7 Best-Selling Ukulele Books Millions Love

Discover best-selling Ukulele Books authored by leading experts like Lil' Rev and Rebecca Bogart—trusted for their practical guidance and lasting impact.

Updated on June 26, 2025
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There's something special about books that both critics and crowds love, especially in the world of ukulele. Millions have embraced the ukulele for its cheerful sound and approachable size, making it one of the fastest-growing instruments among musicians of all ages. Whether strumming at home or performing on stage, these books capture the heart of ukulele learning with proven methods that stand the test of time.

These best-selling ukulele books come from authors with deep roots in music education and performance. Lil' Rev's approachable method books walk beginners through fundamentals with clarity, while Rebecca Bogart's award-nominated teaching style combines video and song-based learning to keep progress steady and enjoyable. Each author brings practical experience that resonates with learners seeking reliable, expert-crafted guidance.

While these popular books provide proven frameworks, readers seeking content tailored to their specific ukulele needs might consider creating a personalized Ukulele book that combines these validated approaches. This option allows you to focus on your skill level and musical goals, building on what these trusted resources offer.

Best for ukulele beginners building solid foundations
What makes the Hal Leonard Ukulele Method Book 1 a staple among beginners is its blend of simplicity and variety, crafted by Lil' Rev, a notable figure in the ukulele community. This book has gained widespread appeal because it doesn’t just teach you chords; it introduces you to a range of musical styles through engaging songs that keep you motivated. Its stepwise structure allows you to progress steadily without feeling overwhelmed, making it a solid choice if you’re just starting out with the ukulele and want a reliable resource to guide your practice.
2005·48 pages·Ukulele, Music, Instruments, Ukulele Playing, Chord Shapes

The breakthrough moment came when Lil' Rev, a seasoned performer and ukulele expert, channeled his practical teaching experience into this approachable beginner's guide. The book offers you clear fundamentals of ukulele playing, including chord shapes, strumming patterns, and a variety of songs spanning multiple styles to keep practice engaging. You'll find straightforward explanations paired with accessible exercises so you can build confidence from the first chord. This method benefits absolute beginners who want a structured yet enjoyable path to mastering the instrument without overwhelming technical jargon or assumptions about prior musical knowledge.

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Best for quick learners mastering popular folk songs
What makes 21 Songs in 6 Days unique in the ukulele world is its blend of clear, accessible instruction with a carefully curated setlist of 21 familiar folk songs, allowing you to play recognizable music from day one. This book’s proven appeal lies in its step-by-step progression paired with free online videos, addressing various learning preferences and helping you avoid frustration. It’s designed for beginners who want to build skills steadily and confidently, providing all the chord diagrams, strum patterns, and lyrics needed to make your playing sound polished. Whether you’re starting fresh or seeking a straightforward primer, this resource meets your needs with a practical, engaging approach.
21 Songs in 6 Days: Learn Ukulele the Easy Way: Book + online video (Beginning Ukulele Songs) book cover

by Rebecca Bogart, Jenny Peters, Loretta Crum, Joe Barstad·You?

2014·120 pages·Ukulele, Music Instruction, Chord Playing, Strum Patterns, Song Learning

Drawing from her experience as a Grammy Award-nominated educator and a former Harvard Master Class piano teacher, Rebecca Bogart offers a distinctive approach to learning ukulele with 21 Songs in 6 Days. This book guides you through mastering 21 well-known folk songs, providing chord diagrams, strum patterns, sheet music, and lyrics, complemented by free online video instruction to suit different learning styles. You'll build confidence mastering one element at a time, avoiding common pitfalls while progressing steadily. Whether you're an absolute beginner or someone seeking a straightforward learning method, this book equips you to start playing recognizable tunes quickly and enjoyably.

Amazon #1 Bestseller in Music Category
Authored by Grammy Award-Nominated Educator
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Best for personal skill building
This AI-created book on ukulele mastery is designed just for you, built from your background, skill level, and musical goals. By sharing what you want to focus on and your current experience, the book provides a tailored exploration of step-by-step methods that build strong foundational skills. This personalized approach means you get a learning path that fits your interests perfectly, helping you grow your confidence and technique without wading through unnecessary material.
2025·50-300 pages·Ukulele, Ukulele Basics, Chord Formation, Strumming Patterns, Fingerpicking

This tailored book explores step-by-step ukulele methods designed to build strong foundational skills that align with your unique background and goals. It covers essential techniques such as chord formation, strumming patterns, fingerpicking, and rhythm development, all matched to your current experience level. By focusing on your interests, it reveals how to progress confidently from beginner basics to more advanced playing styles. The personalized approach ensures you spend time mastering what matters most to you, supported by insights drawn from popular, reader-validated knowledge. This book fosters a rewarding learning journey that blends proven techniques with your individual musical aspirations.

Tailored Guide
Technique Refinement
3,000+ Books Created
Best for expanding song repertoire with favorites
Discover a book that bridges the gap between ukulele basics and playing real music with the "First 50 Songs You Should Play on Ukulele." This collection from Hal Leonard compiles 50 approachable, well-loved songs complete with melodies, lyrics, and chord diagrams designed specifically for beginners who have grasped foundational skills. It invites you to engage directly with music that motivates and inspires, rather than abstract exercises, helping you build confidence and enjoyment early in your musical journey. Whether you're practicing alone or preparing to share your sound, this songbook offers a straightforward path to making music that feels rewarding and fun.
2015·136 pages·Music, Ukulele, Songbooks, Chord Diagrams, Melody Playing

What started as a simple desire to transition from ukulele basics to actual song-playing led to this carefully curated collection of 50 accessible favorites. Compiled by various artists and published by Hal Leonard, the book offers melody lines, lyrics, and chord diagrams that enable you to confidently perform songs ranging from "I'm Yours" to "Over the Rainbow". Unlike other beginner books that focus solely on technique, this one immerses you in recognizable tunes that keep practice engaging and rewarding. If you're ready to move beyond exercises and start playing music that resonates, this book will guide your journey without overwhelming you.

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Best for mastering chords across all keys
Alfred's Ukulele Chord Chart stands out by focusing purely on chords, a foundational element in ukulele playing that many learners struggle to master. This compact chart, published by Alfred Music, clearly displays all basic chords in every key along with fingerings and note names, removing guesswork for players. Its included accompaniment guide breaks down principal chords, relative minors, and alternate options, making it a practical tool for those looking to improve their playing and accompaniment skills. Whether you're just starting out or want a handy reference, this chart offers a focused and accessible approach to ukulele chords.
2013·4 pages·Ukulele, Music Theory, Chord Charts, Finger Positioning, Chord Variations

Unlike most ukulele books that focus on songs or theory, Alfred's Ukulele Chord Chart provides a straightforward visual guide to mastering the basic chords across every key. Crafted by Ron Manus, L. C. Harnsberger, and Nathaniel Gunod, who bring decades of music education experience, this chart offers clear chord frames with fret positions, fingerings, and note names for major, minor, seventh, diminished, augmented, and extended chords. You’ll also find a handy accompaniment guide explaining principal chords, relative minors, and alternate chords per key, making it easier to build your chord vocabulary quickly. This chart suits beginners and intermediate players aiming to deepen their chord knowledge without wading through excess theory or songbooks.

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Best for beginners needing video-supported lessons
Bert Casey has been a professional performer and teacher in the Atlanta area for over 35 years, a background that lends considerable depth to his teaching approach. Having authored eight instructional books and co-founded Watch & Learn, Inc., Casey brings a wealth of experience to this ukulele primer. His book is designed to help beginners grasp essential skills like tuning, hand positioning, and strumming, supported by an 86-minute online video that shows techniques from multiple angles. This combination makes the book an accessible starting point for anyone ready to explore the ukulele.
2019·55 pages·Ukulele, Music, Instruments, Ukulele Playing, Chord Charts

Bert Casey, with over 35 years as a professional performer and teacher, crafted this primer to guide you through the fundamentals of ukulele playing. Starting from identifying parts of the instrument and tuning techniques, the book quickly moves into practical skills like left and right hand positioning and varied strum patterns. You'll find clear instruction through chord charts and helpful photos, while the included online video offers 86 minutes of split-screen demonstrations, enabling you to watch finger placement and strumming simultaneously. This resource is tailored for absolute beginners eager to play fifteen well-known songs and enjoy entertaining at home. If you're looking for a straightforward introduction without unnecessary complexity, this book suits your needs perfectly.

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Best for custom rhythm practice
This AI-created book on ukulele strumming is tailored to your specific skill level, interests, and goals. By focusing on targeted exercises that rapidly improve rhythm and timing, it offers a practice journey designed just for you. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, this book combines popular proven techniques with your unique background to help you progress efficiently and enjoyably. It’s a practical way to dive deep into the details that matter most for your strumming mastery.
2025·50-300 pages·Ukulele, Strumming Basics, Rhythm Timing, Pattern Variation, Chord Transitions

This tailored book explores targeted exercises designed to enhance your ukulele strumming patterns and timing over 30 focused days. It combines widely appreciated techniques with your personal interests, ensuring the content matches your background and specific rhythm goals. Through carefully selected drills and practice routines, it reveals how to build precise timing and rhythmic fluidity, addressing the unique challenges you face in mastering strumming. The book’s personalized approach helps you deepen your understanding of rhythm nuances while steadily improving your strumming consistency and musical expression. This tailored guide creates a practice path that keeps you engaged and progressing toward your rhythm mastery objectives.

Tailored Guide
Rhythm Enhancement
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for advancing skills beyond basics
The Hal Leonard Ukulele Method Book 2 by Lil' Rev offers a well-structured path for those ready to move beyond beginner basics. This book is widely valued for its approachable method that introduces a range of musical styles through carefully selected songs and exercises. It meets the need of players seeking to diversify their ukulele skills with practical guidance on chords and rhythms. By focusing on enjoyable, varied practice, this guide supports your journey to becoming a more adaptable and confident ukulele player.
2008·48 pages·Ukulele, Music Creation, Instrumental Skills, Ukulele Playing, Chord Progression

Lil' Rev's Hal Leonard Ukulele Method Book 2 takes a straightforward approach to expanding your ukulele skills beyond the basics. Designed as a follow-up for beginners, it walks you through a variety of styles with approachable songs, helping you build versatility and confidence. You'll find practical exercises that focus on chord transitions and rhythm patterns, making it easier to play along with different genres. This book suits anyone who’s comfortable with the fundamentals and wants to deepen their playing without getting overwhelmed. It’s especially helpful if you’re looking to add musical variety and improve your technique in a friendly, manageable way.

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Best for self-directed learners using video tutorials
What makes "Ukulele Utube Notebook: Learn Songs, Watch Youtube, Take Notes" stand out is its unique integration of YouTube tutorials with a guided practice notebook, designed specifically for ukulele beginners. Mark Latimer offers a hands-on method combining visual learning with active note-taking across 145 pages, including 56 song worksheets and detailed illustrations. This approach caters to those eager to learn at their own pace without prior musical background, helping you organize your progress and build a personalized songbook. It solves the common problem of scattered ukulele lessons by bringing resources and practice into one accessible format, making it a valuable tool for anyone starting their musical journey with the ukulele.
2018·146 pages·Ukulele, Music Creation, Learning Techniques, Song Practice, Video Tutorials

Mark Latimer challenges the conventional wisdom that learning the ukulele requires formal lessons by designing a practical, interactive workbook that leverages YouTube tutorials and note-taking. This book guides you through 145 pages filled with 56 song worksheets, clear illustrations, and effective practice techniques, all tailored for beginners without prior musical experience. You gain hands-on skills by watching curated video lessons and organizing your learning journey in one place, making practice more engaging and personalized. If you're starting from scratch and want a self-directed yet structured approach to mastering your favorite ukulele songs, this workbook offers a straightforward path without overwhelming theory.

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Proven Ukulele Methods, Personalized

Get expert-backed ukulele strategies tailored to your unique learning style and goals.

Targeted skill focus
Faster song mastery
Personalized practice plans

Validated by thousands of ukulele enthusiasts worldwide

Ukulele Mastery Blueprint
30-Day Strumming Secrets
Foundations Ukulele System
Ukulele Success Code

Conclusion

Together, these seven ukulele books highlight a trio of themes: structured skill-building, song-centered learning, and practical chord mastery. If you prefer proven methods, start with Lil' Rev's "Hal Leonard Ukulele Method Book 1" for solid foundations. For validated approaches blending songs and video instruction, Rebecca Bogart's "21 Songs in 6 Days" is a go-to. Those looking to expand their repertoire will find "First 50 Songs You Should Play on Ukulele" especially rewarding.

Combining chord knowledge with hands-on practice is crucial, which Alfred's chord chart and the interactive "Ukulele Utube Notebook" support handsomely. For advancing beyond basics, "Hal Leonard Ukulele Method Book 2" guides your next steps with accessible style diversity. Beginners wanting visual learning will appreciate Bert Casey's primer with its integrated video.

Alternatively, you can create a personalized Ukulele book to combine proven methods with your unique needs. These widely-adopted approaches have helped many readers succeed, offering reliable paths to making beautiful music on the ukulele.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with "Hal Leonard Ukulele Method Book 1." It offers clear fundamentals and a structured path, perfect for easing into ukulele basics without feeling overwhelmed.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Ukulele?

No, several books, like Bert Casey's "Ukulele Primer Book for Beginners" and Lil' Rev's Method Book 1, are designed specifically for absolute beginners with easy-to-follow lessons.

What's the best order to read these books?

Begin with foundational books like "Hal Leonard Ukulele Method Book 1," then move to song collections such as "21 Songs in 6 Days," and finally explore chord charts and advanced techniques.

Do I really need to read all of these, or can I just pick one?

You can pick based on your goals—song learners might prefer "First 50 Songs You Should Play," while those focused on chords will benefit from Alfred's Chord Chart. Each book serves different needs.

Which book gives the most actionable advice I can use right away?

"21 Songs in 6 Days" combines clear instructions with online videos, making it easy to start playing recognizable tunes quickly and confidently.

Can I get a Ukulele book tailored to my specific skill level and goals?

Yes! While these expert books offer solid guidance, you can also create a personalized Ukulele book tailored exactly to your background and musical interests for focused learning.

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