With art by first-time illustrator Julia Mathew, The Knowing is an Ani DiFranco-style lullaby, inviting young readers to ponder the distinction between outer forms of identity and the inner light of consciousness. The lyrical text is designed to be read aloud or sung, and is paired with Mathew’s universal scenes of childhood, set in her family’s native India, and glowing with honesty and love. This book encapsulates ideas that DiFranco feels strongly about sharing with her own children and all children: the authority to respect the world around you with love and compassion, and the strength of individual power and collective responsibility.
“I always relish a new challenge and creative adventure in life. Making a book for young readers was one such. I’m hoping that young people will connect with the message I am sending out in this book- that underneath all the labels and social and cultural signifiers, we are spirit, we are love incarnate, we are one.” —Ani
"The Knowing," the song that accompanies the book, will be available on Righteous Babe Records on January 31. Pre-save the song here.