This is a book about a boy, his imagination, and the amazing music he makes with two sticks. Max uses his two sticks to tap out a variety of rhythmic patterns that he hears all around him in his neighborhood: pigeons startled into flight, rain tapping against a window, a train thundering down the elevated track. Read it with your kids and then encourage them to tap out the patterns they hear in their world.

Age range: 4 to 8

Educational value: This book supports early algebraic thinking – making and replicating patterns. Additionally, it encourages creative thinking and imaginative play.