The Beat I Drum
The Beat I Drum by Dusti Bowling, published by Union Square Kids in 2025, is a 272-page work that explores the challenges faced by a young boy with Tourette Syndrome. In this narrative, Connor Bradley, who is the best friend of Aven Green from Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus, navigates the complexities of starting high school while dealing with his condition. The story highlights Connor’s experiences with misunderstandings from peers, the support he finds in new friendships, and the encouragement he receives from a music teacher to take up drumming as a means to cope with his tics.
Readers will find a heartfelt exploration of social themes such as disabilities and bullying, as well as insights into neurodiversity. As Connor confronts the difficulties of family dynamics and school life, he learns about resilience and the importance of acceptance. The narrative delves into the therapeutic aspects of music and the journey toward self-acceptance, offering an authentic perspective on the challenges and triumphs associated with living with Tourette’s.
Official synopsis Publisher
“This story was everything I wanted it to be. Heartfelt, thoughtful, and most of all . . . full of hope. I loved it!”
–Lindsay Currie, New York Times bestselling author of The Mystery of Locked Rooms
Connor, beloved best friend of Aven Green from Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus, tells his own story in this poignant and heartwarming tale about overcoming the challenges of life with Tourette’s.
Connor Bradley is dreading the first day of high school. Not just because he is new, or because he misses his best friends, but because he knows the other kids won’t understand his barking and tics. Connor has Tourette Syndrome, and every day has been a challenge–from the mimicking to the laughing, the questions, and the stares. It turns out school isn’t quite as bad as he expected. Connor forms a fast friendship with a girl who also has Tourette’s and is welcomed into her accepting circle of friends. He also meets a special music teacher who encourages him to take up the drums to manage his stress, and maybe get a break from his tics.
But Connor’s world is turned upside down when his absent father reappears and a bully starts to escalate at school. All these problems–with family, with friends, and even with himself–build and build until Connor feels ready to explode. Will a surprising revelation save him and help him find his beat again?
Endearing and authentic, The Beat I Drum offers an empathetic look at a misunderstood syndrome, the therapeutic value of music, and the power of forgiveness.
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