There’s something magical about introducing young children to the world of reading and music simultaneously. Sigal Magen’s Early Readers - Who Plays the Piano? (part of the Fun Time Series) is a delightful, interactive book that does just that—blending simple storytelling with musical curiosity. Designed for kids aged 3-5 and beginner readers (4-8), this book is a charming addition to any child’s first library.
As a parent, educator, or caregiver, you’ve likely searched for books that engage young minds while fostering a love for reading. This book stands out not just for its playful narrative but also for its ability to make learning feel like an adventure. But does it hit all the right notes? Let’s dive in.
Who Plays the Piano? follows a simple yet engaging premise: a group of children (and some animal friends!) discover a piano playing by itself. Who could be the mysterious musician? The book takes young readers on a journey of discovery, introducing different characters who might—or might not—be the ones tickling the ivories.
Without giving away too much, the story unfolds in a rhythmic, repetitive structure that reinforces early reading skills while keeping kids guessing. The resolution is sweet, satisfying, and just surprising enough to delight young imaginations.
One of the book’s strengths is its relatable and diverse cast. The children in the story are curious, playful, and full of wonder—qualities that mirror real-life young readers. The animal characters (no spoilers!) add an extra layer of whimsy, making the story feel like a playful game of hide-and-seek.
What stands out is how Sigal Magen gives each character a distinct personality without overcomplicating the text. A child who loves music might see themselves in one character, while another might relate to the little detective trying to solve the mystery.
Magen’s writing is perfectly tailored for early readers. The sentences are short, rhythmic, and often repetitive—ideal for reinforcing word recognition. The use of questions (“Is it the cat? Is it the dog?”) encourages interaction, making it a great read-aloud book for parents and teachers.
The illustrations (bright, colorful, and expressive) complement the text beautifully, helping young readers follow along even if they’re still decoding words. The book also employs predictable patterns, a key technique in early literacy that builds confidence in new readers.
At its core, Who Plays the Piano? is about curiosity, discovery, and the joy of music. But it also subtly teaches:
For parents hoping to nurture a love of music alongside reading, this book is a fantastic starting point.
I read this with my 4-year-old, and the experience was pure joy. The interactive nature of the book (“Who do YOU think is playing?”) kept her engaged, and the repetition helped her recognize words quickly. By the third read, she was “reading” along with me—a proud moment for any parent!
The emotional impact? Pure delight. The giggles when guessing wrong, the excitement at the reveal—it’s the kind of book that makes bedtime reading feel like playtime.
Compared to other early reader series like Elephant & Piggie (Mo Willems) or Biscuit (Alyssa Satin Capucilli), Who Plays the Piano? holds its own with its musical twist. While some early readers focus solely on phonics or humor, this book adds an extra layer of sensory engagement—music!—making it unique.
That said, it’s simpler than, say, Pete the Cat, so it’s best for very early readers or as a read-aloud for toddlers.
✔ Perfect for early literacy – Simple, repetitive, and engaging.
✔ Interactive elements – Encourages guessing and participation.
✔ Bright, appealing illustrations – Helps visual learners follow along.
✔ Musical theme – Introduces instruments in a fun way.
❌ Very basic for older beginners – If your child is already reading short chapter books, this might feel too simple.
❌ Limited plot depth – It’s a short, sweet story, not an epic adventure.
“Tap, tap, tap! Who plays the piano?”
This recurring line becomes a fun chant, inviting kids to clap along or guess the next possibility.
Ready to add this musical gem to your child’s library? Grab your copy here:
Amazon
Early Readers - Who Plays the Piano? is a charming, interactive book that blends early literacy with musical curiosity. While it’s not a complex story, its simplicity is its strength—making it an ideal choice for toddlers and brand-new readers.
If you’re looking for a book that will have your child giggling, guessing, and maybe even pretending to play the piano afterward, this one’s a must-have.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5) – A delightful read that strikes just the right note!
What about you? Have you read this with a little one? Did they guess who was playing the piano? Share your thoughts in the comments! 🎹📖
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