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Rise Up With a Song: The True Story of Ethel Smyth, Suffragette Composer

Release Date: November 22, 2022

Illustrated by: Helena Pérez García

Published by: Bushel & Peck Books

Now Available in French (Show Details)

La Voix Des Femmes, L’Histoire Vraie De Ethel Smyth, Suffragette Et Compositrice

Adapted by: Kimane

Release Date: February 9, 2024

Illustrated by: Helena Pérez García

Show Description

In 1867 England, a girl learned to be proper and speak when spoken to. But one girl marched to a different beat. Ethel Smyth climbed fences, explored graveyards, and yearned to become a famous composer at a time when only men could publish their music. But become a composer she did, first signing her music as E. Smyth so people couldn’t guess her gender, then eventually writing openly as a woman (but still sometimes not getting paid ). Ethel had had enough. She joined the suffragette movement, marching in the streets and fighting for the right to vote. She even composed the famous “March of the Women” battle cry–and directed it from her cell window with a toothbrush when she was put into prison.

In superb text and stunning illustrations, Rise Up With a Song tells this remarkable story of Ethel Smyth, the woman who refused to stay down and who used her music to change the fate of women around the world. Backmatter includes a brief bio of Ethel’s musical life, a list of famous works, and even a fascimile of her famous “March of the Women.” An essential addition to musical and feminist libraries everywhere.

“Brave women in history are examples that help us to be brave in the present. Learning about Ethel Smyth will be life-changing right now.”

Gloria Steinem, activist, icon, and champion of women’s rights

“As I discovered when I first encountered her superb compositions, Ethel Smyth’s music speaks for itself. But reading about her remarkable life story can also compel us to do more-to be more bold and to fight for what we believe in. Told here in a wonderful way by Diane Worthey, this book will inspire people of all ages and genders.”

James Blachly, GRAMMY Award Winning conductor of Ethel Smyth’s The Prison

“A stirring tribute to a free-spirited composer who rode roughshod over her time’s constraints on women… A rare nod to a now (but undeservedly) obscure artist, eloquent and inspirational.”

Kirkus Reviews, 2022 Starred Review

Accolades

2023

Children’s Book Council Notable Social Studies Trade Book

2022

Starred Kirkus Review

Purchase Options

English Language

French Language

In One Ear & Out the Other: Antonia Brico & Her Amazingly Musical Life

Release Date: October 6, 2020

Illustrated by: Morgana Wallace

Published by: Penny Candy Books

Show Description

In a time when women were told they couldn’t become conductors, Antonia Brico didn’t listen to discouraging words. Those words went in one ear and out the other.

The second title in Penny Candy’s Amazing Women Series of nonfiction picture books, In One Ear and Out the Other: Antonia Brico & Her Amazingly Musical Life tells the story of one woman’s fight to gain recognition as a conductor in an era when men dominated classical music. The first woman to guest-conduct the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, Antonia Brico never secured a permanent conducting job with a major symphony—but her contributions paved the way for the many women conductors to follow. A true visionary in the long fight for equal opportunities for women.

Beautifully complementing Worthey’s history are Wallace’s eye-catching watercolor and collage illustrations…great for non-fiction collections, particularly where books about historical women in music are lacking.

Booklist Review of the Day, 10/23/20

“Dr. Antonia Brico was my teacher from the time I was 10 years old. She was a dynamic and amazing woman. Now we have a beautiful book about her life where little children can learn what can happen when you pursue your dreams and do what’s in your deepest heart…What a beautiful book!”

Judy Collins, iconic folk musician and former student of Antonia Brico

Accolades

2022

Rise: A Feminist Book Project List

2021

1st Place Winner Paterson Prize For Books For Young People

2020

Junior Library Guild Book

Purchase Options

Coming Soon!

The Sound Museum: Classical Music: Explore the World of Instruments, Composers, and Symphonies with Over 400 Sounds!

Planned Release Date: August 4th, 2026

Illustrator: Teresa Bellón

Publisher: Bushel & Peck Books