Shouting!

by Joyce Carol Thomas, Annie Lee (Illustrator)

Shouting! is the holy dance. It's the exhilarating, foot-tapping, hand-clapping, gospel slide, quick-step-of-the feet, and being seized by the spirit in the sanctified church. Propelled by music, you can hear and feel this dance from your soul to the tips of your toes. Read along as the "good spirit" moves a mother and daughter and their congregation to take part in a wondrous celebration of life, faith, and hope. Joyce Carol Thomas lyrically describes getting "happy" or "shouting," while Annie Lee's colorfully rich artwork, full of vivid, cherished memories, makes this a transcending spiritual experience for all.

Genres: Picture Books, African American, Music

32 pages, Hardcover

First published December 12, 2006

About the author

Joyce Carol Thomas was an internationally renowned author who received the National Book Award for her first novel, Marked By Fire, and a Coretta Scott King Honor for her first picture book, Brown Honey In Broomwheat Tea. Her other titles include I Have Heard Of A Land, a Coretta Scott King Honor Book; The Gospel Cinderella; cCrowning Glory; Gingerbread Days; and A Gathering Of Flowers. Ms. Thomas lived in Berkeley, California.

Reviews

[Samantha DeVoir · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wanted to like this book and I like the reason Thomas wrote it, but think the story left some to be desired. What really turned me off to this book were the faceless people. The otherwise gorgeous illustrations were greatly lacking because Lee did not give faces to the people. I'm sure there was a reason, perhaps because the movement of the Holy Spirit is the focus, but especially since this is a children's book, I think it would be more beneficial to give faces to the people.

[Anita Foley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am absolutely enthralled with this book! It fills my heart every time I read it, and I can't help but laugh out loud at Annie Lee's wonderfully expressive art. It is a real treat! I wouldn't trade my personal copy for anything. I would give it ten stars if I could!

[Shone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this story, took me back to my childhood days seeing my grandmother and other ladies Shouting. Music put a smile on your face.

[Darrielle · Rating 3 out of 5]

This read is warming and gives insight into southern churches and the experiences of many of the people who make Church a part of their weekly lives. This book is best for a church read or at home with family.