Respect: A Children's Picture Book

Otis Redding's classic song Respect--as popularized by Aretha Franklin--becomes an empowering picture book exploring the concept of mutual respect through the eyes of a young girl.

Respect's] art, by Rachel Moss, a Jamaican illustrator fueled by the energy of the Caribbean, will make readers want to amp up the music and dance, which perhaps is exactly what all of us need right now.
--New York Times Book Review

R-E-S-P-E-C-T / Find out what it means to me
R-E-S-P-E-C-T / Take care, TCB
Oh (sock it to me, sock it to me, sock it to me, sock it to me)
A little respect

Respect is a children's picture book based on lyrics written and originally recorded by Otis Redding in 1965. Aretha Franklin's iconic rendition of the song later peaked at #1 on Billboard's Hot 100 in 1967. Redding's lyrics continue to resonate with listeners today.

With lyrics by Otis Redding and illustrations by Rachel Moss, this irresistible book shows a young girl, her brother, and her parents conjuring as many positive futures for each other as they can dream. Packed with playful vignettes as they imagine a life full of possibility, Respect provides families an opportunity to explore themes of mutual respect--while revisiting one of the greatest songs ever written.

The Otis Redding Foundation. Redding was dedicated to improving the quality of life for his community through the education and empowerment of its youth. He provided scholarships and summer music programs which continued until his untimely death on December 10, 1967. Today, the mission of the Otis Redding Foundation, established in 2007 by Mrs. Zelma Redding, is to empower, enrich, and motivate all young people through programs involving music, writing, and instrumentation. To learn more, visit: otisreddingfoundation.org.

Author: Otis Redding
Publisher: Akashic Books
Published: 10/06/2020
Pages: 24
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.65lbs
Size: 8.60h x 8.50w x 0.40d
ISBN: 9781617758447
Audience: Baby-Preschool


Review Citation(s):
Kirkus Reviews 09/01/2020

About the Author

Otis Redding (1941-1967) was a singer, songwriter, and producer often referred to as the King of Soul(TM). Known for releasing such acclaimed songs as "These Arms of Mine," "Try a Little Tenderness(TM)," "Hard to Handle," and "(Sittin' on) The Dock of the Bay," Redding is considered to be one of the most influential singers and songwriters of all time. He received two GRAMMYs as well as a GRAMMY Lifetime Achievement Award, and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame. To learn more, visit: otisredding.com.

Rachel Moss (illustrator) is an illustrator in love with the bright colors and vibrant energy of the Caribbean. She was born in Jamaica and studied animation in England at the University for the Creative Arts. Moss now lives in Jamaica where she spends her days illustrating children's books such as African with song lyrics by Peter Tosh, I Am a Promise by Shelly Ann Fraser Pryce, Abigail's Glorious Hair, and Milo & Myra Learn Manners with Mr. Mongoose.