THE BAND IN OUR BASEMENT, by Kelly J. Baptist and Jenin Mohammed, Harry N. Abrams, Nov. 12, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)
It’s bedtime for a brother and sister, but who can sleep when there’s an awesome beat? Find out what happens in The Band in Our Basement, by Kelly J. Baptist and Jenin Mohammed.
The sounds downstairs are funky
and we start to wiggle toes.
We flip-flop and we giggle
with sheets up to the nose.
The rhythm’s steady, the trumpet’s sweet.
Before too long, we’re on our feet!
After hearing Daddy’s band practicing in the basement, a brother and sister can’t resist sneaking out of bed to watch them play. Careful, careful, can’t be caught. Tiptoe past the squeaky spot!
They long to join in the fun, but can’t be seen out of bed—until the discovery of a surprise band member turns the jam session into a family affair. —Synopsis provided by Harry N. Abrams
The Band in Our Basement is a celebration of music, particularly jazz. And just like the music that rings throughout, author Kelly J. Baptist’s animated text has a delightful rhythm. It’s the sort of prose you want to read aloud. Jenin Mohammed’s print collage and digital illustrations piggyback on that energy with bright color and movement. This is a delightful bedtime story.
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