beautiful picture book biography about the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, and how she fought for equal rights throughout her life.

Aretha Louise Franklin grew up in a house of music. The shy daughter of a famous Detroit preacher and civil rights activist, Aretha’s big voice surprised those around her, and everyone agreed: her powerful singing would someday make her a star.

After relocating to New York City and signing a record deal, Aretha relentlessly pursued her dream of stardom. But it took many years of tireless touring and recording until her hit record “Respect” finally brought her the acclaim she deserved. Along the way, Aretha used her talents to fight for respect and equal rights along the way by refusing to perform for “whites only” audiences. With six decades of hits, countless memorable performances, and millions of lives touched, Aretha’s legacy of resilience and respect will inspire for generations to come.

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