Hey, hey,
This week on Reading To Connect, I’m honored to share a conversation with the incredible Cheryl Willis Hudson, author of When I Hear Spirituals and co-founder of Just Us Books.
Cheryl’s work has been a guiding light in Black children’s literature for decades. In this episode, we talk about the deep connection between music, storytelling, and history—and how spirituals serve as both a bridge between generations and a tool for connection.
“Spirituals are the heartbeat of our history. They carried our ancestors through sorrow and joy, through faith and resistance. These songs are not just music—they are stories, they are survival, they are us." — Cheryl Willis Hudson
Cheryl shares how her new book, When I Hear Spirituals, was inspired by the songs she grew up with and the layered emotions they hold—joy, sorrow, pride, and resilience. We also dive into the importance of Black-owned publishing, the role of picture books in preserving cultural memory, and why we must keep resisting erasure in literature.
What You’ll Learn:
How spirituals connect the past, present, and future through song
Why picture books are more than just stories—they're historical documents
The fight for representation in children’s publishing and the origins of Just Us Books
How parents and educators can use books and music to spark deeper conversations with kids
This episode is a powerful reminder that reading isn’t just about the words on the page—it’s about connection, legacy, and the stories we pass down. I hope it sparks conversations in your home the way it has for me.
Let me know what moments stood out to you!
All my best,
Quinn 📚💕
P.S. When I Hear Spirituals is more than just a book—it’s a musical and historical experience. Listen to the episode, explore the book’s resources, and let us know how spirituals have shaped your own family’s stories.
Other children’s books by Cheryl Willis Hudson:
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