His parents divorced because his dad couldn’t come to terms with his condition.
Connor has Tourette syndrome.
Dad turns up after two years, changed, and hoping to be a part of his son’s life again.
His persistence is scoffed at by Connor.
There is too much anger festering inside him toward his father, as he is unable to forgive his dad for accusing him of being able to control his tics and barks, and won't.
On the first day of school, Connor meets Amanda.
She also has Tourette’s.
In addition to this, she has a dark-stain birthmark on one side of her face.
A close friendship forms between them.
Connor discovers that no matter where he goes, bullies are waiting for opportunities to attract attention to themselves.
Amanda has experienced the cruelty that exists in some people and tries to minimize his pain with her friendship and support.
Fortune smiles on Connor in the form of his music teacher, Ms Chen. A patient, compassionate person, she strongly believes that music will benefit his state of mind, and helps him discover which instrument is the most interesting to him.
The drums become part of his life after trying several other instruments. In the pounding of the sticks, he finds release of his anger and soon music becomes an expression of who he is and what he can achieve.
Dad has, unknown to Conner, sought help for his resentment toward his son. Slowly, in small increments, he re-enters his son’s life.
There are several stories entwined in this most perfect novel. Conner’s story that gives an insight into Tourette’s, juxtaposed with that of his father’s struggle to accept his son as he is.
The other absorbing stories are ingeniously structured to identify with the novel’s themes.
This is an unforgettable read from a gifted writer with a list of great achievements. It examines the inner world of people’s thoughts, actions and feelings, how a person can be judged by what the eyes see alone, the therapeutic benefits and power of music, and love.
Title: The Beat I Drum
Author: Dusti Bowling
Publisher: New South Books, $34.99
Publication Date: 9 July 2025
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781454957058
For ages: 10+
Type: Middle Grade Non Fiction
