Rise Up and Sing!: Power, Protest, and Activism in Music by Andrea Warner (review)

Abstract

Reviewed by: Rise Up and Sing!: Power, Protest, and Activism in Music by Andrea Warner Wesley Jacques Warner, Andrea Rise Up and Sing!: Power, Protest, and Activism in Music; illus. by Louise Reimer. Greystone Kids, 2023 [200p] Trade ed. ISBN 9781771648981 $19.95 Reviewed from digital galleys R* Gr. 7-11 In this nonfiction book, Warner's argument that music plays a significant part in all forms of activism is presented convincingly and colorfully alongside the digital illustrations of Louise Reimer. Chapters focus on eight overlapping areas of activism, from climate and racial justice to disability and queer rights to the anti-war and anti-colonialism movements and so much more in between. The spotlight moves seamlessly from faces recognized by the mainstream, like climate activist Greta Thunberg and pop singer Billie Eilish, to key figures that deserve more recognition, like environmental activist Xiuhtezcatl Martinez and singer/rapper Mumu Fresh, both of whom champion how inseparable climate action and Indigenous rights are. The origins of Greenpeace and the brutal history of North American residential schools are paired with detailed accounts of anti-police violence award show performances and punk rock lyrical analysis, suggesting a diverse breadth of challenges and a sonic optimism about meeting them. Ultimately, a thoughtful and detailed showcase of revolutionary movements, admirable individuals, and rich music—past and present—makes for a playlist-cum-book of activism as undoubtedly educational as it is exciting to hear. Copyright © 2023 The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois