I must admit, I was very intrigued when I first heard the idea for Amazing Water, a new book with accompanying CD that introduces kids to classical music and the way that water -- namely, rivers, oceans, the canals of Venice -- has inspired composers since, well, forever.
We've all heard by now how classical music is good for little brains (whether it actually makes them smarter, by the way, is debatable). But I wondered if this book could really hold the attention of kids who aren't crib-bound, and can wander off when they get bored with Bach or Beethoven.
But, to my surprise, once I hit play on the CD and opened up to the gorgeous illustrations, that puff of doubt wafted right out the window.
The illustrations are so richly detailed and evocative, the music so exquisite and perfectly paired with each picture, it creates the ideal space for experiential learning. And, some much-needed relaxation.
Related: How to foster a love of music in your little kids
Written by Ana Gerhard, a concert pianist at the Mexican National Conservatory, the book comes with a CD of 20 different short musical excerpts, each with text explaining the body of water that inspired it, a glossary of musical terms, and quick biographies of each composer. Oh and did I mention the g-o-r-g-e-o-u-s illustrations? We think this would make a perfect graduation gift for any child, old or young. But we especially love it for new readers who can follow along independently. Although we pretty much guarantee you won't mind listening to it over and over, and over again, either. Amazing Water will be available on June 10 but you can pre-order it now from our affiliate Amazon.
