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PBJamz!
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Wherein we chat dancing, animals, music, picture books, and more. . .You know it's gonna be a good time when Rekha is "in the house". This book is so fun, and Rekha and I LOVE chatting books and music and teaching, so pull up a chair and find out more about the process for this book and how you can use it with all the littles in your life! We talk story time, and musical memory, inspiration, and so much more! Pull up a chair or pop in your earbuds and join us for a fun chat about music, dance, animals, books, etc. CAN YOU DANCE LIKE A PEACOCKIf you are looking for a fun, readable, danceable, laughable, musical, interactive picture book, this is it! It integrates so many of the things kids love -- fun animal facts, colorful illustrations, interactive elements, funny dance moves, and a chance to be silly! The lyrical text sings, while teaching super-interesting facts about animals who "dance" and invites readers, whatever their age, to dance along. It's perfect for a read-aloud, great for a science integration, or really wonderful for any time! Be sure to ask for it at your local library or bookstore or check out the guest section below for how you can order your own copy!  A Little Jam. . .(The Music Kind)Kids love animals, and they love to pretend. This song is a fun connection to the book in terms of moving like animals. They also love to freeze and strike their favorite pose.. There are quite a few more animal movement videos on the YouTube playlist in the links section below, so if you'd prefer a different one, there are lots of choices. You'll also find video links of animal dances in the wild, and more. Teacher Tips, Tricks and TopicsThis book is such fun for Story time. It would work well with toddlers, preschoolers all the way through elementary school ages. There are lots of ways you could use this book with your children at home, in a story time setting, or in a classroom.
Tips and Topics for Music TeachersThe book is also great for the music classroom in many ways, especially integrating dance and movement.
Writing Prompts from Tonnye
Writing Tips from Rekha
Links, More Fun, Extensions for Families and Everyone!YouTube playlist that contains lots of fun kids' music to move and dance like animals, as well as videos of actual animal dances. Pinterest board with lots of activities and resources to accompany the book 
PBJamz Snack These thumbprint cookies rolled in potato chips remind me a bit of the spots on a peacock's tail feathers -- and I can guarantee they'll be more tasty ;-) Whether you've been dancing like bees, peacocks, flamingos and spiders or off writing your own amazing picture book 0r teaching littles. . . .whatever you've been doing, these seem like the perfect snack or sweet end to a lovely day of dancing through life. Check out the recipe here and enjoy whenever you decide to make these yummy treats! Guest Links and Giveaways Rekha's website
To buy CAN YOU DANCE LIKE A PEACOCK on Amazon Rekha's Twitter Rehka's Amazon page (with all her books) Rehka's Goodreads page Rekha has graciously offered up a copy of CAN YOU DANCE LIKE A PEACOCK! All you have to do to be eligible is leave a comment below! Good luck!
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Of music, dance, picture books, and children . . . according to Connie and TonnyeJoin Connie Dow and me as we talk moving, grooving and jamming. The book is so fun, and full of chants that will have your kids jumping, hopping, rapping, tapping and more! We chat about how you could use the book in various situations and talk about why she wrote the book, her process and more! Don't miss a single groove! TAP AND RAP; MOVE AND GROOVE by Connie B. Dow Written by Connie Bergstein Dow, illustrated by Debbie Palen, and published by Free Spirit Publishing, this book is absolutely perfect for a classroom or for a fun music-integrated playtime at preschool, daycare or at home. It is chock full of fun little chants which seamlessly integrate music and movement. Each has its own rhythm and its own theme, but each chant encourages children to move in fun and interesting ways. The illustrations are bright, colorful, diverse, and child-friendly. Connie puts her years of dance experience into creating a fun and fit experience that children will thoroughly enjoy! A Little Jam. . .(The Music Kind)My kinders, firsts and even many of my second-graders really enjoy Danny Go. He's the perfect blend of fun and silly but with some good skills, strategies, habits and learning mixed in. In this song, he encourages dance and movement in a variety of ways. It's a great extension of Connie's lovely book! Teacher Tips, Tricks and Topics |
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A Jammin' Conversation with Valerie Bolling
It's always a fun conversation with Valerie Bolling. We talk music, picture books, instruments from around the world, neighborhood block parties, and so much more! It's a great conversation about Valerie's book, but also the gift of reading and the multitudinous benefits of picture books!
BING BOP BAM! TIME TO JAM
(A little PB tasting)
With short and simple rhyming couplets, Valerie tells the story of a neighborhood coming together for a block party and a jam session. She uses lyrical language and steady cadence to bring the neighborhood down the street for food, music, and fun. Readers will experience the music and fun, too, as Bolling shares instruments from around the world from various cultures. You will, however, have to supply your own food. ;-) Readers of all ages will enjoy this book and you may even be inspired to host your own neighborhood block party or your own jam session -- or both!
A Little Jam. . .(The Music Kind)
What a perfect song to teach about community and reinforce the topics and layers Valerie put into BING BOP BAM! TIME TO JAM. It's a wonderful song about what community is and how diversity and unity make it better and stronger!
Teacher Tips, Tricks and Topics
If you're teaching/raising preschool-aged children, there are lots of layers/topics you could pull to extend learning:
- What is a community?
- Community helpers/service workers
- Using simple percussion or handmade instruments to have a "jam session"
- Different kinds of communities (urban, suburban, rural) etc.
- How to be a good neighbor
- citizenship
- Producers/consumers
- Goods/services
- Great tie-in for any community/citizenship study
- Your place(s) in the world. You are part of a family that's part of a community, that's part of a town/city, that's part of a county/parish/etc, that's part of a state, that's part of a country, that's part of a continent. . .
- Culture (music, food, language) coming together to make a new whole
- Research your own neighborhood -- the history, the people, etc.
- Plan a block party and/or a jam session
- Research the musical instrument(s) mentioned in the book. What family do they belong to, where did they originate, how have they changed over time, etc.
Tips and Topics for Music Teachers
Using the instruments mentioned (and pictured on the end papers), there are lots of topics you could teach/activities you could design from this book:
- Sorting instruments into the families of sound (brass, percussion, woodwind, string)
- Research the various instruments (For younger students, the teacher can share information about each instrument. Older students could work in groups. Even older students could complete independent projects.)
- Try out the ones you have access to.
- Allow students to play the instrument in turns or as part of a rotation
- You demonstrate
- You play a rhythm on the instrument; they echo with their instrument or tap on their lap, etc.
- Listen to/watch samples on YouTube or similar.
- Listening maps/prompts, etc.
- Have students create their own instrument(see the Pinterest board for ideas) and have your own "jam session"
- **Host a block party for your school (It might make a great fundraising effort or a great cultural project) culminating in a tasting party of various cultural foods, and a musical performance by your students focusing on community and neighborhood, etc.
Writing Prompts from Tonnye
- Choose your favorite instrument. If it were part of the jam session, write a rhyming couplet for it. (2 lines that rhyme)
- What does it mean to be part of a neighborhood?
- What is the favorite community you've ever been a part of ?
- Write about a party you attended. Answer all the W questions (Who, what, where, when, why, and how) in your writing.
- Write about a fictional party you did NOT attend :-). Answer all the W questions (Who, what, where, when, why and how.)
- Write a poem about someone in your neighborhood. It doesn't have to rhyme. It could be a haiku or a sensory poem or a list poem, or a limerick, etc.
- Write about your favorite instrument for a jam session.
- If you've ever watched/been part of a jam session, write about that.
- Write about a make-believe neighborhood that you'd like to be a part of.
- Make up a story about a block party and/or a jam session gone wrong.
- Write about what you think it would be like to play the steel drum (pan).
- Do you think it would be easier to play the erhu or the banjo? Why?
- Write about someone going to watch a jam session who ends up playing in the jam session.
Writing Tips from Valerie
1. READ as many books as you can in the genre you intend to write. Some people say that you shouldn't write a picture book until you've read at least 100 of them.
2. STUDY the basics of writing by attending webinars and presentations, going to conferences, and taking classes. I'd love to have you join one of my classes. I teach independently (message me on social media if you're interested in knowing more) and for the Highlights Foundation.
3. WRITE those ideas down and turn them into stories.
4. GET FEEDBACK on your stories. Find a critique group.
5. JOIN writing communities, like SCBWI, 12 X 12 Picture Book Challenge, and Black Creators HeadQuarters*.
*(if you’re Black, of course)
2. STUDY the basics of writing by attending webinars and presentations, going to conferences, and taking classes. I'd love to have you join one of my classes. I teach independently (message me on social media if you're interested in knowing more) and for the Highlights Foundation.
3. WRITE those ideas down and turn them into stories.
4. GET FEEDBACK on your stories. Find a critique group.
5. JOIN writing communities, like SCBWI, 12 X 12 Picture Book Challenge, and Black Creators HeadQuarters*.
*(if you’re Black, of course)
Links, More Fun, Extensions for Families and Everyone!
YouTube playlist with 90 videos to embellish and accentuate your experience with BING BOP JAM, including videos introducing and telling more about the musical instruments included in the book, as well as songs and videos about neighborhoods, communities, and community helpers. Also fun block party music and videos for your next kid-friendly neighborbhood block party.
A Pinterest board with neighborhood activities, coloring pages, block party planning tips, music lessons, information about the instruments mentioned, crafts, and more!
A Pinterest board with neighborhood activities, coloring pages, block party planning tips, music lessons, information about the instruments mentioned, crafts, and more!
PBJamz Snack -- PBJ Cheesecake Bars
If you're attending a neighborhood block party, this seems like the perfect food to take. It would be great for a dessert, but also for a snack. If there happened to be any leftover, you could maybe eat them for breakfast. Oh, well, maybe that's just me. ;-) A little grown-up appeal, a lot of kid appeal, and a whole lot of flavor, and if you're a PBJ fan, these deserve a permanent number on your street! Grab the recipe here.
Guest Links and Giveaways
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Website: valeriebolling.com
Twitter: twitter.com/valerie_bolling
Instagram: instagram.com/valeriebollingauthor
Facebook: facebook.com/ValerieBollingAuthor
To purchase Valerie's books, visit the Books page on her website and click on the book for purchase links.
Valerie has graciously agreed to offer a 15-minute telephone AMA (Ask Me Anything) to one lucky winner. If you'd like to pick her brain, hear more about her process, get her thoughts on publishing or anything else, leave a comment below. I'll draw a winner from commenters who leave a comment by Feb. 14 at 11:59 PM. I can promise you it will be an inspirational and stimulating conversation.
A Conversation Blending PBs and Jamz (Picture books and music)
Join Jeanette and me as we chat about picture books in the music classroom, in the regular classroom, and so much more! How to use them, what does she look for in a picture book, how to overcome the feeling of being on an island as a music teacher, how to get help, what to let go, and some great picture book recommendations. Come dig in with us!
A Little Jam. . .(The Music Kind)
As Jeanette stated, picture books are a great way to get kids interested in reading, no matter their age. We all love being read to Read-alouds are magical and sometimes get a child interested in a particular topic or in reading in general. Whether you are in the music classroom, a grade-specific classroom or any other setting full of young people, reading is a gateway to new and amazing places and experiences and that is sure to be valuable in your classroom!
Jeanette's teacher help books: STORIES THAT SING & STORIES THAT SING TOO
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Here are the two teacher books that Jeanette has co-written and has available (check out her website to order.) So many great books they have highlighted and created resources for that would make a great addition to your classroom. Kids are sure to love these picture books. Some of these are favorite books of mine (YOUR NAME IS A SONG, DRUM DREAM GIRL, and WHAT THE ROAD SAID from the second book and so. many. from the first one.) Great choices to add some music and movement and lots of fun literacy to your classroom, whether you're in the regular classroom or the music classroom!
Teacher Tips, Tricks and Topics
Since I don't want to steal any of Jeanette's thunder, and I'm not highlighting a specific picture book, I'm going to defer to Jeanette and encourage you to make use of her freebies, check out her blog and podcast for tons of great teacher tips, tricks and topics.
Tips and Topics for Music Teachers
Ditto above, but for music teachers. She has lots of great tips on the blog, the FB group, and the podcast, so go check her out, connect and enjoy her freebies!
Writing Prompts from Tonnye
- Write about a time a teacher used music in the classroom.
- Write about a picture book that made an impression on you.
- Write about the coolest read aloud you ever listened to.
- Have you ever done an amazing read aloud? Write about it.
- Write a storybook (picture book) that integrates ALL the things Jeanette looks for in a book to teach.
- Write about a time you blended music and reading (as a teacher or as a learner)
- Write a poem that integrates sound words (onomatopoeia)
- Write a story about the book that sang.
- Write a story about a child who learns to read with the help of music.
- If you "read" music, write about how that experience was similar and/or different from learning to "read" words/stories.
- Write your own list of storybooks that have implications for the music classroom (Feel free to share your list in the comments so we can all benefit!)
- Write about a book that makes you think of a song.
- Write about a song that makes you think of a book.
Writing Tips from Jeanette
Authors, Here are things Jeanette is looking for in a picture book to share with kids. These are great to work into your stories if you can.
- Repeating patterns to add instruments or a tiny melody
- Vivid illustrations
- Rhyming helps to practice steady beat
- Sound words (if you can hear a sound in your head when you read it, it’s a sound word)
- Movement words (if you can visualize a movement when you read it, it’s a movement word)
- A positive message
Links, More Fun, Extensions for Families and Everyone!
Here are a couple of Pinterest boards that will help you integrate music and literacy too!
Sing a Story: Read a Song
Music Integration
YouTube playlist full of music and literacy connections. Music, conversations, and more!
Jeanette's blog post "3 Reasons You Should Teach Storybook Lessons"
Sing a Story: Read a Song
Music Integration
YouTube playlist full of music and literacy connections. Music, conversations, and more!
Jeanette's blog post "3 Reasons You Should Teach Storybook Lessons"
PBJamz Snack
Here in the South, we love biscuits and we love peanut butter and jelly, so in honor of hosting a fellow-southerner for this episode, I'm sharing a simple and bound-to-be-delicious PBJ Monkey bread! For years, Monkey bread was a go-to for breakfast for Shane and me. We'd have some fruit alongside and maybe some bacon, ham or sausage, but holy wow, this takes Monkey bread to a whole new level! How yummy does this sound?!? You can find the recipe here.
Guest Links and Giveaways
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https://storiesthatsing.net (website)
All socials @thehappymusicteacher
Jeanette is generously doing a giveaway for every reader who is interested! Check it out:
- a month of storybook club free (Storybook club includes a lesson plan each month, a PowerPoint to increase student engagement, and a video tutorial for the lesson plan. )
- 2 free storybook lesson plans
- a bonus bouncy ball activity. Storybook club includes a lesson plan each month, a PowerPoint to increase student engagement, and a video tutorial for the lesson plan.
Link for freebies: https://storiesthatsing.net/pbjamz
Link for free storybook club for one month: https://the-music-teacher-academy.circle.so/checkout/storybook-spotlight-club
Enter FREESB at check out. It will charge $1 which I will refund.
A Slow-Slow-Quick-Quick-Slow Conversation with Rachel Hobbs
In this episode Rachel Hobbs and I chat about her amazing book, language learning, pitch success stories, cultural representation, music, fractured fairy tales and so. much. more! This is a rich conversation and we cover a LOT of ground! It's a great conversation sparked by a fabulous book. Read on to find out more about how you can use this book in the classroom or with your little one. We have tons of ideas below!
TANGO RED RIDING HOOD by Rachel S. Hobbs
This bilingual debut book by Rachel S. Hobbs is not only a fractured fairy tale, it is also full of Argentine culture, and full of musical references. It packs a lot of punch for a picture book! You'll find elements of the fairy tale/folk tale we know and love ("Little Red Riding Hood") with Spanish and musical elements embedded throughout. Wolf tangos through the story with a slow-slow-quick-quick slow retelling of the familiar tale that will make you hungry as a well . . .wolf :-) Hungry for more Spanish words and phrases, hungry for alfajores, and hungry for. . .TANGO! Bring on the music, bring on the cookies, and bring on the fun, while teaching a sweet cultural lesson along the way to Abuela's house!
A Little Jam. . .(The Music Kind)
This video seemed MOST appropriate to go along with this delightful book, as it is the song and the instrument that is mentioned in the story. This is El Choclo played on the bandoneon! There are additional musical connections in the YouTube playlist, so if you're looking for something different, be sure to check that out in the links section. You'll find lots of musical selections that are great companions to the book as well as classroom activities to go along.
Teacher Tips, Tricks and Topics
- Social Studies
- Argentina!!
- Map skills (Find Argentina. What is N,S,E,W of Argentina. Capital? Border countries? etc.
- Culture
- Food (alfajores)
- Music (See section below)
- Language (Glossary)
- Argentina!!
- ELA (English Language Arts)
- Vocabulary (lots of great vocabulary words.
- Could also talk about English words that are similar to Spanish/derived from Spanish
- Verb tenses/changing from one to the other
- Dance/danced/dancing
- Twirl/twirled
- leap/leaped
- blow/blew
- tap/tapped/tapping
- etc.
- Bilingual (using Spanish and English in the text interchangeably)
- Learning another language -- easy to mix up words/build compassion for ELL students and others learning a second language.
- Vocabulary (lots of great vocabulary words.
- Decoding practice/meaning making
- Context clues (How did you figure out the words in other language?)
- Picture clues
- making inferences
- Context clues (How did you figure out the words in other language?)
- Spanish/English
- Body parts matching (Spanish/English)
- Dance terms
Tips and Topics for Music Teachers
- Musical vocabulary
- Rhythm
- Beat
- Cadence
- Bandoneon
- Tempo
- Allegro
- Dance
- Tango
- Violin
- Argentine music
- El Choclo
- Listening
- Various versions
- lyrics
- Musical response
- Composer (Angel Villodo)
- Bandoneon
- Compare to other similar instruments (accordian, concertina, etc.)
- Listen to bandoneon music
- El Choclo
- Tango
- Tango music
- Tango steps
- Tango rhythm
Writing Prompts from Tonnye
1. What surprised you the most in this story?
2. Have you ever tried to learn another language? Write about that experience. What was hard/easy? Did you have any misconceptions?
3. Write your own version of RED RIDING HOOD.
4. Write a recipe for your favorite cookies.
5. Write a letter to one of the characters in the story. Try to use at least 3 Spanish words.
6. Write about how you figured out the words you didn't know in this story.
7. Why do you think Lobo confused eat/meet?
8. Do you think this is a good title for the story? Why/why not?
9. Listen to El Choclo. Write about how it makes you feel.
10. Have you ever danced Tango? Write about that experience. If you have not write about whether you'd like to learn or not.
11. Write about your favorite food from your culture.
12. If You have an abuela/abuelo (grandmother/grandfather) living, how would you get to their house. Write a story about going to visit them.
13. If you could choose between playing the bandoneon or the violin, which would you choose and why?
14. Write a paragraph about your body. Use the Spanish names for body parts.
2. Have you ever tried to learn another language? Write about that experience. What was hard/easy? Did you have any misconceptions?
3. Write your own version of RED RIDING HOOD.
4. Write a recipe for your favorite cookies.
5. Write a letter to one of the characters in the story. Try to use at least 3 Spanish words.
6. Write about how you figured out the words you didn't know in this story.
7. Why do you think Lobo confused eat/meet?
8. Do you think this is a good title for the story? Why/why not?
9. Listen to El Choclo. Write about how it makes you feel.
10. Have you ever danced Tango? Write about that experience. If you have not write about whether you'd like to learn or not.
11. Write about your favorite food from your culture.
12. If You have an abuela/abuelo (grandmother/grandfather) living, how would you get to their house. Write a story about going to visit them.
13. If you could choose between playing the bandoneon or the violin, which would you choose and why?
14. Write a paragraph about your body. Use the Spanish names for body parts.
Writing Tips from Rachel
1. Find a critique group that resonates with you, not necessarily tells you what you want though! For example, if a partner doesn't like words in another language but you write using words or phrases in another language, they are probably not the best fit for you.
2. Find someone to enthusiastically telI your ideas to! I don't like journaling, but I like talking and I have had amazing walking partners who have let me chat about my newest ideas, or recent revisions, etc. They weren't writers themselves, but they liked books and liked me, so that was helpful! Your critique group can give you, well, the critiques, but your friends can be your hype team.
3. Remember this is not a race and you're not competing. Publishing will always be there. I used to want to be published first in my twenties and I felt like everything was such a rush. Now in my 40's I know that good stories at times need to marinate, some longer than others. Connecting with other writers and establishing a sense of camaraderie helped me see how writers can be cheerleaders for other writers, and that is beautiful!
4. Write because you love writing, not just to be published. If you write for publication, you might get discouraged and stop writing. But would you really be happy not writing for the rest of your life? Remember why you write--because of joy and personal fulfillment. Then when publishing does come your way, it's the cherry on top.
5. What books did you want to read when you were younger and how do you want kids to feel when they read your books? Pull from your personal experiences when you write, even if your actual experiences don't show up on the page.
2. Find someone to enthusiastically telI your ideas to! I don't like journaling, but I like talking and I have had amazing walking partners who have let me chat about my newest ideas, or recent revisions, etc. They weren't writers themselves, but they liked books and liked me, so that was helpful! Your critique group can give you, well, the critiques, but your friends can be your hype team.
3. Remember this is not a race and you're not competing. Publishing will always be there. I used to want to be published first in my twenties and I felt like everything was such a rush. Now in my 40's I know that good stories at times need to marinate, some longer than others. Connecting with other writers and establishing a sense of camaraderie helped me see how writers can be cheerleaders for other writers, and that is beautiful!
4. Write because you love writing, not just to be published. If you write for publication, you might get discouraged and stop writing. But would you really be happy not writing for the rest of your life? Remember why you write--because of joy and personal fulfillment. Then when publishing does come your way, it's the cherry on top.
5. What books did you want to read when you were younger and how do you want kids to feel when they read your books? Pull from your personal experiences when you write, even if your actual experiences don't show up on the page.
Links, More Fun, Extensions for Families and Everyone!
YouTube playlist with lots of musical connections and activities to go along with TANGO RED RIDING HOOD
Pinterest board with Spanish learning activities, info about Argentina, tango, and more!
FUN! page on Rachel's website with coloring pages, word searches, AND the recipe for Alfajores! (Click on the FUN tab if it doesn't take you there directly.)
Pinterest board with Spanish learning activities, info about Argentina, tango, and more!
FUN! page on Rachel's website with coloring pages, word searches, AND the recipe for Alfajores! (Click on the FUN tab if it doesn't take you there directly.)
PBJamz Snack
If you've been a subscriber or follower for any length of time, you know I love to personalize my PBJ snacks whenever possible, so I'm borrowing Rachel's photo of her alfajores and I'm going to make a suggestion. Her recipe for traditional alfajores are here. If you notice in her description/info, she says the most traditional filling is dulce de leche, which I think we should all try! But she also says you can use jelly . . . so, when I try them, I'm going to save some and make PBJ Alfajores. When the cookies cool, I'm going to layer peanut butter and jelly/jam between (I think I'll use strawberry). And then, if you wanted to go a step further, you could roll them in crushed peanuts! Que tan delicioso! That's enough to make us all hungry . . .as a wolf ;-)
Guest Links and Giveaways
Rachel is a delight, and you're going to want to follow her progress, because I know this will not be the last we hear from her! As a matter of fact, I bet she'll be a guest again on PBJamz because music is an integral part of her life! Anyway to follow her on all the socials, and find out more about her and what she's up to, here are all her links:
Website: www.rachelshobbs.com
Twitter: Rachel_S_Hobbs
Instagram: rachel_s_hobbs
TikTok: rachel.s.hobbs
As well as following her, please leave positive reviews if you read and enjoy her book, request it (and check it out) at your local library and bookstore, mark it want to read (or read) on GoodReads, recommend it to friends and family, buy a copy as a gift, shout it out on socials if you enjoy it, etc. There are so many ways to support authors that don't cost a penny! (However, if you CAN afford it, you'll definitely want to add this book to your collection! ;-))
Also, my rhyming writing friends will be thrilled to know that Rachel is offering a picture book critique. If you're the winner, you can choose to submit a non-rhyming picture book (up to 600 words) OR a RHYMING picture book (Limited to 200 words) for Rachel to critique. To enter, simply leave a comment below!
Website: www.rachelshobbs.com
Twitter: Rachel_S_Hobbs
Instagram: rachel_s_hobbs
TikTok: rachel.s.hobbs
As well as following her, please leave positive reviews if you read and enjoy her book, request it (and check it out) at your local library and bookstore, mark it want to read (or read) on GoodReads, recommend it to friends and family, buy a copy as a gift, shout it out on socials if you enjoy it, etc. There are so many ways to support authors that don't cost a penny! (However, if you CAN afford it, you'll definitely want to add this book to your collection! ;-))
Also, my rhyming writing friends will be thrilled to know that Rachel is offering a picture book critique. If you're the winner, you can choose to submit a non-rhyming picture book (up to 600 words) OR a RHYMING picture book (Limited to 200 words) for Rachel to critique. To enter, simply leave a comment below!
Congratulations Shaunda and Jany! You are the winners of YELLOW DOG BLUES by Alice Faye Duncan! Thanks Alice for your generosity, and thank you Shaunda and Jany for supporting PBJamz!
Around the world through Music with Rekha
Rekha Rajan and I chat about the fourth and final book in her board book series THIS IS MUSIC: VOICE. Our conversation runs from her inspiration and process for this book and the series, to marketing and the power of music in so many areas. We talk about representation and multiculturalism, and tons more! It's always a delight to talk with Rekha, and these books are the perfect gift for your young musical reader as the holidays approach.
THIS IS MUSIC: VOICE by Rekha Rajan
The fourth and final installment of Rekha Rajan's board book series focuses on Voice, and like the others, this small but mighty book packs a powerful punch for the young musician in your life. While it is a board book, don't be fooled. It is chock full of musical content and vocabulary for your young musicians. Featuring vibrant and familiar illustrations by Tania Yakunova, the entire series is colorful, informative, musical, fun, and interactive. This set of four books would make a great gift for the young soon-to-be-reader, preschool music-lover, teacher, parent, or more.
A Little Jam. . .(The Music Kind)
One of the things Rekha and I point out in our conversation is that Tania included sign language in the illustration of the chorus. This song is literally about singing, which is a perfect tie-in for VOICE, but it also is fabulous for helping kids identify/recognize colors. Colors are super-easy to sign in ASL. Here's one example. This is a lovely way to bring some of these ideas together.
Teacher Tips, Tricks and Topics
Perfect science tie-in:
How does our voice work? You could do the simplest version of this where students touch their throat gently to feel their vocal cords vibrate and talk about vibrations creating sound or you could get much more technical for older students. Check out the links section for some resources.
Social Studies:
DECIBELLA AND HER 6-INCH VOICE
Sign language
How does our voice work? You could do the simplest version of this where students touch their throat gently to feel their vocal cords vibrate and talk about vibrations creating sound or you could get much more technical for older students. Check out the links section for some resources.
Social Studies:
- What does it mean to "use your voice" or "lose your voice" for a social/cultural/ political/educational cause? Discuss the differences in a literal interpretation of your voice and the more figurative interpretation.
- Discuss how some historic figures used their voice for change.
- Do deaf people have a voice? Does a voice have to be audible? How can people without an audible voice have their voice heard?
DECIBELLA AND HER 6-INCH VOICE
Sign language
Tips and Topics for Music Teachers
- Different styles of using your voice to make music:
- Opera
- Rap
- Yodeling
- How the voice works
- How to care for your voice appropriately
- Vocal warm-ups
- A cappela (singing without the use of musical instruments)
- Various a capella groups:
- Pentatonix
- HomeFree
- VoicePlay
- Various a capella groups:
- Solfege/vocal scale singing
- Comparison between Indian solfege and western solfege (syllabic note singing)
- Vocal exploration exercises (check the YouTube playlist in the links section)
- Different vocal ranges: soprano, alto, tenor, bass, etc.
- Pitch
- Mouth shapes/vocalizations/etc. (partner with speech therapist/reading teachers
Writing Prompts from Tonnye
- Write about using your voice
- Write a poem titled "My Voice"
- Does everyone's voice matter? Why? How can we make sure every voice is heard?
- I can use my voice for _______________ (good, change, helping, kindness, etc.) Fill in the blank and then give good details and examples.
- Write a story titled, "The Singer Who Lost Their Voice"
- What would you do if you woke up one day without a voice?
- Write a funny story about a bear with a mouse's voice.
- If I woke up with the voice of an animal, I would want the voice of a _______ because ______. (Add lots of details. What would be good, hard, scary, exciting . . . if you switched voices with that animal.)
- Title: When Ant Found His Voice
- Would you rather use your voice for opera, rap, yodeling or another style of singing? Why?
- Write a step-by-step plan for taking care of your voice.
- Would you rather? Have the voice of a dolphin or a dragon? Why?
- Write about a historical person who used their voice to change the world.
- Write about a deaf person who discovers their "voice" and learns to make a difference without an audible voice.
- Write about a great big animal with a teeny tiny voice OR write about a teeny tiny animal with a great big voice. What if they were best friends? Write that story.
Writing Tips from Rekha
- Read the types of books you want to write. When I was working on a nonfiction, picture book biography, I read as many as I could.
- Find time to write everyday - even if it is just one paragraph.
- Step away from your projects. We get so invested in what we write that sometimes, leaving them for a day or week helps to read with new eyes.
- Don't give up!
Links, More Fun, Extensions for Families and Everyone!
YouTube playlist with vocal exercises, fun songs, solfege, voice care tips and more!
Pinterest boardpin.it/KXPs5pI with lots of teaching tips and ideas, voice care, vocal exercises, information about how the voice works, etc.
Pinterest boardpin.it/KXPs5pI with lots of teaching tips and ideas, voice care, vocal exercises, information about how the voice works, etc.
PBJamz Snack
While Rekha and I were chatting, she shared that she ate peanut butter and jelly sandwiches every day for lunch for years. Now that her palate is more refined ;-), I'm thinking this peanut butter and jelly sandwich would be right up her alley now. It's more of an idea and a technique that you could personalize with your favorite bread, your favorite jam/jelly, your favorite nut butter, etc. and then apply this technique. Bring on the Boysenberry jam, Rekha, and give this a try :-)
Guest Links and Giveaways
Rekha's website
Twitter/X
Instagram
To buy THIS IS MUSIC: VOICE
Rekha is offering a TRIPLE giveaway for this episode!!! Comment below for your chance to win:
1. A PB critique (subject to Rekha's exclusions on word count, etc.)
2. A signed copy of THIS IS MUSIC: VOICE
3. A virtual OR in-person school visit with Rekha!
Three winners will be chosen! Leave us a comment to be entered!
Twitter/X
To buy THIS IS MUSIC: VOICE
Rekha is offering a TRIPLE giveaway for this episode!!! Comment below for your chance to win:
1. A PB critique (subject to Rekha's exclusions on word count, etc.)
2. A signed copy of THIS IS MUSIC: VOICE
3. A virtual OR in-person school visit with Rekha!
Three winners will be chosen! Leave us a comment to be entered!
Steena Hernandez! Congratulations! You are the winner for Jen Fier Jasinski's episode! You'll be able to choose your prize: a PB critique, a signed copy of MY PIANO, or a Zoom session with Jen! Thanks to Jen and Steena for your support of PBJamz!
A delicious road trip chat with Alice Faye Duncan
Join Alice and me again as we talk geography, racism, revision, and more! This conversation is packed as full of goodness as a Hicks tamale! Alice's vivacious personality shines through, and she shares some real gems that she's discovered along the way! This book is absolutely beautiful! Chris Rashka's multi-media illustrations of embroidery and collage are so cool.
YELLOW DOG BLUES
YELLOW DOG BLUES is a beautiful and bright book, written by Alice Faye Duncan, and illustrated by Chris Raschka. Published by Eerdmans, YDB follows a yellow dog along the blues hwy and stops us at various landmarks and introduces us to some musical characters, and lots of musical fun!
A Little Jam. . .(The Music Kind)
This video seemed the perfect accompaniment to this episode, as it's a Memphis Blues Band and showing some of the landmarks significant to the Delta Blues. A 1922 recording that should give students an idea of the feel and sound of time and place for the Delta Blues. And of course, the piece of music itself is "Yellow Dog Blues" If you are using it with students, you might have youngest students march or clap or tap their lap to maintain a steady beat. Older students might listen for various rhythmic pattern or the timbre of certain instruments. Listening for form might be another activity. Feel free to leave a comment about how you used the piece.
Teacher Tips, Tricks and Topics
- This book is a perfect tie-in for history/social studies. You could use it in many different ways:
- Maps/trails
- Civil rights
- Black history
- Geography
- Music History
- Art teachers (or other interested teachers) could focus in on the art techniques employed by Chris Raschka in this book. You could further compare with his other art and turn it into an illustrator study.
- You could also do an author study of Alice Faye Duncan. She has written several books relative to civil rights and the black experience.
- This book would be a great addition to your "Black History Month" activities.
- SEL component -- How do we deal with it when important people in our lives don't stay (like Yellow Dog)?
- Setting is a perfect story element to bring out in this book as well since it plays a huge role in the book.
- Character would be another natural story element on which to focus, since we learn a lot about Yellow Dog. (inside/outside character map, etc.).
- You might find other interesting activities to use on this Pinterest board
Tips and Topics for Music Teachers
- Musical genre spotlight: Blues (specifically Delta blues)
- You could also spin off from this and compare various blues formats and how they are alike and different.
- Music history of the Blues (where did it come from, how and why did it morph, how does it sound today, etc.)
- Timeline of the Blues
- The Blues Trail -- So many fun ways you could do this, including if you're so inclined. . . ) and lots more resources on The Mississipi Blues Trail website.
- Various version of the song "Yellow Dog Blues" (be sure to preview content in light of the ages you teach; not all lyrics may be appropriate for all ages.
- 12-bar blues -- what does that mean? Explore the construction of blues music.
- Write your own blues song -- several tutorials online, as well as the back of the book. I particularly like this YouTube video tutorial.
- Explore form based on the blues writing experience.
- Learn more about some of the Blues superheroes (There are quite a few ideas in the Pinterest board in the links section)
- Explore the questions surrounding blues, like did all modern music descend from the blues? Why/why not, etc.?
- There are lots more ways you could explore this book and its related content in the music room. This book, in particular, could skew much older as a stepping stone into the blues.
Writing Prompts from Tonnye
1. Write your own blues music! There's an activity in the back of the book, along with a couple more on the YouTube playlist and the Pinterest board. Pick whichever one works best for you and write the blues!
2. Write about a time when you had "the blues". What made you feel sad? What helped you deal with your sadness and eventually not feel so sad?
3. Research one of the blues superheroes and write your own story about them!
4. In the end, yellow dog doesn't stay in one place. The author says some things just aren't made to live that way. Have you had an experience with a "yellow dog" in your own life? Write about that.
5. Based on the information in the book, which blues landmark would you most like to visit and why?
6. Listen to the instrumental version of "Yellow Dog Blues" song above and write about how it makes you feel? Why?
7. Listen to the instrumental version and a version with lyrics of Yellow Dog Blues. Which do you prefer? Why? How are they alike? Different?
8. Have you ever visited any of the landmarks in the book? If so, write about that experience.
9. Hicks Tamales is one of the stops on the blues trail. Have you ever eaten tamales? Or made tamales? Write about that experience.
10. Write your own version of "Yellow Dog Blues" -- what does that title make YOU think of? Will yours have a literal yellow dog?
11. Why is this type of music called Delta Blues? Find some text evidence for your answer and add it. Then do some more research on Delta Blues and add more to your report.
12. Draw a map and write about the trail of {your life}. What would be the landmarks? Where would the trail travel?
13. Write about a special pet that you've had, whether a yellow dog or a black cat or a color-changing chameleon.
14.Why do you think it's important to learn about blues music?
2. Write about a time when you had "the blues". What made you feel sad? What helped you deal with your sadness and eventually not feel so sad?
3. Research one of the blues superheroes and write your own story about them!
4. In the end, yellow dog doesn't stay in one place. The author says some things just aren't made to live that way. Have you had an experience with a "yellow dog" in your own life? Write about that.
5. Based on the information in the book, which blues landmark would you most like to visit and why?
6. Listen to the instrumental version of "Yellow Dog Blues" song above and write about how it makes you feel? Why?
7. Listen to the instrumental version and a version with lyrics of Yellow Dog Blues. Which do you prefer? Why? How are they alike? Different?
8. Have you ever visited any of the landmarks in the book? If so, write about that experience.
9. Hicks Tamales is one of the stops on the blues trail. Have you ever eaten tamales? Or made tamales? Write about that experience.
10. Write your own version of "Yellow Dog Blues" -- what does that title make YOU think of? Will yours have a literal yellow dog?
11. Why is this type of music called Delta Blues? Find some text evidence for your answer and add it. Then do some more research on Delta Blues and add more to your report.
12. Draw a map and write about the trail of {your life}. What would be the landmarks? Where would the trail travel?
13. Write about a special pet that you've had, whether a yellow dog or a black cat or a color-changing chameleon.
14.Why do you think it's important to learn about blues music?
Writing Tips from Alice
1. For craft, read fairytales and folktales to study story structures.
2. For practical work, write in clothes that serve you comfort and/or make you feel writerly.
3. For inspiration, take a daily walk or hit the treadmill to be in communion with your imagination.
2. For practical work, write in clothes that serve you comfort and/or make you feel writerly.
3. For inspiration, take a daily walk or hit the treadmill to be in communion with your imagination.
Links, More Fun, Extensions for Families and Everyone!
Here is a great little YouTube playlist with lots of Delta blues music, including several versions of Yellow Dog Blues, along with musicians in the book, and lessons for kids to create their own blues music!
This Pinterest board is full of all kinds of amazing activities, from other pbs that focus on blues music, to activities for writing your own blues song to history lessons for older students about the blues, playlists, and so much more!
Alice's page for YELLOW DOG BLUES also has an activity guide that you may find helpful!
This Pinterest board is full of all kinds of amazing activities, from other pbs that focus on blues music, to activities for writing your own blues song to history lessons for older students about the blues, playlists, and so much more!
Alice's page for YELLOW DOG BLUES also has an activity guide that you may find helpful!
PBJamz Snack
In honor of Hicks Tamales, our PBJ snack today is a PBJ sweet tamale. This recipe calls for raisins. I would replace those with a couple tablespoons of your favorite jam or jelly. These are not traditional to Mexico or to Hicks. They're a fun play on traditional sweet tamales. If you try them and like them, let us know.
Guest Links and Giveaways
Alice's website
Purchase YELLOW DOG BLUES from Amazon here.
Alice on Facebook
Alice on Twitter
YELLOW DOG BLUES page on Alice's website (with teaching guide)
Alice is giving away 2 copies of YELLOW DOG BLUES! Leave a comment below to enter the giveaway! Good luck!
Purchase YELLOW DOG BLUES from Amazon here.
Alice on Facebook
Alice on Twitter
YELLOW DOG BLUES page on Alice's website (with teaching guide)
Alice is giving away 2 copies of YELLOW DOG BLUES! Leave a comment below to enter the giveaway! Good luck!
Jany Campana!!! Congratulations! You are the winner of either a PB critique OR a Zoom visit from Lisa Rogers! Thanks for your constant support of PBJamz! And thanks, Lisa, for your generosity! I'll put the two of you in touch to make arrangements! :-)
A Fully Packed Chat with Jen Fier Jasinski
Jen's book is fully packed with layers and so is this conversation! Join us as we chat writing, process, rhyme, inspiration, peanut butter and jelly recipes, and more! Such a fun conversation with a delightful author about an amazing book. MY PIANO is beautiful in words and illustrations! And by the way, we double-checked with Anita about the pronunciation of her name "it's pronounced Bahg-dee/Bawg-dee... the "a" makes a sound like like that in "claw" or "paw", not "bag" like the container."
MY PIANO by Jen Fier Jasinski
MY PIANO is written by Jen Fier Jasinski and illustrated by Anita Bagdi. Published by Gnome Road Publishing, this book has more layers than Grandma's chocolate cake!Rhyme, cumulative structure, parts of a piano, and SEL tips for how to handle recital jitters? Check, check, check, and check! It's beautifully written and beautifully illustrated and full of so much goodness! It's a fabulous introduction to the piano, a helpful treatise on how to deal with stage fright and recital nerves, and a wonderfully fun read-aloud. Both author and illustrator have outdone themselves and the results are this fabulous picture book. It's perfect for little pianists, little music-lovers, little recitalists, little readers, little writers -- and big ones, too. It's a perfect reminder that picture books are truly for everyone!
A Little Jam. . .(The Music Kind)
This was Umi Garrett's first television appearance. on the Ellen Degeneres Show as a young child. She does some amazing piano tricks and plays beautifully!
Teacher Tips, Tricks and Topics
Be sure to also check out the resources section below. The Pinterest boards, YouTube playlist and the educator Guide from Gnome Road are all there with tons of ideas for how to use this book in your classroom, at home, or in your music room.
- On that first page, I would read the first line, let students look at the picture and make some predictions. What do you think is happening? Where is she? Why? What do you think this book is going to be about?
- This book is the perfect book to talk about setting. We get the setting from the first spread, but students will have to use their inferring skills to determine where they are. A great conversation starter about who has been on stage before? Where? Why? How did you feel at the beginning? How about at the end? Set the stage (pun intended ;-) for how our young protagonist may be feeling.
- Prepositional phrases are a natural fit for this book as well. "under the soundboard" "to the frame" "in the case" etc. (For younger students positional words and games: in, on, under, through, over, etc. There are some fun songs on YouTube -- I'll try to link one or two in the playlist.)
- Rhyme, of course, is a perfect thing to delve into as well. For young learners, perhaps just recognizing the rhyme (pause and let them fill in the repetitive rhymes or make a guess at the rhyming word if it's one they should be familiar with.) For older learners, generating a rhyming list with some of the words that are used, or simply asking for 3 words that rhyme with base, etc.
- When you get to the page with "Soon the recital is going to start. . . " how does the book change here? What is this young girl feeling? Why? What can she do to help herself? Have you ever been in that situation? What helped you?
- When the author says the audience is gone, what does she mean? Did the audience really disappear?
- What did the pianist do to push through her nervousness? (SEL)
- On the spread, that reads, "And this is the show. . . SWELL, RIPPLE, FLOW . . ." why do you think the illustrator chose to put some of the words in the illustration?
- How does the author show how the music affects the listeners? How does the illustrator show the same thing? Does it help having words and pictures showing it in different ways? Why do you think so?
- Did the audience enjoy her performance? How do you know? Cite text evidence that shows how they felt.
- Math -- you could take the pattern of the white and black keys and have students create another pattern that matches the keyboard pattern
- Science/STEAM -- Lots of science possibilities with how sound is formed, how it travels, how it's affected by the various pedals, etc. This would be a great study in conjunction with your music teacher if you and they are willing.
- After reading, there are a couple of good videos in the YouTube playlist with close-up tour of a piano. If you have a piano at home or in the school setting, take kids there and let them see and experience the different parts of the piano.
- As a follow-up activity, labeling a piano worksheet (Pinterest board has a couple) or "show me" game if you're standing in front of a real piano. (Show me the strings. Show me the pedals, etc.)
Tips and Topics for Music Teachers
- This book is chock full of musical vocabulary. You could preteach some of the vocabulary or use it as a review, or you could create motions (or sounds) for students to do every time they hear the word ______ (Ex strings, they could pretend to hold a violin; keys, they could pretend to play an invisible keyboard, pedals, they could tap their foot, soundboard, they could put their hand to their ear, etc.)
- Fabulous way to introduce the piano. For older students, you might do a lesson on the history of the piano and how it changed. Or other keyboard instruments and compare/contrast
- Simple piano lessons (Some on the YouTube playlist)
- A great way to introduce the keyboard pattern of white keys and black and how they're the same, whether you're on a grand piano, upright or keyboard. There are also some worksheets and activities for beginning to learn the letter names of the keys on the Pinterest board.
- After reading, there are a couple of good videos in the YouTube playlist with close-up tour of a piano. If you have a piano at home or in the school setting, take kids there and let them see and experience the different parts of the piano. The back matter of the book is stellar for this and the next suggestion.
- As a follow-up activity, labeling a piano worksheet (Pinterest board has a couple) or "show me" game if you're standing in front of a real piano. (Show me the strings. Show me the pedals, etc.)
- The back matter of the book has a fabulous section on how to prepare for a recital/performance that would be very helpful leading up to a performance. (There's also an excellent TED talk in the YouTube playlist).
- There are some stellar performances by very young kids on the YouTube playlist that would be a great addition to the book.
- Particularly interesting might be to show videos of Umi Garrett on the Ellen Show, and then subsequent performances after that as she gets older. What changes? What stays the same?
Writing Prompts from Tonnye
- This book is patterned after another story that's been around a long time, THIS IS THE HOUSE THAT JACK BUILT. A song that uses the cumulative structure is The Twelve Days of Christmas. Try your hand at writing a cumulative story where the parts are repeated and one gets added each time.
- Choose your favorite musical instrument and try writing about all the parts of your instrument and how they work together to make sound.
- Write a letter to the young girl with your tips for helping her to push through her nerves and do a great job anyway.
- Choose 5 of the musical words from the story to write your own story.
- In your own words, write what you learned about a piano from the text.
- Listen to a piece of piano music and write about how it makes you feel and why.
- If you've ever performed in front of a lot of people, write about how you felt at the beginning and how you felt at the end.
- The audience in the book felt _____________ when she played. I know because. . . .(cite 3 examples of text evidence.)
- Write a poem about the piano using some of the things you learned.
- Write an ACROSTIC poem titled PIANO.
- Draw a picture of a piano and label the parts.
- Use at least 5 sentences to write about how a piano makes sound.
- Write about whether you like piano music or not and explain why.
- Write a letter from this young student to her teacher. What do you think she would say to them? How would she sign her letter?
- Make a poster for her recital. What would need to go on the poster?
- Have you ever learned to play a musical instrument? What was that like? What was hard? What did you enjoy?
- Choose a word from the book. Make a list of as many rhyming words as you can.
- When you are nervous (or have another big feeling) how do you handle it? Does that work for you? Is there anything you would change after reading this book?
- Write a letter to the author or the illustrator telling them three things you liked about the book. (You could even mail or email it to them.)
Writing Tips from Jen
- Read lots and lots of recently published picture books. Then read some more.
- Connect to others in the kidlit community through courses, social media, critique groups, etc. The publishing industry is an emotional roller coaster and more fun with friends by your side.
- Take your writing seriously and others will, too.
- When writing feels too hard, take a break to go play.
Links, More Fun, Extensions for Families and Everyone!
Pinterest board, full of diagrams, videos lessons, coloring sheets, piano-labeling sheets and so much more! Lots of things here for lessons So many great extensions and companions for the book!
YouTube playlist full of great music, piano lessons, recital tips, performances and more!
Pinterest board with piano lessons, tips, etc. for learning to play.
Educator Guide from Gnome Road Publishing
MY PIANO page from Gnome Road Publishing (word search, coloring page, and more)
YouTube playlist full of great music, piano lessons, recital tips, performances and more!
Pinterest board with piano lessons, tips, etc. for learning to play.
Educator Guide from Gnome Road Publishing
MY PIANO page from Gnome Road Publishing (word search, coloring page, and more)
PBJamz Snack
I had cute little thumbprint cookies and their recipe ready, as I thought that would be a lovely post-recital reception treat. Then I was back on Jen's blog and saw that her birthday is Pi Day and I thought about changing to pie, but if you look at the picture below carefully, you'll see "cake" in the background. and her info says her favorite days include cake, so . . . I changed my mind and I'm posting this beautiful and decadent PBJ cake in honor of MY PIANO's (slightly belated) book birthday! You can find the recipe here. It requires some effort, but looks to be totally worth it, and I certainly think that any day with this cake in it would be a very good day indeed, and it, too, would make a lovely post-recital reception offering. And, it's beautiful to look at as well. Whether you serve it at a recital reception, a birthday party or simply Sunday dinner, I wish you days of music and laughter to go along with it!
Guest Links and Giveaways
Jen is a dear fun-loving human being who is lovely to talk to, full of great ideas, and who has a great laugh. If you'd like to learn more about her, connect with her, or purchase her book, keep reading!
Jen's website
Instagram
FB
Twitter/X
To order Jen's book(s)
Jen has graciously offered a giveaway -- your choice of a picture book critique, a zoom session, a signed copy of MY PIANO if you are the winner!
To be eligible, leave a comment below, and I'll add your name to the drawing!
Jen's website
FB
Twitter/X
To order Jen's book(s)
Jen has graciously offered a giveaway -- your choice of a picture book critique, a zoom session, a signed copy of MY PIANO if you are the winner!
To be eligible, leave a comment below, and I'll add your name to the drawing!
Diane McBee! Congratulations! You are the winner of a copy of SONG AFTER SONG: THE MUSICAL LIFE OF JULIE ANDREWS! I'll be in touch for how to collect your prize! I know you will love this amazing book! Enjoy!
A Lovely Conversation with Lisa Rogers, author of BEAUTIFUL NOISE
Lisa and I had the loveliest conversation. She is beautiful and gracious and mellow and it was a delight to talk with her about books and music and writing process and art. The marriage of art and text . . . She gives you a little sneak peak read aloud of the first couple of spreads and a wonderful look at the amazing end papers. So cool! I could have talked with Lisa for hours! I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did!
BEAUTIFUL NOISE: THE MUSIC OF JOHN CAGE
A unique structure and a unique illustrative style are very well-suited to tell the story of a very unique composer and musician, John Cage. With a compelling if. . . then format, this book will draw readers in and insist that they make decisions about how they see the world -- and how they define music and whether or not they have some similarities to John Cage. Readers of all ages will close this book enlightened and challenged -- and introduced to some musical ideas they possibly have not encountered before.
October 10, 2023
by Lisa Rogers (Author), Il Sung Na (Illustrator)
Publisher
Anne Schwartz Books
October 10, 2023
by Lisa Rogers (Author), Il Sung Na (Illustrator)
Publisher
Anne Schwartz Books
A Little Jam. . .(The Music Kind)
I chose this piece from John Cage's compositions for a few reasons:
1. I try to keep these selections short so that they are of the most benefit in a classroom setting.
2. I think students will be intrigued by these sounds.
3. I really like how this video shows how the piano was "prepared" for this piece of music. I think they will find that fascinating.
There are additional compositions and performances on the YouTube playlist in the links section below.
1. I try to keep these selections short so that they are of the most benefit in a classroom setting.
2. I think students will be intrigued by these sounds.
3. I really like how this video shows how the piano was "prepared" for this piece of music. I think they will find that fascinating.
There are additional compositions and performances on the YouTube playlist in the links section below.
Teacher Tips, Tricks and Topics
- Listening skills is s very natural content piece to pull from this book. The last line of the book is literally "Listen." Adapt that in any ways you see fit. (Listening to teachers, listening to nature, listening for directions, directed drawing, etc.)
- What if. . . then . . .(Cause/effect; if/then relationships) Create if/then statements, look for cause/effect relationships in this book and others.
- Asking "what if" questions -- embracing your curiosity.
- 4:33. Listen in silence for 4 minutes 33 seconds. Discuss what you heard during that time. Were those sounds music or noise? Why? How do you know?
- Look up noise and music in several dictionaries. Discuss the similarities and differences. After talking about the comparisons, write your own definitions of noise and music.
Tips and Topics for Music Teachers
Can I just purport that we thrown out age expectations of picture books? I always say picture books are for everyone, but some books, in particular, while being perfectly suited for younger audiences are at least as well-suited if not even better-suited for older audiences. I believe BEAUTIFUL NOISE is one such book. Yes, it's a picture book for young children, and it introduces John Cage in a very appropriate way for young kids, but it's also a very informative and easy-access way to get older kids interested in JOhn Cage and then do more of an in-depth study of him and his philosophies of music and sound.
- Any activities that explore sound would be a perfect correlation: shaker eggs/boxes where students try to identify the contents or match up ones that are the same.
- Pitch experiments with water glasses would be a great tie-in.
- Modifying instruments in creative ways: Blending, adding, mixing,PLAY with the instruments.
- Listen for "ordinary" sounds and really pay attention.
- Found sound activities
- STOMP! video performances (Found sound)
- Go for a sound walk on the playground or around your school. Record or make a list of as many sounds as you can.
- Do a sound scavenger hunt.
- Listen to John Cage's music and discuss it. Talk about what is happening.
- Any listening activities are appropriate. You can find additional listening activities on the lists/boards for LISTEN. UP LOUELLA by Ashley Belote and LISTEN by Shannon Stocker
Writing Prompts from Tonnye
- John Cage's quote at the beginning of the book, "I can't understand why people are frightened of new ideas. I'm frightened of the old ones." Write about your impressions of that quote. What does it mean? Where do you fall on that continuum? Why do you think some people are afraid of new ideas? Why do you think John Cage is afraid of old ideas?
- Write an autobiography (or a biography of someone you know well) using Lisa Rogers' " What if . . . .Then . . . " structure.
- Spend 4 minutes, 33 seconds listening in silence. Make a list of all the sounds you hear in the background. Write about that experience. What surprised you? What was hard? What was your favorite sound? What will you listen more carefully for now?
- Why is listening important?
- How can you tell if someone is really listening to you? How will that help you be a good listener to someone else?
- What is your favorite kind of music to listen to? Why?
- What sounds are hard for you to listen to? Why?
- Listen to one of John Cage's compositions and write about the experience.
- Write about what you think the difference is in music and noise, if there is one.
- Where does the title BEAUTIFUL NOISE come from? Do you agree with the idea?
- Write a story about a child who didn't listen to their parents.
- Write a story about a child who loved noise and an adult who didn't.
- Write a story about 2 friends: one who was like John Cage and thought noise was beautiful music and another friend who had a very strong idea about what music is.
- Write a poem using at least 5 of the onomatopoeia you heard during your 4 minute 33 second listening adventure.
- Choose 5 sounds that most people think are "noise". Listen to each one carefully and see if you can find any beauty in it. Write about each of the sounds in that way.
- What is your favorite sound that most people would probably not think of as music.
- Write a story about two characters: Noise and Music.
Writing Tips from Lisa
1. First, it’s essential to read widely in the genre in which you’re writing. Be
sure to read recently-published books, say, within the last five years, and
carefully study them. When you find ones you love, take a closer look. See
how the author sets up the story, notice any special techniques, such as
rhyme, repetition, or lyrical language, notice whether the ending reflects
the beginning…whatever resonates with you. See if you can identify the
heart of the story—the reason why the author wrote the book.
To find books, use the new books section of your library, subscribe to book
bloggers’ posts, read Publishers’ Weekly season previews—new and
exciting books are everywhere!
2. Read your work out loud. After more than 20 years of reading all day, every
day with children, I can make almost anything sound fantastic. But I’m not
always able to hear when my own writing doesn’t work. When I set it aside
for a week or so and then read it out loud, it’s easier to identify the clunky
parts, what I might be able to cut, or whether the story lacks that
emotional core that is required to not only sell the book but have readers
want to explore it again and again.
3. Share your work with critique partners. It can be hard to hear questions
and criticism about something you’ve poured your heart into. But if your
partners identify a hole in your work or have a question, young readers will
too. How to know when you need to rework something? If two or more
readers make similar observations, it’s time to take another look at your
manuscript. Every revision brings your work closer, because you’re thinking
of possibilities and trying them out.
4. Write not to trends, which likely will be outdated by the time your story
becomes published, but to what’s in your heart. It’s hard to find a new idea.
Yet once you develop your own unique response to that idea, your take
could be the key to writing something that holds meaning to you and
resonates with others—including agents and editors.
5. Unplug and spend time observing the world around you. Meditate on your
work in progress. Let your mind float. Keep something near you on which to
write and record any words, phrases, bits of story, or even the essential
heart of the story you’re working on. My best work often comes when I’m
not trying so hard to wrestle words on the page. Instead, I’m thinking about
why I’m writing the story and digging deep into its emotional core. I’ve
written words in the sand and scribbled on the backs of envelopes, and
sometimes, those scribbles become stories.
sure to read recently-published books, say, within the last five years, and
carefully study them. When you find ones you love, take a closer look. See
how the author sets up the story, notice any special techniques, such as
rhyme, repetition, or lyrical language, notice whether the ending reflects
the beginning…whatever resonates with you. See if you can identify the
heart of the story—the reason why the author wrote the book.
To find books, use the new books section of your library, subscribe to book
bloggers’ posts, read Publishers’ Weekly season previews—new and
exciting books are everywhere!
2. Read your work out loud. After more than 20 years of reading all day, every
day with children, I can make almost anything sound fantastic. But I’m not
always able to hear when my own writing doesn’t work. When I set it aside
for a week or so and then read it out loud, it’s easier to identify the clunky
parts, what I might be able to cut, or whether the story lacks that
emotional core that is required to not only sell the book but have readers
want to explore it again and again.
3. Share your work with critique partners. It can be hard to hear questions
and criticism about something you’ve poured your heart into. But if your
partners identify a hole in your work or have a question, young readers will
too. How to know when you need to rework something? If two or more
readers make similar observations, it’s time to take another look at your
manuscript. Every revision brings your work closer, because you’re thinking
of possibilities and trying them out.
4. Write not to trends, which likely will be outdated by the time your story
becomes published, but to what’s in your heart. It’s hard to find a new idea.
Yet once you develop your own unique response to that idea, your take
could be the key to writing something that holds meaning to you and
resonates with others—including agents and editors.
5. Unplug and spend time observing the world around you. Meditate on your
work in progress. Let your mind float. Keep something near you on which to
write and record any words, phrases, bits of story, or even the essential
heart of the story you’re working on. My best work often comes when I’m
not trying so hard to wrestle words on the page. Instead, I’m thinking about
why I’m writing the story and digging deep into its emotional core. I’ve
written words in the sand and scribbled on the backs of envelopes, and
sometimes, those scribbles become stories.
Links, More Fun, Extensions for Families and Everyone!
A spectacular resource book: Russell, Barry. “Everything we do is music:” Cross-curricular experiments in
sound based on the music of John Cage. Henmar Press/C.F. Peters, 2016.
An excellent article on John Cage and his influence (not written for kids; more to inform us as adults who may be teaching kids).
John Cage's Credo from his book Silence -- interesting reading to get "into his head" and understand why he did some of the things he did.
Pinterest board with a few photos, quotes, musical notation, etc. related to John Cage
YouTube playlist of John Cage music
sound based on the music of John Cage. Henmar Press/C.F. Peters, 2016.
An excellent article on John Cage and his influence (not written for kids; more to inform us as adults who may be teaching kids).
John Cage's Credo from his book Silence -- interesting reading to get "into his head" and understand why he did some of the things he did.
Pinterest board with a few photos, quotes, musical notation, etc. related to John Cage
YouTube playlist of John Cage music
PBJamz Snack
While we're talking about unique perspectives and unusual presentations, this seems like the perfect PBJ recipe for this episode -- Peanut butter and jelly bacon burger! You can find the recipe here or just begin somewhere and create your own version!
Guest Links and Giveaways
Lisa's website
Lisa's Twitter/X
Lisa's Instagram
To purchase BEAUTIFUL NOISE: THE MUSIC OF JOHN CAGE (Out October 10, 2023); Preorders available here
Lisa has graciously and generously offered winner's choice of either:
1. A picture book critique
OR
2. A classroom Zoom visit
Leave a comment below to be eligible. A winner will be drawn from all comments entered here within the deadline (Between 9/28/23 and 10/12/23
Lisa's Twitter/X
Lisa's Instagram
To purchase BEAUTIFUL NOISE: THE MUSIC OF JOHN CAGE (Out October 10, 2023); Preorders available here
Lisa has graciously and generously offered winner's choice of either:
1. A picture book critique
OR
2. A classroom Zoom visit
Leave a comment below to be eligible. A winner will be drawn from all comments entered here within the deadline (Between 9/28/23 and 10/12/23
PBJamz
This page is the official space for PBJamz -- multimedia Jamorama celebrating all things PB (picture books) and Jamz (music), although we'll indulge in the other PBJ snacks where appropriate :-). Join us each Thursday for new content connecting picture books and music!
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