All summer, I’ll be sharing books for kids of all ages on topics that will interest them or offer them something new to learn about. Most of the time, these will be nonfiction books, but sometimes we can learn from fictional stories too. I believe reading over the summer is so important, and keeping kids interested in reading by finding books that are relevant and full of topics that they are interested in is very important. Kids should be reading at least 20 minutes every day, and I hope that these books offer you ideas to keep your kids reading and learning all summer.
Look for these posts every Friday. They will always have Summer Read-to-Learn in the title and the tags. There will be books from some of my favorite publishers as well as books on all kinds of topics kids love to read and learn about. Be sure to stop by each week to see what book I’m sharing as part of my Summer Read-to-Learn series.
To see all the books in the Summer Read-to-Learn series, click HERE.
AND THERE WAS MUSIC
By: Marta Pantaleo
Translated by: Debbie Bibo
Published: April 22, 2025
Publisher: Eerdmans Books for Young Readers
Non-Fiction
Music is a universal language. It crosses over cultures, languages, and generations. Music can soothe a broken heart, bring joy to an everyday moment, and take you back to a special memory.
“Music is a bridge that unites us.”
This book is a celebration of all kinds of music enjoyed all over the world. Each of the page spreads depicts a different style of music and/or instruments. The end of the book explains each of them from Irish Folk Music to a Harp to the Chinese Astronaut Wang Yaping playing the Chinese Zither in the Internation Space Station.
This book is suitable for a range of ages, thanks to the minimal text on the page for young children and the educational information provided at the back of the book for older kids. A great way to enhance the learning would be to listen to the various types of music on your favorite music app or take a trip to a local music store to learn more about the different types of instruments.
If you’ve ever heard a song on the radio that reminded you of a moment in time, such as a song you danced to at your high school prom, a hymn from a grandparent’s funeral, or the song from your wedding, then music is in your heart. Sharing those special musical moments with your child will help them notice and develop a love for music as well.
Marta Pantaleo is an Italian illustrator and author. Her work has been exhibited in Italy, South Korea, China, and the United States. Born in Rome, she still lives and creates art in the city today. Visit her website, HERE.
Click HERE to purchase a copy of AND THERE WAS MUSIC
A great summer project for your child is learning to play the Ukulele
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Thanks to the publisher for sending a copy of this book for this review. This review is my honest opinion. If you choose to purchase through the above links, I may receive a small commission without you having to pay a cent more for your purchase.
Posted Under Book Review, Children's books, Marta Pantaleo, Music, Summer Read-to-Learn, non-fiction