Explore Music
Set of 6 titles
People have sung notes, drummed out beats, and created musical instruments for thousands of years. Music in all its forms is an important part of human culture. This series introduces young readers to common types of instruments and musical groups, pointing out the unique features of each. Fun photos and illustrations will get readers excited to Explore Music! Features include a table of contents, fun facts, Making Connections questions, a glossary, and an index. QR Codes in the books give readers access to book-specific resources to further their learning.
SLJ Review of Explore Music
Each title in the series provides a basic understanding of instruments and how they are played. Opening with a table of contents, each title also features vocabulary words in bold and in a different color while describing instruments in short paragraphs accompanied by appropriate images. Back matter includes making connections with the text to self, text, and world, as well as a glossary, index, and QR code for extra activities. Throughout the text, “Did You Know?” fact bubbles are included, such as “The word ‘band’ comes from the French word ‘bande,’ which means ‘troop’ in English,” and labels on graphics explain how instruments look and techniques used to play an instrument, like standing with a bass in front of the body versus sitting down with a cello. Titles also include famous or noteworthy composers, conductors, or musicians important to the topic, such as cellist Yo-Yo Ma. While each title does not go into too much depth, the topics have sufficient coverage to spark curiosity. VERDICT A good overview of different types of instruments for beginning readers.