Learn to Speak Music

Crossingham, a member of the band Broken Social Scene, suggests that music just might be the universal language, and in this volume he urges kids to create, record and perform songs. He starts with the fundamentals (explaining pitch, rhythm, melody and other components), offers gentle encouragement (“Learning to play an instrument is like making a new friend—it's a little awkward at first”) and covers forming a band, songwriting and performing. Kulak's images fuse seamlessly with Crossingham's soft-spoken style and, though they have a '60s graphic-design flair, the effect suggests modern hipster rather than true retro. Kids won't actually learn how to read or play music from this book, but it might provide impetus to learn. Ages 9–13. (Oct.)