Music is a universal language that brings together people of all cultures and ages. Our littlest ones have an instinctive receptivity to simple tunes, and older children can explore their feelings and express their souls through songs. These stories capture some of the power of music for kids.
In these divided times, there’s one thing we can all agree on: Everyone loves Dolly Parton! In this gem, her most kid-centric song — which tells a story from her own childhood in rural Tennessee — gets a warm picture-book treatment, followed by a personal plea from Dolly to end bullying at schools.
Ages 3–8 • $17.99
Each line from the famous Sesame Street theme song is paired with a different illustrator’s intricate, gorgeous image, each of which uniquely imparts the multicultural, multigenerational joy of community that the show has spread throughout the world for 50 years.
Ages 4–8 • $17.99
Music can provide an ideal outlet for kids who like being “different,” like the young protagonist of this uniquely illustrated book. But wanting to be different doesn’t mean wanting to be lonely. Luckily, you can form a band!
Ages 5–8 • $17.99
Little Hana Hashimoto loves playing her violin. Unfortunately, no one loves hearing her play it. But she keeps at it, and eventually invents her own style of music, based on the sounds around her, that brings encore after encore.
Ages 5–8 • $17.99
This autobiography paints a heartwarming portrait of a New Orleans boy who becomes obsessed with playing an instrument larger than he is. The pictures at the end of tiny Troy playing in a Treme parade and in front of Bo Diddley make for a perfect epilogue.
Ages 4–8 • $17.95
Hosea Taylor was a street musician in Rochester, New York, who created a loving community through both his tunes and his generosity. Reading about a typical day in his life may reaffirm your faith in humanity.
Ages 3–9 • $16.95
