Looking to add to your elementary collection? Here are some great books about music and sound.
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đź“š Picture Books & Stories About Music
These can serve as read-alouds or inspiration for a musical maker space day.
- Zin! Zin! Zin! A Violin by Lloyd Moss – https://amzn.to/3Z2aao8
A rhyming, energetic introduction to musical instruments and orchestras—great for engaging younger students. - Ada’s Violin: The Story of the Recycled Orchestra of Paraguay by Susan Hood – https://amzn.to/3GIe13w
A true story of how children in Paraguay turned trash into instruments. Perfect for showing how creativity and recycling go hand-in-hand—just like your DIY projects. - The Remarkable Farkle McBride by John Lithgow – https://amzn.to/3YzmdJz
A whimsical story about a child who tries every instrument before discovering his love of conducting. - Max Found Two Sticks by Brian Pinkney – https://amzn.to/4m71mr2
Max explores the sounds of the world around him with two sticks—an ideal connection to your drum-making station.
🔍 Nonfiction Books About Sound and Instruments
Perfect for research or to add a STEAM component.
- Sound: Loud, Soft, High, and Low by Natalie M. Rosinsky – https://amzn.to/4mcUiJB
A clear, accessible introduction to how sound works for younger readers. - I See a Song by Eric Carle – https://amzn.to/4iT6ZX1
A wordless book that invites students to imagine the music behind the illustrations—perfect for sparking creative play. - The Science of Sound: Projects and Experiments with Music and Sound Waves by Steve Parker – https://amzn.to/4369nDV
Ideal for upper elementary students. Includes hands-on projects that tie into your maker space. - Music Everywhere! by Maya Ajmera – https://amzn.to/3F0NXA1
A global look at how children make music around the world—great for a multicultural perspective.
đź“Ś Librarian Tip
You could even create a book + build station: display one of these books alongside a bin of materials for the matching instrument (e.g., “Read Max Found Two Sticks, then make your own drum!”). This turns the activity into an independent literacy-and-maker station.
Read more Bibliography and Book List posts.
Check out my lists on Benable
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