The Sound of Freedom by Raymond Arsenault

Released March 2009

This book gives an in-depth look at the life and career of Marian Anderson, an American icon whose activism was born out of the challenges she faced as an African-American singer during the time of Jim Crow and segregation.  Anderson’s talent was too great to be kept down and her beautiful contralto voice brought her well-deserved fame and adoration in Europe.

“The Sound of Freedom” traces her family origins, early life and career against the background of America’s mindset in this part of the 20th century.  The contrast of Anderson’s challenges to events of today are clear and her legacy and triumph on the Washington Mall are shown to all be a part of what made that possible.

Anderson is perhaps best known for her concert on the Washington Mall, when she sang before a massive crowd on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial.  That image of her in mid-song is the cover photo of this book, and is also a part of the Lissa K. McLean mural in the Delta Township District Library.  She is included on our mural celebrating women of achievement for her strength and talent and this book does a wonderful job of sharing her amazing story and it’s impact on America today. — Sara Wedell, Adult Services Librarian

The Necklace: Thirteen Women and the Experiment That Transformed Their Lives by Cheryl Jarvis

Released Sept. 9, 2008

This is the true story of thirteen women who chipped in for group custody of $37,000 diamond necklace.  By meeting as a group every time “Jewelia” changed hands, the women went from being acquaintances and co-workers to being a group of close friends.   The necklace means something different to each of them and affects each of them individually.  In one case, it rekindles a marriage, in another, connects a lonely woman with much-needed friendship.

The story is as charming as the original idea is unusual, but the end result, that this group of women who come together to share a necklace ultimately come to share their time and energy with the community.  – Sara Wedell, Adult Services Librarian