Picture books have a magical way of introducing children to the wonders of the world, and when combined with music, they create an even more captivating experience. “Animal Songs” are a delightful genre within children’s literature, bringing together the charm of animals with the rhythm and joy of music. One such gem is “The Animal Song” by Jonty Howley, a book that not only tells a story but also feels like a song itself. Let’s dive into this book and explore why animal songs resonate so deeply with young readers.
“The Animal Song” tells the story of a traveling band composed of three talented animal musicians: a crocodile on the snare drum, a big brown bear playing the bass, and a weasel strumming a banjo. Together, they journey through the woods, sharing their music with other animals. Published by Random House Studio on January 10, 2023, this book is a vibrant celebration of music and animal camaraderie.
The Origin of “The Animal Song”: From Sketch to Song
In an interview, author Jonty Howley shared the inspiration behind “The Animal Song.” It began with a simple sketch, sparked by 1950s jazz posters. He initially drew an animal trio, sensing a story within them. About a year later, he revisited this idea and developed it into the book we see today. Howley intentionally wrote the book to have a song-like quality, maintaining a constant rhythm throughout the narrative. Adding to the immersive experience, he even created a free song and read-along version available on his website.
Why Animal Songs Picture Books Captivate Children
The appeal of “animal songs” in picture books lies in their ability to combine two elements that are inherently engaging for children: animals and music. Animals are a constant source of fascination for kids, offering a sense of wonder and connection to the natural world. Music, on the other hand, is universally appealing, stimulating auditory senses and promoting emotional expression and rhythm recognition from a young age.
Books like “The Animal Song” leverage this powerful combination to create stories that are not only entertaining but also educational and emotionally enriching. They can introduce children to different animal species, musical instruments, and the concept of storytelling through rhythm and melody.
Exploring More Musical Picture Books with Animals
Jonty Howley himself is a fan of picture books that celebrate music and animals. He mentions a beloved Little Golden Book version of “The Musicians of Bremen,” praising the art of John Parr (J.P.) Miller for capturing the energy and joy of music. “The Musicians of Bremen” is a classic fairy tale featuring a donkey, dog, cat, and rooster who set out to become musicians in Bremen, showcasing another example of animal characters and musical themes interwoven in children’s literature.
When asked about other picture books he admires, Howley highlighted “The Mouse Who Carried a House on His Back” by Jonathan Stutzman and Isabelle Arsenault, noting its stunning mixed-media illustrations. While not explicitly focused on “animal songs,” it demonstrates the broader appreciation for beautifully illustrated and imaginative animal-centric stories within the picture book community.
Jonty Howley’s Picture Book Recommendations
For those seeking more picture book recommendations, Jonty Howley shared a handful of his all-time favorites:
- “The Dangerous Journey” by Tove Jansson
- “Peter’s Chair” by Ezra Jack Keats
- “Out, Out, Away From Here” by Rachel Woodworth and Sang Miao
- “The Musicians of Bremen” illustrated by J.P. Miller
- “The Animal Fair” by Alice and Martin Provensen
- “Grandad’s Island” by Benji Davies
- “Shackleton’s Journey” by William Grill
These books represent a diverse range of styles and themes, but all share the common thread of exceptional storytelling and visual artistry, qualities also found in “The Animal Song.”
Conclusion: The Lasting Appeal of Animal Songs
“Animal songs” picture books like Jonty Howley’s “The Animal Song” offer a unique and engaging way to introduce children to the joys of reading and music. By combining captivating animal characters with rhythmic and melodic narratives, these books create memorable and enriching experiences for young readers. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or simply a lover of children’s literature, exploring the world of animal songs is a journey filled with delightful discoveries.
