What a Morning!: The Christmas Story in Black Spirituals

What a Morning!: The Christmas Story in Black Spirituals is a stunningly illustrated anthology that celebrates the rich traditions of Black spirituality through the Christmas story. This enchanting book, curated by acclaimed artist Ashley Bryan, is more than just a reading experience; it is an invitation into a culturally rich narrative where art and music harmonize beautifully. From the moment you open its pages, you are greeted with vibrant illustrations that tell a story as timeless as...

What a Morning!: The Christmas Story in Black Spirituals is a stunningly illustrated anthology that celebrates the rich traditions of Black spirituality through the Christmas story. This enchanting book, curated by acclaimed artist Ashley Bryan, is more than just a reading experience; it is an invitation into a culturally rich narrative where art and music harmonize beautifully. From the moment you open its pages, you are greeted with vibrant illustrations that tell a story as timeless as the music it contains. This piece not only features Mary, Joseph, and Jesus depicted as a Black family but also invites readers to witness angels playing African instruments amidst a spectacular display of colors and intricate artwork. The book is designed not merely to entertain but also to educate, making it a perfect complement to any Christmas celebration.

• Beautiful Illustrations: The book features mesmerizing artwork that combines various artistic styles, making it visually captivating.
• Musical Component: Includes five full sheet music versions of popular spiritual songs that can be utilized for choir practices and performances.
• Cultural Richness: Depicts the Christmas narrative through a lens that acknowledges and celebrates Black culture and traditions.
• Teaching Tool: The book serves as an exceptional resource for choir directors and educators, combining storytelling with music education.
• Meaningful Connections: Each illustration ties directly to the songs, allowing young readers to connect visually and musically, enriching their understanding of the Christmas spirit.

Target Audience:

• Educators and choir directors looking to incorporate culture into music lessons.
• Families seeking to enhance their Christmas traditions with diverse storytelling.
• Children who are interested in learning about music and its historical significance.
• Music enthusiasts eager for arrangements of Black spirituals.
• Anyone looking for meaningful gift options to inspire creativity and spirituality during the holidays.

The Best Occasions to Use This Gift: This delightful book is perfect for various festive occasions:

• Christmas Eve celebrations, providing a deep connection to the music and the spirit of the season.
• Family gatherings where storytelling and music come together to create lasting memories.
• School and church events that aim to educate children about rich cultural traditions.
• Gift-giving during the holiday season to spread joy and meaningful messages.

Comparison with Competitors:

While there are many Christmas-themed children’s books, What a Morning! distinguishes itself with its unique blend of traditional spirituals and engaging illustrations. Unlike typical Christmas books that often rely on standard narratives, this book offers a refreshing perspective, highlighting underrepresented cultures and traditions. Its inclusion of musical scores adds a valuable educational component that many competitors lack. Where others may provide superficial storytelling, What a Morning! deepens the reader's understanding and connection to the music, making it not just a book, but a holistic experience.

Why You Will Love This Product: This book will not only enrich your holiday celebrations but also provide an opportunity for learning and reflection. The combination of scripture, music, and vibrant storytelling will resonate with readers of all ages, imparting a sense of joy, inspiration, and unity. Every page invites you to feel the rhythm of the spirituals, creating a powerful atmosphere that elevates the entire Christmas experience. Reverence, culture, and art converge in this exceptional book, making it a treasured addition to your family's collection.