Why do we sing?

Married musicians Tsui and Breves share a commercial-leaning survey of the connective potential of music in this picture book debut. As rhyming text lists ways music can express and share emotions, two adult caretakers, a child, and their cat travel the world observing different musical styles in art that relies heavily on symbolic images to suggest musical genres. On one page, a mustachioed gondolier sings from their boat, while other images depict a robed choir, a barrel-chested yodeler in lederhosen, and mariachis in traditional costume. Amplifying the text's joyful tenor, Tsui's illustrations feature smiling characters with a range of skin tones alongside glowing musical notes. Concluding with a call to action ("What will YOU sing?"), this sampling of visually suggested styles leans inspirational rather than informative. Ages 4--8. (Apr.)

YouTubers, singers/composers, and married couple Tsui and Breves urge readers to let their voices ring out. The authors pose the titular question and, in bouncy, lilting verse, provide brief, thought-provoking answers. Tsui's colorful, energetic digital illustrations depict two men (one appears white, the other presents Asian), a young Black child, and a cat--likely stand-ins for the authors and their family--in scenes that take them all over the world. It's obvious that singing has a universal appeal; ability isn't mentioned as a prerequisite. From the outset, Tsui and Breves make it clear that the titular we doesn't necessarily refer only to themselves, but to a collective group--i.e., everyone everywhere--and that the word do can also mean should. Perhaps the book is a response to a question asked by an actual child (the authors' or another); it's a simple enough query but a meaningful one. This spirited offering delivers good answers. The book affirms that singing, whether performed individually or in a group, can convey feelings of love, happiness, strength, belonging, remembrance, prayer, fun, and much more. We can sing old and new songs indoors, outdoors, even in the shower. The authors conclude by declaring that not only is every song important, but they can't wait to hear from YOU! Following a read-aloud, children should be strongly encouraged to give their vocal chops a hearty workout. Background characters are racially and culturally diverse. We're singing the praises of this joyful charmer. (Picture book. 4-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.