Bryan Collier’s breathtaking illustrations of the Civil Rights protest song make this book an important addition to any elementary library. Each refrain is supported by the visual portrayal of the text with the current day children of color living and dreaming beside a black and white portrayal of historical events and figures important to the Civil Rights movement. The message is thought provoking and uplifting and celebrates progress while recognizing there is still change that needs to happen.

Since the text is based on the lyrics from the original gospel hymn, the breadth of the message is broadened beyond the repeated refrain most often part of Civil Rights protests.

The endpapers explain the origins of the hymn and provides details on the significance of the black and white historical events.