This lovely picture book biography hooks readers in the opening with its puzzle metaphor. The lively, energetic illustrations pulse across the pages, visually entertaining as Stephen's life unfolds. Readers will relate to being curious and wanting to know how things work. They may also think about how some of their interests and talents will lead them in to a career. Stephen's background, talents, changes, and experiences prepared him to be a Broadway composer. Pieces of the Puzzle will appeal to fans of musical theater, music and creativity of every kind. Highly recommended.

I LOVED THIS BOOK! It was informative and taught my son and I about a name we've always heard but didn't know much about. It is a great story and teaches great lessons - finding your joy, practicing, persevering, and enjoying what you do. Glad to have read this with my son to show him what hard work and persistence gets you.

Fans of musicals, and Stephen Sondheim will enjoy this interesting biography that describes the composer and lyricist's rise to success and fame. I think this would make a good text for a research project, especially for anyone interested in musicals. This would be a good text to use in music education classrooms for middle grade and elementary students.

I recommend this book for schools and libraries.