Fifty years ago, Marian Anderson subtly but meaningfully changed the lyrics of “America” (better known by its first line, “My Country, ‘Tis of Thee”) as she performed on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial—an anniversary that has been poignantly celebrated this year. Claire Rudolf Murphy’s meticulous research brings to life the history of this song, demonstrating that Marian Anderson was neither the first nor the last to manipulate the lyrics for the cause of civil rights. From suffragettes to slaves to American Indians, it seems that every protest movement in our nation’s history has embraced My Country, ‘Tis of Thee (Holt, $17.99) as an anthem. The great Bryan Collier’s signature collages enhance this important but accessible approach to the history of civil rights. Ages 5-10. Emily Ellerbe