Sounds of Trash from Steamworks

 

Sounds of Trash

by Tina Athaide

Illustrated by Neha Rawat

Expected Publication August, 2026

Charlesbridge

Fiction

Hardcover

40 Pages

Review copy provided by publisher

Summary From Publisher 

Join Pran and his friends in an exploration of sound and the engineering design process, because STEAM is everywhere and for everyone!

Part of STEAMWORKS, a series of fiction picture books for ages 4-7 that relate science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) to kids’ everyday lives.

When Pran and his friends learn that the neighborhood block party is moved to the park where it won’t have music, they are determined to find a way for it to be part of the celebration. After some trial and error, and more than a few prototypes made from recyclables, they are ready to engineer their way to a jazzy, bhangra-filled day!

Extend the learning beyond the story with expertly crafted back matter, including additional information about sound and the engineering design process and fun STEAM activities.

STEAMWORKS features children of all backgrounds and abilities using scientific and mathematical thinking to solve everyday problems and answer questions that matter to them. Playful stories and extension activities ignite excitement for science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) and empower children as thinkers, problem solvers, and innovators.

My Thoughts

Teachers are always asking me for picture books that show examples of using teamwork to reach a goal. This is one I will be recommending. Pran and pals use recycled items to make items that make musical sounds. Throughout the book, readers are exposed to musical vocabulary such as bhangra, vibration, twang, percussion, and more. 

The backmatter contains a short glossary and information about the science of sound. A visual cycle of an engineering design process shows readers how engineers design and modify designs. Then, readers are given suggestions to expand on the content of the books by counting, playing, and exploring further.  

Characters are depicted with various skin colors and features, suggesting that they are different races and from various cultures. 

Image from Amazon.com

Sounds of Trash is a great book to read any time, but especially during units on recycling, Earth Day, neighborhoods, and music.