A steel drum player is the Pied Piper luring the rats out of Harlem. Vibrant and colorful illustrations with highly expressive faces.

When the Steel Pan Man comes to rid Harlem of its rat problem, he thinks that he and the Mayor have a deal. When the Mayor reneges on the agreement, however, he teaches the importance of keeping your word. This retelling of "The Pied Piper of Hamelin" is set in the Harlem Renaissance. Jazzy, impressionistic pictures accompany the text, evoking the music that the Steel Pan Man plays and the spirit of the Harlem Renaissance. The font used to set the text also complements the story and illustrations well, and is laid out well on the page. This rendition is not as dark as the original story, making it suitable for a younger audience. Recommended for kindergarten to second grade as a read-aloud, and third through fifth grades as an independent read. ( )

As spellbinding music lures the rats out of Harlem and out onto a garbage barge, the enchanting illustrations inspire the readers to believe that the pan man’s music wields the power to make anyone dance, even the mayor.

Uses – Great for storytime. The full-size, colorful illustrations will captivate a young audience. It reads a lot like a fable where can children discuss the importance of honoring one’s promises. ( )