SALLY'S MUSICAL TALE

A snake longs to play the piano despite her physical limitations in Pova’s picture book.

Sally, a green snake who wears a red bandanna with orange polka dots, has “a fine ear for music and a daring dream to be a pianist.” Though Sally’s lack of limbs seemingly renders her dream hopeless, she refuses to give up. When she sees a poster advertising a “Musically Amazing Talent Show,” Sally decides she must enter. Despite practicing and practicing, she “couldn’t stretch across an octave, and she couldn’t slither quickly enough for a concerto.” Sally goes to multiple renowned teachers to improve her technique, with each declaring her to be unteachable. Undeterred, Sally turns to her musician friends, who suggest other instruments, “but Sally wasn’t interested. She longed to play the piano.” She consults her snake sisters and comes up with a solution: She and her sisters will play together. Pova’s story has a wonderful message: Sally perseveres against all odds and accepts help to solve a problem. Unfortunately, the text is small and can occasionally be difficult to read, especially when the backgrounds are darker. Zhang’s screen print–style illustrations are stunning, conveying the action in a playful, charming way. The vibrant color palette and adorable animals will keep kids engaged as they internalize the uplifting message.

A lovely story that underscores the importance of determination, teamwork, and creative problem-solving.