Common Sense Media Review
By Susan Faust
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
A stunning homage to the history of Black music in America.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
The history of Black music in America is presented in HOW SWEET THE SOUND: A SOUNDTRACK FOR AMERICA. Beginning on the plains of Africa with chants, drums, and dance, the story unfolds in vibrant art and free-verse poems that acknowledge the work songs of enslavement; uplifting gospels; Congo Square dances; Memphis blues and juke box joints; jazz, ragtime, and soul; electric innovators "who rocked us around the clock"; music of love, freedom, and change; reggae and rumba; country and folk music; and more. The conclusion of this history makes the point that the music of Black America is about refuge and redemption, about people surviving and thriving and learning to love themselves by "singing it LOUD and PROUD." Extensive back matter adds information about specific references in the text and art: many musical styles, regional influences, well-known musicians and performers, and specific musical works.
Is It Any Good?
Free-verse poems and vibrant paintings converge in this stunning nonfiction picture book that connects long struggle and expressive genius to capture the essence of Black music in America. Many musical styles, regional influences, well-known musicians and performers, and specific musical works are boldly presented in How Sweet the Sound: A Soundtrack for America. The book is more of an homage to Black music in America than a detailed introduction, the best introduction being the music itself—a playlist for this book would be amazing! Those familiar with some of the music will more easily connect with its historical context and deep emotion. While some readers will be able to fully access the story independently, many kids will derive greater meaning if experiencing the book with adults as a co-read. Beyond sharing their love of Black history and music, author Kwame Alexander and illustrator Charly Palmer together evoke pride for Black readers and deep appreciation for everyone else.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about How Sweet the Sound and discuss what music means for them. What style do you like? Why?
Do you play an instrument or sing, either by yourself or in a group? If so, how does making music make you feel?
Music is about communication. It tells stories and expresses emotion. Think of a favorite piece of music. What's it about? How does it make you feel?
The development of Black music in America required curiosity, courage, perseverance, and compassion. Where in the book did you see these character strengths? How can music help people develop these character strengths?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Charly Palmer
- Genre : Picture Book
- Topics : Activism , Arts ( Music and Sing-Along ) , History
- Character Strengths : Communication , Compassion , Courage , Curiosity , Perseverance
- Book type : Non-Fiction
- Publisher : Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
- Publication date : January 7, 2025
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 4 - 8
- Number of pages : 48
- Available on : Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback
- Awards : ALA Best and Notable Books , Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : March 19, 2026
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate