This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Free Book Program, which is open to all readers and is completely free. The author will provide you with a free copy of their book in exchange for an honest review. You and the author will discuss what sites you will post your review to and what kind of copy of the book you would like to receive (eBook, PDF, Word, paperback, etc.). To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email.
This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Review Exchange Program, which is open to all authors and is completely free. Simply put, you agree to provide an honest review an author's book in exchange for the author doing the same for you. What sites your reviews are posted on (B&N, Amazon, etc.) and whether you send digital (eBook, PDF, Word, etc.) or hard copies of your books to each other for review is up to you. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email, and be sure to describe your book or include a link to your Readers' Favorite review page or Amazon page.
This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Donation Program, which was created to help nonprofit and charitable organizations (schools, libraries, convalescent homes, soldier donation programs, etc.) by providing them with free books and to help authors garner more exposure for their work. This author is willing to donate free copies of their book in exchange for reviews (if circumstances allow) and the knowledge that their book is being read and enjoyed. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email. Be sure to tell the author who you are, what organization you are with, how many books you need, how they will be used, and the number of reviews, if any, you would be able to provide.
Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite
In The Sound of Steelpan, Andrea Coke brings readers into Simon’s world. He’s a lively and curious boy who happens upon a musical journey right in the garage while trying to avoid doing his chores. Bored with tidying the garage, Simon turns an old bucket into a makeshift drum using marbles, gumballs, and even action figures—only to discover that his dad once played a real instrument called the steelpan. As his father shares the story of the steelpan's origins in Trinidad and Tobago and even reveals his past as a performer, Simon becomes captivated by both the sound and the culture behind it. He learns about an incredible instrument, finds a new appreciation for his family’s roots, and cleverly avoids cleaning.
Andrea Coke’s writing flows naturally and keeps a great pace, driven by Simon’s playful antics and infectious imagination. She does an excellent job of blending humor, family bonding, and cultural education without losing the attention of young readers. Simon is relatable and funny, while his father offers warmth and pride that feels authentic and heartfelt. The Sound of Steelpan also includes a helpful fact page about the steelpan, turning this into both a story and learning. Luis Peres’s illustrations perfectly match the tone of the book. His art is bright, expressive, and dynamic, especially in the scenes where Simon experiments with sound. The vibrant garage scenes and whimsical musical moments capture the energy and rhythm of Simon’s world, making the steelpan feel magical. This fun and lively story is great for children ages 4–10. The Sound of Steelpan is both entertaining and educational—a joyful celebration of music, heritage, and creativity that deserves a spot on any family or classroom bookshelf.
