Books about music for 8+

Set against the backdrop of the American Civil Rights movement, this formidable picture book explores the life of acclaimed Black singer and musician, Nina Simone. A thought-provoking, multi-layered tale.

An informative, fun and cool guide to 40 of the greatest musical acts of the modern era, perfect for any young fans keen to learn more about their favourite bands.

Mia is a secret superstar musician, writing song lyrics that her friends love. But in real life she’s bullied for being different. Is Mia ready to show the world who she really is?

This bumper guide to all things musical is packed full of weird, wonderful and fascinating music-related information. The chatty style, abundance of jokes and black-and-white illustrations make the book accessible to a range of readers.  

When Frankie starts secondary school, she wants to make friends and be cool, but also be herself and not be too different. How can she find her voice?

The second in Sharna Jackson’s High Rise Mystery books sees Nik and Norva return with another crime to solve on their home turf. 

Kofi is always coming up with ways to make money and when he discovers his friend Kelvin can remember every song lyric, it’s time to hit the big time! Funny and packed with brilliant dialogue, readers will fall for the irrepressible Kofi and his crazy schemes.

This stunning pencil-drawn graphic novel of talent, music and friendship will readers young and old. You’ll be rooting for KidGlovz, the nine-year-old musical prodigy: a poignant story to be remembered for a long time.

Author Stewart Foster – who also experienced hearing loss as a teenager – explores the challenges around disability and deafness, the ups and downs of changing friendships, and rediscovering your confidence when things take an expected turn. Sophie is highly relatable and this is a sensitively told and emotionally engaging character-driven story.

This funny, engaging, body-swap adventure explores fandom, friendship and empathy via an unmissable dance competition, viral videos and throwing away the school rule book. 

Nimra battles to understand her interpretation of Islam and whether it allows her to sing in a band or not. It is refreshing to find a book written by an author who understands the complexity of relationships between three generations from a Muslim immigrant heritage. 

Can Mac and his new friend Flynn create a musical to save their teachers? Pulsing with a love of music, this is funny and heart-warming – and a call to save the arts in education.