This brief history of music was intriguing and help my daughter's interest. It is a nice educational non-fiction read and would be a great addition to a science unit or for a child interested in learning more about music.

We get "science of sound" books occasionally that are largely focused on the simple mechanics of sound - vibrations, the ear drum, etc. That is certainly present in this book. But it's so much more. We learn about harmonics, about the cultural and psychological elements of music, assorted technologies used to created and record music. Cross absolutely does not skimp on the details. You'll learn a great deal just by skimming. I could see this as a resource that a budding scientist returns to often.

This is a great look at the evolution of sound and music, including our ways of listening to music, our uses of sound, the technology, and the science. The addition of the "playlist" on each page is a fun addition that will encourage readers to explore new music and add to the reading experience!

Thank you to NetGalley and Kids Can Press for the ARC.

This accessible title for kids is a fine survey on many aspects of music’s production from its beginnings over 40,000 years ago to today. Ways in which music has evolved includes everything from the materials used to make instruments, to how we listen. For example, in the past, one had to be physically present to hear music. This evolved over time to radio, records and life now where any musical piece can be located through one’s computer or other device like an ipad. This evolution is the subject of much of this short title.

Understand more about why you like certain music. Find out the name and story of the “Man” who “changed music forever.” There are short playslists included as well as a timeline and glossary.

This book provides an intriguing, easy way for children to understand more about music’s evolution over time.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Love it! This book explores the history of music and the studies that have taught us about it's influence. I loved the interesting facts- there were so many things I didn't know or hadn't thought about. The tone is humorous and upbeat and keeps it interesting throughout, informational without becoming textbook-y. The "playlist" was a great addition too, giving you a taste of many different songs. A great informational book for exploring music without going into weighty music theory matters.

Thanks NetGalley 👍

A brief history of song from prehistoric man to modern day, complete with illustrations and a three-song playlist for every section. It is such a fun book for all ages and I learned a lot reading through the pages of this book.

Explaining science and history of sound and music, this mixed styled illustrated book takes you on a journey to understand what makes you want to snap your fingers, bob your head and swing your hips.

A wonderful non-fiction read about the evolution of music and how we have consumed it throughout history. Each chapter builds on the previous with new inventions, explaining past technologies to young readers. Additionally, each section contains a 3 song Playlist that shows popular songs from years past. It was interesting getting to see how much music has evolved over the years.

Thank you to NetGalley and Kids Can Press for an advanced electronic copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

A nonfiction book for children and music lovers of any age, "The Science of Song" talks about how music is made, how we hear it, how our musical preferences are formed, and so much more!

I requested this book as a music teacher looking for something to appeal to my students. Though I have not been able to implement it in my lessons just yet, this book is full of easy to understand information that I think kids would love. One of the best parts is how each section has an accompanying playlist, so there are multiple examples to help deliver the message. This is so fun, and could be a great addition to a variety of lessons!

A very good, if light, look at the science and history of music, for the upper end of primary school audiences. We go back to prehistory and the first singing and instruments other than parts of the human body, before coming quickly up to date to cover the history of recorded music formats, alongside some of the psychology over what musical tastes we have and how we respond to muzak in shops, etc. Suitably dynamic pages are still easily readable, and the level of detail and complexity is fine for the target audience, so I can see this having an easy route to success. I'm not sure the playlist suggestions were exactly relevant a lot of the time, though.