Children's books and activities
Music and Musicians
Many kids love to sing, write songs, play music, and even create their own homemade instruments. And some children are curious about the lives of famous singers, songwriters, and musicians. We've gathered up a great collection of books, activities, apps, and websites for learning all about music and musicians.
Try pairing fiction with nonfiction books and exploring different genres (like poetry and biographies) and formats (like graphic novels and audio books). You'll be creating your own "text sets" — collections of texts focused on a specific topic, such as music and musicians. Reading widely in this way helps children build background knowledge, vocabulary, and comprehension skills.
You might also want to explore our free toolkit: Tune In!

Great Fiction & Nonfiction Books
Age Level: 3-6 years old


"Honk-honk, tweet-tweet, patter-patter!" This sweet, fun read-aloud drums up nostalgia for all the rhythms, noises, and dreams of the city. On their way to the farmers market, a mother and daughter duo appreciate street musicians: a saxophone next to their apartment building ("toot-a-toot swoosh,") a drummer in the subway ("boom-bam-boom-boom"), a flautist by the flower shop sounds like butterfly wings.
A Neighborhood Walk, a Musical Journey
Age Level: 3-6 years old

The song made famous by jazz great Ella Fitzgerald in the 1930s has been re-created, re-energized and newly presented in a picture book version. Sprightly cut paper collage illustrations show two children losing and ultimately finding both a lost basket and a friendship.
A Tisket, a Tasket
Age Level: 3-6 years old

When the bats awaken from winter hibernation, not only do their stomachs grumble, they are hungry for music! The latest in this series presents the varied music interests of very likable (and rather human) bats.
Bats in the Band
Age Level: 3-6 years old

John's music began when he listened to the music in his childhood. Semi-abstract illustrations vivify sound-filled poetry, together introducing a boy who would grow up to become the great John Coltrane.
Before John Was a Jazz Giant: A Song of John Coltrane
Age Level: 3-6 years old

Ben wants to be a trumpeter, but he plays only an imaginary instrument until one of the musicians in a neighborhood nightclub discovers his ambition.
Ben's Trumpet
Age Level: 3-6 years old

Presents a rhythmic tribute to Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie and their creation of bebop.
Bird & Diz
Age Level: 3-6 years old

Inspired by jazz great Charlie Parker, rhythm and repetition are woven together to create a musical effect. Animated watercolors and lively text combine in a story that begs to be read aloud.
Charlie Parker Played Be Bop
Age Level: 3-6 years old

When Duck reads about an upcoming talent show at the county fair, he organizes the animals on Farmer Brown's farm into nightly rehearsals. On Saturday evening, suspecting that the animals are up to something and reluctant to leave them alone for long, the farmer loads them all into the back of his pickup. They sneak off to the contest and wow the judges with stellar performances such as Duck's "QUACK, QUACK, QUACK, QUUAAAAAACKK" ("Born to Be Wild").
Dooby Dooby Moo
Age Level: 3-6 years old

A young boy begins banging on pots and pans in his front yard, enticing other children to join him, and before long the entire city is feeling the best.
Drum City
Age Level: 3-6 years old

One summer day, as Little Worm heads out to play, he discovers he has a song stuck in his head. “What’s that you’re singing?” Owl asks, but Little Worm can’t say. He wriggles past, determined to learn who filled his head with “Shimmy shimmy, no-sashay.” Owl flaps along with a song of his own, and before long Chipmunk, Bunny, and Fox fall in line, each contributing an ear worm to the joyful cacophony.
Ear Worm!
Age Level: 3-6 years old

Meet Juan García Esquivel whose contributions to music can still be heard. From his early days in Mexico, Juan experimented to find just the right sounds for his music. Additional information and a photograph of Juan are included at the end of this lively picture book biography done in Tonatiuh’s signature style.
Esquivel! Space-Age Sound Artist
Age Level: 3-6 years old

In this illustrated version of Bob Marley's song, a young boy, with the encouragement of three little birds, enjoys life and will not let anything get him down.
Every Little Thing
Age Level: 3-6 years old

Since it first appeared on the 1974 album Planet Waves, "Forever Young" has been one of Bob Dylan's most beloved songs. Now award-winning artist Paul Rogers gives us a new interpretation of the lyrics. With images inspired by classic Dylan songs and pieces of his life, this is a bold and touching tribute to an anthem whose message will always stay forever young.
Forever Young
Age Level: 3-6 years old

Long before there was a band, there was a boy: a young Keith Richards, who was introduced to the joy of music through his beloved granddad, Theodore Augustus Dupree, affectionately known as "Gus," who was in a jazz big band and is the namesake of Keith's daughter, Theodora Dupree Richards. Gus & Me offers a rare and intimate look into the childhood of the legendary Keith Richards through this poignant and inspiring story.
Gus and Me: The Story of My Granddad and My First Guitar
Age Level: 3-6 years old

A cool cat named Oobie-Do moves to San Francisco, plays his saxophone and works as a short order cook, until his jazzy talents are recognized by nightclub owner Minnie, who books him for a gig. The bold, stylized illustrations are a cool complement to the rhythmic language of this off beat(nik!) tale.
Hip Cat
Age Level: 3-6 years old

A mutt tells reveals a "doggy allegory" and how he went from "the saddest and the baddest" to being a hip hop dog. Jazzy language swirls around and with fresh, loose art to create a sense of music in many forms. While rappers may just call it 'freestyle,' this zippy book is howling good fun.
Hip Hop Dog
Age Level: 3-6 years old

On a sunny day, a child and her mother go for a walk in the park. The rhythm the girl hears in her head is all around, bringing an entire community together. Infectious language repeats (SNAP SNAP; STOMP STOMP), accompanied by full-color double- page spreads that will surely be read – and voiced – many times.
I Got the Rhythm
Age Level: 3-6 years old

Baby and his family make some jazzy music.
Jazz Baby
Age Level: 3-6 years old

Kenya is looking for a favorite song to share with her class. She and her father attend a Caribbean music festival in search of it — but Kenya doesn't find it there. Instead, she creates an original song that celebrates everyone's music! Realistic illustrations suggest Kenya's glimpse into other cultures and her own creativity.
Kenya's Song
Age Level: 3-6 years old

Three well known spirituals, "This Little Light of Mine," "When the Saints Go Marching In," and "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands," have been interpreted in vivid, jewel-toned illustrations and presented in a large format for a new generation. A bit of information about the songs' history as well as musical notation for each are included.
Let It Shine: Three Favorite Spirituals
Age Level: 3-6 years old

From the tinkling tones of the tiny piccolo to the majesty of the grand piano or the deep rumblings of the mighty tuba this book celebrates the sounds made by the players in the orchestra.
Let's Play!
Age Level: 3-6 years old

Little Pig has trouble keeping up with his older--and bigger--brothers and sisters. When they get out Grandpa's old marching-band instruments, Little Pig is too little to play any of them. But when the disorganized band has a pig-pile mishap, Little Pig has a BIG idea: They could use a leader.
Little Pig Joins the Band
Age Level: 3-6 years old

A picture-book biography of Sister Rosetta Tharpe, the woman who invented rock and roll — a warm, inspiring tale of a childhood filled with music, community, and a drive to succeed. “Music is the heart of our story” says Momma to young Rosetta, surprising her with her first guitar. Rosetta‘s strums sound like ker-plunks. But with practice and determination, she makes music, fingers hopping “like corn in a kettle,” notes pouring over the church crowd “like summer rain washing the dust off a new day.”
Little Rosetta and the Talking Guitar: The Musical Story of Sister Rosetta Tharpe, the Woman Who Invented Rock and Roll
Age Level: 3-6 years old

A praying mantis who longs to make music gets help from a spider name Debby Webster.
Manuelo, the Playing Mantis
Age Level: 3-6 years old

Feeling that something is missing in his simple life, Mole acquires a violin and learns to make beautiful, joyful music.
Mole Music
Age Level: 3-6 years old

When Rosa's grandmother becomes sick, Rosa comes up with an idea that not only makes Grandma feel better, it helps add coins to the family's near empty money jar. Translucent watercolors illustrate this timeless, affectionate tale of family, community and the power of music.
Music, Music for Everyone
Age Level: 3-6 years old

Describes instruments, their parts, the different types, and how they are played.
Musical Instruments Series
Age Level: 3-6 years old

When Olivia learns that there will be no band at the evening's fireworks display, she decides to form one of her own, with herself as the only musician and some rather unusual instruments.
Olivia Forms a Band
Age Level: 3-6 years old

In this illustrated version of Bob Marley's song, a young girl enlists her friends, family, and community to transform their neighborhood for the better.
One Love
Age Level: 3-6 years old

Retells the orchestral fairy tale in which a boy ignores his grandfather's warnings and captures a wold with the help of a bird, a duck, and a cat.
Peter and the Wolf
Age Level: 3-6 years old

The story of young Art Tatum, who became one of the all-time greats of jazz.
Piano Starts Here: The Young Art Tatum
Age Level: 3-6 years old

At the end of the day, while Farmer Joe gets ready for bed, his animals tune their instruments to perform in a big concert as a rock band called Punk Farm.
Punk Farm
Age Level: 3-6 years old

Despite Grandfather's warning about wolves in the forest, Peter and his animal friends capture one. The accompanying CD tells this traditional tale through music.
Sergei Prokofiev's Peter and the Wolf
Age Level: 3-6 years old

Recounts the author's childhood determination to emulate Elvis Presley after being inspired by the iconic artists' music, describing how he drove his mother crazy while perfecting his Elvis-style dancing and singing before performing in a talent show.
Shake, Rattle & Turn That Noise Down!
Age Level: 3-6 years old

Even though the green-spotted snake wanders into the wrong pit – an orchestra pit – he takes the time to explore, noting that the tuba is roomy and the trombone is quite long. Rib-tickling illustrations reveal a different tale until the small snake returns to the right pit.
The Orchestra Pit
Age Level: 3-6 years old

Presents an introduction to jazz music and nine well-known jazz musicians, set to the rhythm of "This Old Man." Includes brief facts about each musicians.
This Jazz Man
Age Level: 3-6 years old

Guthrie's folk song begins a journey across the United States. Highly detailed, richly colored illustrations done in folk art style encourage readers to follow Woodie as he travels from coast to coast. A concluding note by Pete Seeger is informative, putting the period and person into an historical context.
This Land is Your Land
Age Level: 3-6 years old

Tito Puente, Mambo King
Age Level: 3-6 years old

Join a boy as he takes you uptown to introduce his Harlem home, filled with excitement, sounds, and verve. Illustrations use watercolor and collage to present a vibrant, music-filled place sure to please.
Uptown
Age Level: 3-6 years old

Marian Anderson was an extraordinary contralto whose talent was celebrated in Europe long before she was recognized in her native United States. Anderson's focus, musical talent, and the difficult times in which she lived are captured in a dramatic picture book biography.
When Marian Sang: The True Recital of Marian Anderson
Age Level: 3-6 years old

An introductory biography of famous folk singer Woody Guthrie presented as a picture book with a brief lyrical text and woodcut-like illustrations.
Woody Guthrie: Poet of the People
Age Level: 3-6 years old
Age Level: 6-9 years old


Ella Sheppard was one of the original Jubilee Singers from what is now known as Fisk University. This is a touching story, told by Ella's great-great-granddaughter, accompanied by gentle, poignant illustrations.
A Band of Angels
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Jack and Annie go to New Orleans on All Saint's Day in 1915 to find a young musician named Louis Armstrong. Music, mystery, and ghosts combine for another riveting quest for the sibling adventurers.
A Good Night for Ghosts
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Louise Bennett Coverley, better known as Miss Lou, was a Jamaican poet and entertainer who used patois (the dialect of the common people) in her music and poetry and influenced other arrtists like Harry Belafonte and Bob Marley to use patois in their music. This picture book tells the story of Miss Lou’s early years, when she was a young girl growing up in Jamaica.
A Likkle Miss Lou: How Jamaican Poet Louise Bennett Coverley Found Her Voice
Age Level: 6-9 years old

When a jazz-loving rooster sets his sights on winning a barnyard talent show, he realizes he can't do it as a solo act. He's up against the talents of Mules Davis's cool duo and Ella Finchgerald's singing group. Acoustic Rooster calls on friends like pianist Duck Ellington, singer Bee Holiday, and percussionist piggy Pepe Ernesto Cruz. Together, the foursome makes beautiful music as they rock the barnyard. And while they may not win first prize, Acoustic Rooster realizes he has the world's best jazz band and that's all that matters.
Acoustic Rooster and His Barnyard Band
Age Level: 6-9 years old

A town built on a landfill. A community in need of hope. A girl with a dream. A man with a vision. An ingenious idea.
Ada’s Violin: The Story of the Recycled Orchestra of Paraguay
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Owen’s singing, banjo-playing Granny goes out “to cross one river, one mountain, and a desert” just to see her bluegrass-loving grandbaby. Lilting, rhythmic language and evocative illustrations carry the reader all the way to the musical reunion of Granny and Owen.
Banjo Granny
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Elementary school-age boys start at the beginning of the school year to study with Pamela at the National Dance Institute of New Mexico. By the end of the year, some will perform “Treasure Island,” others will perform Mexican folktales. All in all, over 20 dances lead up to the grand finale. Dancing is hard work but lots of fun, too, chronicled in this photoessay.
Boys Dancing: From School Gym to Theater Stage
Age Level: 6-9 years old

This is the classic tale of four beleaguered animals—a donkey who can no longer work, a hound who can no longer hunt, a cat who’s too old to chase mice, and a rooster who’s scheduled to become dinner—who decide to run off to be musicians in the town of Bremen. But they get more than they bargained for when they stumble upon a frightful gang of robbers.
Bremen Town Musician
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Introduces children to music through works of art. Pictures set the scene for the music, and each image is accompanied by a CD track number as well as guided questions.
Can You Hear It?
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Celia Cruz began singing on the streets of Havana as a child. She grew up to become a legendary singer and lasting influence on salsa. Bright, bold illustrations echo the vibrancy of the music in this handsome picture book biography.
Celia Cruz: Queen of Salsa
Age Level: 6-9 years old

As a young girl leads a cast of characters on a musical journey, they learn that they have the power to make changes — big or small — in the world, in their communities, and in most importantly, in themselves.
Change Sings: A Children's Anthem
Age Level: 6-9 years old

The story of Blind Willie Johnson — the legendary Texas musician whose song "Dark Was the Night" was included on the Voyager I space probe's Golden Record. There, along with the many sounds and sights of planet Earth, is the stirring song of a blind man, telling us not to be afraid of the dark, and reminding us that we are never really alone.
Dark Was the Night: Blind Willie Johnson's Journey to the Stars
Age Level: 6-9 years old

John Birks Gillespie was an angry child from an abusive home. He was able to overcome huge obstacles when given a trumpet to channel his anger and begin the journey to jazz. 'Dizzy' Gillespie's story is told in swirling images and rhythmic language, telling the story of how music inspired him and how he used his talents to inspire others.
Dizzy
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Born into a poor Roma family, Django Reinhardt's musical talent takes him to perform on European stages for appreciative audiences. Here, the basics of his life are presented in vibrant, expressive paintings and a poetic text. An author's note encourages finding out more about this little known musician.
Django: World's Greatest Jazz Guitarist
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Follows a girl in the 1920s as she strives to become a drummer, despite being continually reminded that only boys play the drums and that there had never been a female drummer in Cuba. Includes a note about Millo Castro Zaldarriaga, who inspired the story, and Anacaona, the all-girl dance band she formed with her sisters.
Drum Dream Girl: One Girl's Courage Changed Music
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Duke Ellington's collaboration with a classically trained colleague resulting in unique rendition of the 'Nutcracker Suite' comes to life in jazzy text and illustrations; a CD is included.
Duke Ellington's Nutcracker Suite
Age Level: 6-9 years old

A fictionalized account of how an 11-year-old girl, Elizabeth "Libba" Cotten, saved to buy her first guitar and composed the popular folk song "Freight Train."
Elizabeth's Song
Age Level: 6-9 years old

From her early days in Harlem to becoming the First Lady of Jazz, the story of Ella Fitzgerald is presented by a cool feline named Scat Cat Monroe. As Scat Cat steals through the pages of this book, Ella Fitzgerald's life and work are revealed in jazz-inspired language accompanied by dramatic scratchboard illustrations. The result is a lively and loving picture book biography.
Ella Fitzgerald: The Tale of a Vocal Virtuosa
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Handsome illustrations of Shange's evocative poem, "Mood Indigo," pay homage to the many African American icons and visionaries who came to the author's house when she was a child. From W.E.B. DuBois to Duke Ellington, the people we now know as luminaries are seen from the perspective of a young girl. This book is sure to generate discussion.
Ellington Was Not a Street
Age Level: 6-9 years old

A picture-book biography of a poor kid from Tupelo, Mississippi, who became an American musical legend.
Elvis: The Story of the Rock and Roll King
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Meet Juan García Esquivel whose contributions to music can still be heard. From his early days in Mexico, Juan experimented to find just the right sounds for his music. Additional information and a photograph of Juan are included at the end of this lively picture book biography done in Tonatiuh’s signature style.
Esquivel! Space-Age Sound Artist
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Through paintings and text, this book traces the history and rise in popularity of the Beatles.
Fab Four Friends
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Reyna accidentally breaks her abuelo’s vihuela and tries to fix it before her family finds out. Told in both Spanish and English, young readers will recognize the girl’s predicament and revel in the resolution in this realistically illustrated tale.
Finding the Music/En pos de la musica
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Drasko is Milo’s son who carries on his father’s flower business even after things in Sarajevo change seemingly overnight. Milo is called to the battlefield. A blast kills people in line at the bakery. Only the power of beauty through music brings hope. Based on actual events, this moving story is one of faith in spite of hatred and violence. A CD read by the author provides additional information about the event and includes the music played by cellist Vedrun Smailovic.
Flowers for Sarajevo
Age Level: 6-9 years old

The life of Wolfgang’s older sister, Maria Anna, follows the form of a piano sonata which combines with evocative illustration to portray the 18th century musicians and their music.
For the Love of Music: The Remarkable Story of Maria Anna Mozart
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Join the rhythmic countdown to Sunday afternoon, the one time when enslaved Africans in 19th century Louisiana could relax in what became known as New Orleans’ Congo Square. Vibrant paintings, reminiscent of Jacob Lawrence, further enliven the portrait of people as they toiled daily, culminating on Sunday. An introduction provides historical insight and perspective of this little known part of American history.
Freedom in Congo Square
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Inspired by memories of the time she spent in Japan with her grandfather, a professional violinist. Hana Hashimoto has signed up to play her violin at her school's talent show. The trouble is, she's only a beginner, and she's had only three lessons. Will her confidence waver on the night of the show?
Hana Hashimoto, Sixth Violin
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Experienced readers will enjoy this stunning and sophisticated visit to Harlem in word and image. Landmarks like the Cotton Club and the Apollo Theater are included and invite discussion.
Harlem
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Lonnie travels back in time to meet many of the artists, writers, and musicians of the Harlem Renaissance. During this rich time, African American culture was reinvigorated. Illustrations are boldly colored acrylic paintings, and additional information is included at the end.
Harlem Renaissance Party
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Harlem's Little Blackbird: The Story of Florence Mills
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Jelly Roll Morton became – to his grandmother’s horror – a musician in New Orleans, developing his own unique style of jazz. Rhythmic, rhyming language and swirling, color-saturated illustrations glimpse the life and work of this little-known musician, perhaps inspiring readers to take a longer look at the artist and his work.
How Jelly Roll Morton Invented Jazz
Age Level: 6-9 years old

An adaptation of the folk rhyme "There Was an Old Woman Who Swallowed a Fly," featuring musical instruments.
I Know a Shy Fellow Who Swallowed a Cello
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Third-grader, Jasmine Toguchi, wants to enter her school’s talent show, but what talent could she show? She knows though when she’s introduced to the traditional Japanese drums where Jasmine finds a skill – and a friend. Young readers will see themselves in Jasmine and her recognizable travails.
Jasmine Toguchi, Drummer Girl
Age Level: 6-9 years old

John Coltrane's musical composition is performed by a box, a snowflake, some raindrops, and a kitten.
John Coltrane's Giant Steps
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Moshe Cotel was a composer who lived in a noisy building on a noisy street in a noisy city. But Moshe didn’t mind. Everything he heard was music to his ears. One day, while out for a walk, he heard a small, sad sound that he’d never heard before. It was a tiny kitten! “Come on, little Ketzel,” Moshe said, “I will take you home and we will make beautiful music together.”
Ketzel, the Cat Who Composed
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Born in the Mississippi Delta in 1927, the always musically gifted Mary Violet Leontyne Price would grow up to be the first African American to star at LaScala in Italy. Evocative illustrations swirl with poetic text to bring this star to life. Leontyne was preceded and may have been inspired by Marian Anderson, so this book pairs well with When Marian Sang: The True Recital of Marian Anderson.
Leontyne Price: Voice of a Century
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Elizabeth "Libba" Cotton heard music all around her growing up in North Carolina. She became a self-taught guitarist using her brother’s instrument until he moved. Her musical talent remained hidden until it was uncovered after she started working for Pete Seeger. Libba’s story is told effectively with swirling text and soft illustrations in a limited palette.
Libba: The Magnificent Musical Life of Elizabeth Cotton
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Provides an introduction to classical music, describing how birds have inspired composers throughout history, and includes a musical glossary and short biographies of the composers.
Listen to the Birds: An Introduction to Classical Music
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Melba Doretta Liston loved the sounds of music from as far back as she could remember. Overcoming obstacles of race and gender, Melba went on to become a famed trombone player and arranger, spinning rhythms, harmonies, and melodies into gorgeous songs for all the jazz greats of the twentieth century like Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Billie Holiday, and Quincy Jones.
Little Melba and Her Big Trombone
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Little Rat wants to be musical and play an instrument just as do the other members of her family. But playing the violin well takes a great deal of practice, as Little Rat learns. Illustrations are richly hued and subtly add humor in addition to a gentle reminder.
Little Rat Makes Music
Age Level: 6-9 years old

The alphabet is used as a device to introduce the vocabulary for a range of musical styles as well as the names of famous musicians. Jaunty illustrations combine with energetic language for an intriguing glimpse into music and musicians.
M Is for Music
Age Level: 6-9 years old

This brief, broad introduction to gospel great, Mahalia Jackson, is sure to inform as well as arouse curiosity about her music and the times in which she lived. Happily, lots of audio exists to complement the richly illustrated glimpse of a fascinating woman.
Mahalia Jackson: Walking with Kings and Queens
Age Level: 6-9 years old

It was a day when Max didn't feel like talking to anyone. He just sat on his front steps and watched the could gather in the ski. A strong breeze shook the tree in from of his house, and Max saw two heavy twigs fall to the ground. So beings this story of a young boy's introduction to the joys of making music. Max picks up the sticks and begins tapping out the rhythms of everything he sees and hears around him.
Max Found Two Sticks
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Moses and his schoolmates, all deaf, attend a concert where the orchestra's percussionist is also deaf. Includes illustrations in sign language and a page showing the manual alphabet.
Moses Goes to a Concert
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Mr. Putter's neighbor, Mrs. Teaberry, decides that they should join a band, but finding the right one isn’t as easy as it sounds — for them or their pets. Mr. Putter’s everyday adventures continue In other books in the series such as Mr. Putter and Tabby Paints the Porch; here the help Mr. Putter gets from his animal friends makes painting his front porch a challenge.
Mr. Putter and Tabby Toot the Horn
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Harriet just wants to play her cello alone. But when she accidentally knocks the lonely moon from his heavenly perch, she learns to share her cello-playing with him. Both find friendship in this delicately illustrated, whimsical tale that presents a moon and one friend with particular personalities.
Music for Mr. Moon
Age Level: 6-9 years old

My Name Is Celia/Me llamo Celia
Age Level: 6-9 years old

The life and music of Odetta who became an influential folksinger and civil rights activist is revealed in lyrical, rhythmic language and evocative, swirling illustration. An affectionate afterword by the author provides factual information about the person and her influence.
Odetta: The Queen of Folk
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Henkes' first easy reader introduces Penny and her mouse family in two appealing chapters. Penny must wait to share her original song until after dinner. When she does, not only do her parents join in, the babies respond in a surprising way. Henkes' signature illustrations expressively complement the well-paced narrative.
Penny and Her Song
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Art Tatum came from modest beginnings and was nearly blind, but his passion for the piano and his acute memory for any sound that he heard drove him to become a virtuoso who was revered by both classical and jazz pianists alike. Simple, lyrical storytelling and colorful, energetic ink-and-wash illustrations to show the world as young Tatum might have seen it.
Piano Starts Here: The Young Art Tatum
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was not only a famous composer and a musical genius; his father turned him into a child sensation! Limited language but rich, detailed, and varied illustrations introduce the essence of the boy and his music.
Play, Mozart, Play!
Age Level: 6-9 years old

A picture book biography of the life, career, and impact of 20th-century blues and gospel singer Sister Rosetta Tharpe, who was a trailblazer for rock-and-roll. The godmother of rock & roll started as a little girl from Arkansas with music in her air, in her hair, in her bones, wiggling her toes. Includes a timeline of Sister Rosetta Tharpe’s life, author’s note, and a list of sources.
Rock, Rosetta, Rock! Roll, Rosetta, Roll! Presenting Sister Rosetta Tharpe, the Godmother of Rock & Roll
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Beneath a large cabaret theater lived a huge family of roly-polies. The cabaret was open at night, and it welcomed the greatest stars of the moment, who got together to sing and dance to the rhythm of the music. Each member of the family had a special talent: one sang like angels, another preferred to dance and create the best choreographies ... they all had their role in the show.
Roly-Polies
Age Level: 6-9 years old

A familiar traditional Shaker hymn has been interpreted in bold, semi-abstract, jewel-toned illustrations reminiscent of artist Paul Klee. A cat, squirrel, bird, and turtle characters create the feel of the music.
Simple Gifts
Age Level: 6-9 years old

From a poor girl who had "a dancing beat in her feet ever since she was a bitty girl" to when she finally got a chance to perform with a professional band, Ella Fitzgerald set the world of music on its ear. Her early life is presented in energetic, downright jazzy text and richly hued illustrations.
Skit-Scat Raggedy Cat: Ella Fitzgerald
Age Level: 6-9 years old

A young girl, filled with the sounds of her beloved city, shares a song with her grandmother that changes the two forever. After helping Grandma realize that the city makes music as beautiful as the sounds they hear in church on Sunday morning, the two sit down and take in all the sounds of the city ... together.
Song in the City
Age Level: 6-9 years old

CJ's uncle, a well known jazz musician, has lost his signature hat and sends the boy out to locate it. CJ searches Harlem finding something better than the beret for the magazine photographer to snap. Animated illustrations and an author's note take a memorable look at Harlem and musicians of the mid 1950s.
Sweet Music in Harlem
Age Level: 6-9 years old

The story of a group of African American orphans who played in their school's all-girl swing band and, after leaving school, made it to the big time.
Swing Sisters: The Story of the International Sweethearts of Rhythm
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Encourages the reader, through practical advice, to support his or her buffalo's desire to play the drums, even if he had quickly lost interest in other activities in the past.
Teach Your Buffalo to Play Drums
Age Level: 6-9 years old

A group of young men from Liverpool changed the world of music and they enjoyed a good laugh — often on themselves. The Fab Four and their humor are presented in appealing stylized illustrations and a lighthearted narrative well suited to the material presented.
The Beatles Were Fab (and They Were Funny)
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Debbie is taking piano lessons and makes a cardboard piano for her friend Tina. But when Tina returns the piano, Debbie questions everything about her friend.
The Cardboard Piano
Age Level: 6-9 years old

New poems, many rhyming, describe the animals introduced in Saint-Saens' orchestral music that was first performed in the 19th century. Semi-abstract illustrations accompany the verse. The book includes a music CD to bring the carnival of animals to life for a new generation.
The Carnival of the Animals
Age Level: 6-9 years old

An inspector seeks to solve a murder mystery at the symphony by questioning each of the musical instruments.
The Composer Is Dead
Age Level: 6-9 years old

An inspector seeks to solve a murder mystery at the symphony by questioning each of the musical instruments.
The Deaf Musicians
Age Level: 6-9 years old

When a name is given to an adult, it is often given based on the life that person has lived. The name is a statement about the person he or she has become. This is the story of a young man given the name Dancing Raven. He was a dancer - the best from all the nations. But the other men and boys in his village don't appreciate Dancing Raven's talent - hunting, fishing and tracking are the truly important talents. Dancing Raven must prove to his village the importance of his song.
The First Flute
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Pete Seeger was a musician, an activist, an environmentalist and more. An overview of his life and work is presented as though a ballad-like narrative almost ready to be sung. Strong, clean lines in black and white with a “golden thread” running through are created by cut paper illustrations for a powerful introduction to Seeger’s life and times.
The Golden Thread: A Song for Pete Seeger
Age Level: 6-9 years old

A child prodigy at the piano sprinkles her music with a little jazz. Includes an afterword about the life of the 20th-century jazz musician Mary Lou Williams.
The Little Piano Girl
Age Level: 6-9 years old

A young girl's love for music leads her to a job in the home of an older woman who teaches her not only to play the piano but also to care for others.
The Piano
Age Level: 6-9 years old

An absurd but satisfying fantasy based on Eudora Welty's only children’s work, is presented in lively music and narration.
The Shoe Bird
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Troy Andrews grew up in a New Orleans family of musicians so it’s not surprising that he, too, grew up playing the trombone and singing. His lively narration is rhythmic, sprinkled with colloquialism and enhanced by collage and paint illustrations.
Trombone Shorty
Age Level: 6-9 years old

While walking through the woods on his way to his tuba lesson, a boy becomes sidetracked by all the animals that want to hear him play
Tuba Lessons
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Hayley has finally found her talent: playing ukelele like her great-aunt Ruby, who traveled all over with her band, the Ragtime Rascals. She's so enthusiastic that she gets a ukelele band started at school with the new music teacher. Just as the band is getting popular, horrible new comes: the music program and the teacher are being cut. Hayley has a bold idea to help ensure that the school board members change their mind. If only it works...
Ukulele Hayley
Age Level: 6-9 years old

This picture-book biography follows a young Bob Zimmerman as he renames himself after his favorite poet and leaves his mining town to pursue his love of music in New York City. There he meets his folk music hero, Woody Guthrie, changing his life forever.
When Bob Met Woody: The Story of the Young Bob Dylan
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Belle goes with her talented grandmother on a singing tour during a time of racial segregation in the south in the 1950s. Grandmama decides to continue performing up north "where things were a little easier for black people." Realistic watercolors help define the setting.
When Grandmama Sings
Age Level: 6-9 years old

Stravinsky, a composer, and a dancer named Nijnsky each worked alone until they met. Their collaboration initially surprised Parisians but has become a classic. Meet the composer and choreographer who created "The Rite of Spring" in evocative, swirling text and image.
When Stravinsky Met Nijinsky
Age Level: 6-9 years old

From his early childhood in Jamaica, Clive loved all types of music. When he was 13 years old, he moved to New York where his affinity for music blossomed. Ultimately Clive, now Cool Herc, achieved his dream of being surrounded by music as a DJ and started a new music form. Angular illustrations and informative back matter complete this portrait of music and a musician.
When the Beat Was Born: DJ Kool Herc and the Creation of Hip Hop
Age Level: 6-9 years old

A lyrical road trip through the Mississippi Delta, exploring the landmarks that shaped one of America’s most beloved musical traditions. One morning Bo Willie finds the doghouse empty and the gate wide open! Farmer Fred says Yellow Dog hit Highway 61 and started running. Aunt Jessie picks up Bo Willie in her pink Cadillac, and together they look for his missing puppy love. Their search leads them from juke joints to tamale stands to streets ringing with the music of B.B. King and Muddy Waters. Where, where did that Yellow Dog go?
Yellow Dog Blues
Age Level: 6-9 years old

When this book begins, the trombone is playing all by itself. But soon a trumpet makes a duet, a french horn a trio, and so on until the entire orchestra is assembled on stage. Written in elegant and rhythmic verse and illustrated with playful and flowing artwork, this unique counting book is the perfect introduction to musical groups.
Zin! Zin! Zin! A Violin
Age Level: 6-9 years old
Age Level: 9-12 years old


Bina’s first summer without her best friend, Austin, proves to be an emotional roller coaster. The one constant is her love of music, as she discovers vinyl, goes to her first rock show, and steadily practices electric guitar. The growing pains associated with shifting friendships and family relationships are explored in this graphic novel. [Nerdy Book Club]
All Summer Long
Age Level: 9-12 years old

Amina loves music, but stage fright and her conservative uncle’s disapproval hamper her performance. As she practices for a Quran recitation competition, she not only grows more confident but also discovers the natural musicality of religious chants and prayers. [Nerdy Book Club]
Amina's Voice
Age Level: 9-12 years old

Tatum, a 14-year-old clarinetist, competes with new student Michael for a spot in honor band, while trying to maintain her friendship and relationships.
Audition & Subtraction
Age Level: 9-12 years old

Nate Foster has big dreams. His whole life, he’s wanted to star in a Broadway show. But how is Nate supposed to make his dreams come true when he’s stuck in Jankburg, Pennsylvania? So he hops a bus to New York City to crash an audition for E.T.: The Musical.
Better Nate Than Ever
Age Level: 9-12 years old

Bullied at school, eighth-grader Apple, a Filipino American who loves the music of the Beatles, decides to change her life by learning how to play the guitar.
Blackbird Fly
Age Level: 9-12 years old

Rich paintings in limited colors convey the power of a people and a piece of their history. Done in the cadence of the Blues, this unique and powerful picture book inspired by the uniquely African American music and related experience is for older readers.
Blues Journey
Age Level: 9-12 years old

Clayton Byrd adores his grandfather, loves the jazz Cool Papa plays with the other bluesmen in the park; Clayton wants to be musician, too. But when Cool Papa Byrd dies suddenly, Clayton is overcome with grief. His mother who has never resolved her own childhood remains at arm’s length though his father attempts to reach the boy. Clayton tries to join the park bluesmen but instead finds a different kind of music with a gang of street kids in the New York subway. Likeable characters populate this fast-paced novel.
Clayton Byrd Goes Underground
Age Level: 9-12 years old

In a world where dreambenders manipulate dreams in order to remove emotions both negative and positive, Jeremy, an apprentice dreambender, discovers Callie's dreams of singing and wonders if there is more to life than security at any cost.
Dreambender
Age Level: 9-12 years old

A harmonica and a bit of magic link different children from different times.
Echo
Age Level: 9-12 years old

Misty Copeland, the African American Ballet Theater soloist, has an encouraging conversation with a young black aspiring ballerina: “darling child, don’t you know/you’re just where I started/let the sun shine on your face….” Stunning mixed media illustrations capture the movement of dance and emotions of hope.
Firebird
Age Level: 9-12 years old

Great American Mousical
Age Level: 9-12 years old

Two very different high school students discover a mutual appreciation for writing songs for the guitar. Tripp Broody has lost a lot; his father died and his best friend moved away and he doesn't really connect with people. In contrast, Lyla Marks is perfect. She gets good grades, her teachers love her, and she plays the cello beautifully. Forced to share a music practice room on alternating days at school, they start a pen-pal-like exchange daily that leads to a musical collaboration that promises to change both of their lives forever. Many chapters are structured as Tripp's and Lyla's...
Guitar Notes
Age Level: 9-12 years old

Provides information about music, instruments, and sound while offering step-by-step instructions on how to make musical instruments, including diddley bows, drums, and shakers.
High-Tech DIY Projects with Musical Instruments
Age Level: 9-12 years old

When Sam’s school music program goes under, and her parents can’t afford to buy her a drum kit of her own, she must ask herself: how far will she go to get one? This novel tackles economic and familial stress with a light touch. [Nerdy Book Club]
I Am Drums
Age Level: 9-12 years old

The books follow French horn player Holly Mead as she navigates middle school friendships and finding her place in the orchestra.
I Heart Band Series
Age Level: 9-12 years old

Experience the explosion of color and movement of jazz as you pulsate with its beat in a vibrant series of poems and paintings. This father-and-son team explores a variety of jazz forms in an unforgettable book. In 2008, the first Odyssey Award for distinguished children's/young adult audiobook was presented to this read-along title. This package brings together the illustrations of the book with the featu
Jazz
Age Level: 9-12 years old

In 1958, photographer Art Kane gathered up a who’s who of jazz musicians on a New York City street for what is now an iconic image of African American artists. Original poems accompanied by vivid paintings depict the period, the people, and more. Not only is the original photo included, so are short biographies of each of the musicians as well as additional resources sure to inspire further exploration.
Jazz Day: The Making of a Famous Photograph
Age Level: 9-12 years old

Josephine Baker’s life and struggles of this performer and activist comes to life.
Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker
Age Level: 9-12 years old

Julie Andrews' Collection of Poems, Songs, and Lullabies
Age Level: 9-12 years old

Learn to Speak Music helps young readers learn this universal language of music by revealing every nook and cranny of how it's made. Rather than just a guide to instruments and theory, it explores every aspect of the pop music world, from songwriting and artwork to promotion and setting up a practice space.
Learn to Speak Music
Age Level: 9-12 years old

Part memoir, part tribute, and all great storytelling. Music industry veterans Robbie Robertson, Jim Guerinot, Jared Levine, and Sebastian Robertson invite young readers to share with them in celebrating twenty-seven musical legends. Short profiles chronicle personal stories and achievements of extraordinarily talented artists whose innovations changed the landscape of music for generations to come. The writers never shy away from speaking about the difficult challenges these recording artists faced and the very human foibles that sometimes led to their tragic end.
Legends, Icons & Rebels: Music That Changed the World
Age Level: 9-12 years old

Pete Seeger lived a long life sharing his music and his convictions about equality with literally millions of people all over the world. He is presented here in well-researched, clearly documented and understandable language punctuated with photographs. Seeger’s life presents a glimpse at the history of the United States, ranging from Civil Rights to workers’ rights.
Let Your Voice Be Heard: The Life and Times of Pete Seeger
Age Level: 9-12 years old

Short, fresh and fun essays present a broad array of musicians and their music - from Bach to Guthrie to Joplin with lots in between. Unexpected information can be found in each informal entry along with caricatured portraits.
Lives of the Musicians: Good Times, Bad Times (and What the Neighbors Thought)
Age Level: 9-12 years old

For kids into music, this title cant be beat! From inspiring profiles of key Maker musicians, to learning the components of different musical instruments, readers will discover how music works in harmony with the Maker movement. Several maker projects give readers opportunities to build their own instruments.
Maker Projects for Kids Who Love Music
Age Level: 9-12 years old

Born in 1876 on the Yankton Sioux reservation in South Dakota, Zitkala-Ša willingly left her home at age eight to go to a boarding school in Indiana. But she soon found herself caught between two worlds―white and Native American. Zitkala-Ša found joy in music classes and when she graduated, she became a music teacher, composer, and performer. Zitkala-Ša found she could also "sing" to help her people by writing stories and giving speeches. As an adult, she worked as an activist for Native American rights, seeking to build a bridge between cultures.
Red Bird Sings: The Story of Zitkala-Ša, Native American Author, Musician, and Activist
Age Level: 9-12 years old

Listen to the “groove” as readers make their way through the history of Motown, the people who made and performed it, and the times in which it was performed. The history of Motown is inextricably tied to the history of African Americans in the U.S. and is presented here in vivacious narrative and extended by images of the time. Source notes and other back matter complete the riveting portra
Rhythm Ride: A Road Trip Through the Motown Sound
Age Level: 9-12 years old

Describes the orchestra and includes information on composers, instruments, and the conductor.
Story of the Orchestra : Listen While You Learn About the Instruments, the Music and the Composers Who Wrote the Music!
Age Level: 9-12 years old

When her “Super Mexican” mother drags her across the country, away from her father, what better way for Malú to rebel than by forming a punk band? Before long, however, she discovers her heritage and punk sensibility are compatible after all. [Nerdy Book Club]
The First Rule of Punk
Age Level: 9-12 years old

Her parents swept away by a catastrophic flood, Chandra finds solace in her mother's magic flute.
The Flute
Age Level: 9-12 years old

Illustrations in blues and grays combine with words to flow across the pages of this handsome look into the music and life of an American artist. Fully researched and creatively presented, this is a brief glimpse at the life and contributions of a musical great. Additional resources and an author’s note may inspire further exploration of the man.
The Music in George’s Head: George Gershwin Creates Rhapsody in Blue
Age Level: 9-12 years old

Hansen is a 10-year-old piano prodigy living in Rusty Nail, Minnesota. She's long exhausted the talents of the town's only piano teacher and seems destined to perform at church events and school assemblies until a mysterious Russian woman arrives in town.
The Rising Star of Rusty Nail
Age Level: 9-12 years old

Spurred by a special project from social studies teacher, seventh grader Bethesda Fielding uncovers the secret identity of her music teacher which leads to most unusual concert performance and a tutoring assignment.
The Secret Life of Ms. Finkleman
Age Level: 9-12 years old

Ten-year-old Cadence Mariah Jolley is surrounded by music. She inherited a beautiful voice from her mother, who left town to pursue her own dreams when Cadence was seven. She knows her voice is special, but must overcome her fear of the spotlight.
The Sweetest Sound
Age Level: 9-12 years old

A Newbery Honor book that accounts the life and musical career of the great African American vocalist, Marion Anderson, in the context of the history of civil rights in the United States.
The Voice That Challenged a Nation
Age Level: 9-12 years old

This entry in the popular "Who Was" series covers the background of rock and roll music that defined the genre.
What Is Rock and Roll?
Age Level: 9-12 years old
Hands-on Activities
Build on what you’re learning together through books with these family-friendly activities, experiments, and crafts.
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Exploratorium
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National Museum of American History
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Start with a Book
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Krokotak
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Exploratorium
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Start with a Book
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My Teaching Station
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Start with a Book
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Start with a Book
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Frugal Fun for Boys and Girls
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National Museum of American History
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National Museum of American History
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Start with a Book
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PBS KIDS
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National Museum of American History
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Reading Rockets
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Start with a Book
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PBS KIDS Cyberchase
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Pi’ikea
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PBS Parents
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Frugal Fun for Boys and Girls
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Start with a Book
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Start with a Book
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Premeditated Leftovers
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Exploratorium
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Start with a Book
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Babble Dabble Do
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Exploratorium
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PBS Parents
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Start with a Book
Summer Writing
Give kids a chance to flex their writing muscles all summer long. Try one of these prompts, selected from our writing contest archives and other literacy organizations.
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Inspired by Music: Holst’s “The Planets”
Start with a Book
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Write to Music
Start with a Book
Great Websites for Kids
Dive deeper into topics of interest with these media-rich and interactive sites.
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Brain Pop: Arts and Music
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Carnegie Hall: Music Educators Toolbox
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Chrome Music Lab
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Citizen DJ (Library of Congress)
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Dallas Symphony Orchestra for Kids
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Dallas Symphony Orchestra Teacher Guides
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Famous Artists and Musicians
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Instruments from Around the World
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Kennedy Center: A Parents’ Field Guide to the Symphony
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Kennedy Center: Arts Resources for Educators
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Listen: Making Sense of Sound
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Little Kids Rock
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Math Science Music
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Melody Street
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New York Philharmonic Education
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Perfect Pitch
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Rock Hall EDU
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San Francisco Symphony for Kids
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Science of Music
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Sing-Along Songs
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Smithsonian Folkways Recordings
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Smithsonian Groovin’ to Jazz
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Sounds of the Silk Road
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Summer Sounds: Insect Songs
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The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra
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WETA’s Take Note! Guide to Classical Music
Great Podcasts for Kids
Listen and learn with these podcasts especially for kids. These podcasts are free and easy to listen to from any device via Apple Podcasts or Stitcher — or from Listen Notes, a podcast search engine.
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A Scientific Songtacular
Wow in the World (NPR)
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Mary Farfisa's Outer Space Radio Theater
Jim Cheff
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Music! Marian Anderson, the Great Caruso and More!
The Past and the Curious
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Noodle Loaf
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Saturday Morning Cereal Bowl
WAWL Radio
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Song of the Singing Mouse
Wow in the World (NPR)
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Story Pirates
Story Pirates
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The Music Box
Louisville Public Media
Educational Apps
Educational apps recommended by Common Sense Media and other trusted reviewers.
More Themed Resources
Growing Readers Tip Sheets

Simple activities for parents and kids to do together to build reading, writing, and critical thinking skills. Read online or print the PDF.
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Meet the Author
Spoken word. Julie Andrews says that "everything about singing is about spoken word" and that it's all about the meaning of the lyrics for her. Andrews' daughter and co-author Emma Walton Hamilton agrees, saying that music is "all about story."
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Meet the Author
Bringing Celia Cruz to life on paper. Illustrator Rafael Lopez talks about how he used a poetic approach to express the vibrant personality of Cuban salsa singer Celia Cruz.
