Behind the Song
What’s inside...
A song to match everyone's heartbeat. A soaring melody, a pulse-pounding beat, a touching lyric: Music takes a moment and makes it a memory. It’s a universal language that can capture love, heartbreak, loss, soul searching, and wing spreading—all in the span of a few notes. In Behind the Song, fourteen acclaimed young adult authors and musicians share short stories and personal essays inspired by the songs, the albums, the musicians who move them. So cue up the playlist and crank the volume. This is an anthology you’ll want to experience on repeat.
Age
14-17
Length
400 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do the stories in 'Behind the Song' show the power of music in expressing emotions and experiences?
What are some ways the artists in the book overcame challenges during their creative process?
Can you think of a time when a song deeply resonated with you or helped you through a tough situation?
Which artist's journey in the book inspired you the most and why?
How does this book change or enhance your understanding of what it takes to create music?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own experience with a song that has a special meaning in your life. This can help set a relaxed atmosphere and encourage openness.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child’s responses to the key questions to dig deeper into their thoughts and feelings about the book.
Encourage your child to relate the stories from the book to their own experiences with music, whether it’s listening or creating, to personalize the discussion.
Use the themes of resilience and creativity from the book to connect with your child’s everyday life, discussing how they can use these lessons in school or in their hobbies.
Praise your child's insights and emotions expressed during the discussion, fostering a supportive environment that encourages future conversations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The power of self-expression through art
Explanation: The anthology showcases different musicians and writers expressing themselves through their unique songs and stories, highlighting how art can serve as a powerful medium for personal expression.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to explore various forms of art to express their feelings and experiences, enhancing emotional intelligence and creativity.
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: Several contributors in the book discuss the challenges and obstacles they faced during their creative process, demonstrating the importance of perseverance in achieving goals.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the value of persistence in schoolwork, hobbies, or relationships, teaching them not to give up despite difficulties.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding diverse perspectives
Explanation: The book provides insights into the different backgrounds and stories of each artist, promoting an understanding and appreciation for diverse life experiences and viewpoints.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect people from different cultures and backgrounds, promoting inclusive behavior and reducing prejudice.
Example Lesson: Collaboration and networking
Explanation: Several stories in the book reveal how artists collaborate with others in the industry, underscoring the significance of building connections and working together to create something impactful.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of teamwork and networking, skills that are valuable in school projects, sports, and other group activities.