THE DAY THE INSTRUMENTS SPLIT!

In this picture book, instruments in a music shop refuse to get along.

In a quaint little town can be found a music shop populated by anthropomorphic instruments who love nothing more than to play music together. But from the flutes and guitars to the percussion and strings, all are highly susceptible to the outlandish ideas swept in on the coattails of the Slimy Musician. He immediately insists that all the instruments play separately: “How can maracas shake when drums are drumming? How can pianos play when guitars are strumming?” The instruments take his criticism to heart; their ensuing strife is so disruptive that it turns the diverse town upside down. Clocks don’t work; popcorn doesn’t pop; and only a piano named Lyric is ready to take on the problem. Lyric calls on her friends, who suggest bringing all of the feuding instruments to the Master at a free concert that night. It’s only when the Master encourages the instruments to put aside their differences that music returns to the town. This is Lyric’s second adventure and Bursey’s newest book since The Little Piano (2018). The enjoyable tale skillfully teaches young readers the importance of diversity and collaboration, though the lesson would be stronger if the conflict were initiated more naturally. Shull’s vibrant illustrations are reminiscent of a rambunctious animated television show for children, with curving bodies, eyebrows, and large eyes conveying huge expressions.

An engaging music-themed tale for preschoolers who need a simple lesson about unity.