Build a House by Rhiannon Giddens

Build a House shows the resilience and hope of human nature through a story about a family who perseveres in building a house, setting down roots, and making music in spite of hardship.

Build a House by Rhiannon Giddens, illustrated by Monica Mikai, Candlewick Press, 2022. 40 pages.

• Reading Level: Picture book, ages 8-10
• Recommended For: Ages 8-10

Written in the style of a traditional folk song, Build a House depicts a Black family who is forced to labor in cotton fields and to build home for their master. Of course they are not allowed to enjoy the fruit of their labor, and the family is sent away to begin life together on their own.

They build a house, but enemies burn it down. Others take their songs and make them part of the broader bluegrass folk culture, without appreciation for their African origin, and the family is made homeless again.

But the family perseveres, finding a new place to make a home where they can put down roots (literally) and make their own music again for coming generations.

Although the story recognizes the evils of slavery, it also shows the resilience and hope of human nature. Observant children will notice the little girl tending and protecting her plant, and the importance of music in the family and passing on culture. Make sure you use the QR code at the end to listen to Rhiannon Giddens sing this story, accompanied by Yo-Yo Ma.

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Recommended Reading at Redeemed Reader

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• Resource: Longing for Home: a blog post by Gladys Hunt
• Book Review: Picture books about Houses: Farmhouse and House Finds a Home

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