Marsh Music

Nice story that grows with the child--includes actual frog species nam (smaller print, unobtrusive)

Love how this book teaches kids musical terminology as well as marsh environment! Perfect book for an artistic family that lives pretty much on a swamp :)

As the author of this book, I'm proud to share the reviews from December "School Library Journal" and "Booklist." School Library Journal Review: "PreS-Gr3 - As night falls on the pond, an unusual orchestra assembles. As fireflies light up the stage, Maestro bullfrog leads the chorus frogs, spring peepers, American toads, and others in an outdoor symphony. Berkes incorporates sounds such as "woink-woink" and "twang" into the rhythmic text that recreates the atmosphere of a lazy summer evening. Noreika's watercolor illustrations bring to life the amphibious musicians as well as the other animals in the audience. Shades of green, brown and blue capture the watery setting. A glossary of musical terms Berkes uses in her concert decription provides helpful definitions. She also offers a brief paragraph about each kind of frog and toad appearing in "the cast." MARSH MUSIC has the visual and verbal pizzazz to make it a read-it-again treat."From Booklist:"Ages 5-8. Berkes turns the night songs of all kinds of frogs into a concert, with a bullfrog, Maestro, assuming the role of conductor. As the illustrations move from twilight to dawn, Maestro supervises a symphony of frogs plunking spiders webs, playing pond instruments, and making sounds ("woink-woink-woink," "gronk-gronk-gronk") that illustrate tempo, from moderato to animato. Noreika's watercolor paintings of marsh life--plants, animals, insects, and even mist--are stunningly detailed and luminous. They perfectly complement this book about nature and music, brought together by the singing talents of frogs. An entertaining way to teach children about both nature and music. A glossary of musical terms, and descriptions of the frog musicians are appended."

The author came to our school and shared her book with the K-2nd graders. She was awesome, not only did she read and talk about her book but, she also did other stories about frogs and incorporated music. The program actively involved the students. The students and teachers loved the story time , and the book. The way she incorporated real facts about frogs with musical terms was great. The illustrations are excellent. The storyline along with the illustrations make this book a real keeper. If you have a chance to have Marianne come to your school or library you will be most pleased and provide your students or patrons with a rich experience. She will also sign books for you.

So enjoyed reading this to my son....entertaining and clever.

Berkes masterfully integrates music and nature in this entertaining story. Thoroughly educational on all types of amphibians, as well as musical terminology. Berkes's excellent word choices and rhythmic language engrosses the reader while the outstanding watercolor illustrations captivate the mind. Although the reading level states K - 3rd grade, this high content book can be enlightening to all ages. As a high school educator, I have recommended this book to environmental science and music teachers. Considering the ending, I eagerly anticipate a sequel to this book.

Kudos to first time author, Marianne Berkes, on Marsh Music. Berkes smoothly incorporates so many components beneficial for children: terrific writing, a great rhythm/lyrical quality, interesting subject matter, educational information, and imaginative illustrations to support the story.As a high school English teacher, I am not only encouraging the elementary schools in my district to purchase this book, I am using it to demonstrate and encourage the writing of poetry in my own classes.As a mother, I can attest to children's genuine enjoyment of the book.We look forward to your next book!

As a Media Specialist I found the book to be exactly what children enjoy. It has the right combination of beautiful illustrations with words that have a lyrical, almost musical quality. It engages children both visually and auditorily. As a Floridian I found it entertaining to read a book about the all to familiar sounds of this great state. All in all I think this is a lovely addition to any library and/or thematic unit on frogs/amphibians.