“Snap! Poom-poom! Jingle-Jangle!” These lively sounds leap from the pages of Jonty Howley’s delightful picture book, “The Animal Song”, a story that celebrates music and the joy it brings to both performers and audiences. As a content creator for payoffsong.com, I’m always on the lookout for engaging and enriching content, and “The Animal Song” hits all the right notes.
This charming tale introduces us to a trio of talented animal musicians: a crocodile on snare drums, a big brown bear playing bass, and a weasel strumming a banjo. Together, they form a traveling band, bringing their animal songs and musical merriment to all the creatures of the woods. Published by Random House Studio in January 2023, this book is more than just a story; it’s an invitation to explore rhythm, melody, and the universal language of music through the eyes of endearing animal characters.
In an interview, author Jonty Howley shared the origin of “The Animal Song”, revealing that it began with a simple sketch inspired by 1950s jazz posters. This initial illustration of an animal music group sparked an idea that lay dormant for a year before blossoming into the full story we see today. Howley emphasizes the book’s rhythmic nature, designed to feel like a song itself. Adding another layer of engagement, he even created a free song and read-along version available on his website, further enhancing the animal song experience for young readers.
The vibrant illustrations in “The Animal Song”, with their playful characters and dynamic compositions, are a key part of its charm. Even in an early interior spread, the energy and movement of the animal band are palpable. This visual storytelling is crucial for engaging young children and bringing the concept of animal songs to life.
When asked about other picture books that celebrate music, Howley recommends “The Musicians of Bremen,” a Little Golden Book edition illustrated by John Parr Miller. He praises Miller’s ability to capture the “energy and joy of music,” a quality that resonates strongly with the spirit of “The Animal Song”. This connection highlights the timeless appeal of musical stories for children.
Looking ahead to forthcoming books, Howley expressed anticipation for “The Mouse Who Carried a House on His Back,” praising its potential to become a classic and admiring its mixed media illustrations. This demonstrates his continued engagement with and passion for the world of children’s picture books, and his understanding of what makes a story truly special.
Finally, when asked to list some of his all-time favorite picture books, Howley shared a diverse selection, including “The Dangerous Journey,” “Peter’s Chair,” and “Out, Out, Away From Here,” alongside musical titles like “The Animal Fair.” This curated list gives readers further insight into the kinds of stories that inspire him and the high standards he holds for children’s literature.
“The Animal Song” is a vibrant and tuneful addition to the world of children’s picture books. Its focus on animal songs and musical instruments makes it an excellent choice for parents and educators looking to introduce young children to the joys of music. Jonty Howley has created a book that is not only entertaining but also subtly educational, encouraging rhythm and appreciation for different sounds. Whether you’re a fan of animal songs or simply seeking a heartwarming and musically rich story, “The Animal Song” is sure to be a hit. Consider adding this book to your collection and let the animal song melodies fill your reading time with joy!
