Randy Preston – författare

This third book by the team that created the New York Times bestselling How to Read a Book and How to Write a Poem celebrates the magic of listening to the song that echoes inside you, and letting your music ring out. Hush.Now, turn up your ears and listen to the concert happening all around you.As this quiet overture builds to a full symphony, Newbery Medalist Kwame Alexander and singer-songwriter Randy Preston conduct a melody of a poem. Colorful notes are played by Caldecott Honoree Melissa Sweet’s distinctive artwork.Surrounded by nature’s chorus and guided by words that vibrate like thunder, let the groove lead you on, until you can’t help but sing out from your soul!How to Read a Book was an American Library Association Notable Book and was named a best book of the year by School Library Journal, Kirkus, and The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books. How to Write a Poem was a New York Times Best Illustrated Book and a School Library Journal Best Book of the Year.

A joyous celebration of drums, heartbeats, and the bond between mother and child, by acclaimed African American musician Randy PrestonBass drum, steel pan, snare . . . is there any kind of drum this little boy’s mom can’t play? For as long as he can remember, drums have been a big part of their life together. And whether in the living room, the park, or the concert hall, he loves grooving with her. There’s something so soothing and special in the beat of each and every drum, which makes him wonder, what was the very first drum he heard?With rhythmic language mimicking the sounds of drumbeats and joyful illustrations illuminating the feeling of connection they create, this is a unique celebration of music—and motherhood—that families will treasure.

Discover the magic behind the scenes!Oscar dreams of being in the spotlight, but when the lead role in the school play goes to someone else, he finds himself in an unexpected role—stage manager. Disappointed and unsure, Oscar wonders: can you still be a star if no one sees you? With encouragement from family and friends, Oscar learns about all the amazing people who shine from behind the scenes—like vice presidents, nurses, and even drummers. As Oscar works to keep things going backstage, he realizes that being backstage doesn’t mean being invisible. It means being indispensable. Why kids will love Bravo for Backstage!:Uniquely pairs an online musical performance kit with an illustrated story Engaging storytelling features an uplifting lesson on handling disappointment and recognizing the value of every role Celebrates teamwork and the behind-the-scenes heroes who make the magic happen   When the curtains close and the audience cheers, Oscar finally understands: stars don’t just shine in the spotlight—they shine where they’re needed most. The Mini-Musical Tales from Bird Mountain School picture book series seamlessly blends literature and the performing arts, offering an immersive storytelling experience. Each book provides online access to a script and original song recordings, allowing readers to bring the story to life as a mini musical—just like the characters in the book. This innovative series fosters creativity, imagination, and a love for the arts, making storytelling a truly interactive adventure.

An egg-citing tale of teamwork!Oh no! Lady Cluckery has run away! The students in Dr. Preston’s class know they need to find her—before the bell rings to dismiss them for the weekend. They’ll have to split up if they want to find mama chicken and care for her eggs until they hatch. Working together, they find Lady Cluckery in the costume closet, of all places.Why kids will love Chicken PredicamentUniquely pairs an online musical performance kit with an illustrated storyEngaging storytelling features characters with creative problem-solving skillsEncourages teamwork to tackle big challenges Thanks to these “plucky” students, Lady Cluckery returns, just in time for the arrival of Hatch, Chirp, and Peep.A 2026 KIDS FAVORITE & TEACHER FAVORITE!The Mini-Musical Tales from Bird Mountain School picture series seamlessly blends literature and the performing arts, offering an immersive storytelling experience. Each book provides online access to a script and original song recordings, allowing readers to bring the story to life as a mini musical—just like the characters in the book. This innovative series fosters creativity, imagination, and a love for the arts, making storytelling a truly interactive adventure.