Beautifully told and illustrated picture book biography about one of not so well known jazz & blues singers of the early 1900s. My daughter, who is 8 and in the second grade, read it on her own and enjoyed it. It touches on the racism of that time, and stresses the importance of standing your ground in the face of indignity. Children who like this book, might enjoy the picture book When Grandmama Sings by Margaree King Mitchell ( )

A heartwarming story about a little- known, yet extremely influential figure from the Harlem Renaissance. The story of Florence Mills can inspire others to pursue their dreams. Author’s Note

Florence Mills was a small girl with a big voice. Her hobby of singing on the playground and at local talents contests would lead her to becoming an international singing sensation. This however, was not without conflict. Florence faced racism not only in America but in the European countries she performed in as well. This inspired Florence to use her voice as a tool to advocate for civil rights and to promote other black artists. The success she had and the sacrifices Florence made are inspiring and empowering. To stare prejudice in the face the way that she did is not an easy feat, and she should be reveled as the strong performer and activist she was. The illustrations and strong message the book sends would make it a perfect read for elementary school children. ( )

A beautiful biography about the life of Florence Mills. She paved the way for African American performers with her soft but fierce voice. This book can be used when discussing famous African Americans during the Harlem Renaissance. ( )

Wow, what a book! This story uncovers the life of Florence Mills, a Harlem Vaudeville star in 1920s. I have never heard about her before! She was a famous singer and dancer; when the show she was starring in, Blackbirds, came to London's Pavilion Theatre, the Prince of Wales saw it more than 20 times. Florence had an incredible talent - a breathtaking voice. Strangely, it was never recorded, so not many people today know of her.
She was born in Washington DC in a poor family of former slaves. She started performing as a little girl at fancy theater where black people were not allowed. Then when she grew up her and her sisters started singing and dancing together (Mills Sisters) in New York city. Florence gave performances all over US, and, eventually, got a role in Shuffle Along, in New York, a play that showed jazz to white audiences. It was a huge success. But in stead of keeping playing on Broadway, she chose smaller stages where she could support fellow black artists, give them voices. In her show Blackbirds she fights for civil rights: "I'm a little blackbird looking for a bluebird too".. But more importantly, she was very giving and kind. On her tours she would disguise herself so no one was able to recognize her, and visit people in the hospitals, and give food and money to the beggars. She is my hero!! ( )