A single word introduces the rhyming couplet on each page of this notable singer, musician, and activist's biography. " M-U-S-I-C: Hand-clapping gospel-The Franklins' pedigree. / Parents, children praise the Lord in stirring harmony." Born into a musical family, Aretha made her first gospel album at the age of 14, later expanding into rhythm and blues. As a voice of the civil rights movement, she worked to raise funds and performed at political events, and decades later sang at President Obama's inauguration. Generously-sized pages and oil paint illustrations honor the immense talent and success of the Queen of Soul, while an author's note fills in details of her life and includes a list of Aretha Franklin's greatest hits. (Ages 5-9)