(2) YA This absorbing novel follows young Caleb Willows as he moves from slavery to freedom, eventually joining Fisk University's Jubilee Singers. While it occasionally succumbs to didacticism, for the most part the matter-of-fact narration lets the reader infer Caleb's pain and confusion as he discovers that freedom is an elusive thing, and that nothing comes without a price.

Reviewer: Terri Schmitz | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 1951

(2) 4-6 They sang together for just a few years following the Civil War, but Fisk University's Jubilee Singers achieved impressive results. This modest history of the group focuses on their role in establishing slave-era spirituals as a musical form popular in the United States and Europe. A small selection of illustrations and early photos is included. Cooper concludes with early texts and music for seven spirituals. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Margaret A. Bush | Horn Book Magazine Issue: January, 2002

(2) 1-3 Illustrated by Raul Colon. Founded for former slaves in 1866, Fisk School (now Fisk University) had to struggle to survive its early years. Hopkinson tells the fictionalized story of Ella Sheppard, pianist for the Jubilee Singers, who went on tour to raise money for their school and were instrumental in introducing spirituals to the world. Colón's illustrations capture the dignity of the Singers and the eloquence of their performance.

Reviewer: Joanna Rudge Long | Horn Book Magazine Issue: March, 1999