Sangeet and the Missing Beat

Sangeet loves music, and she’s good at composing it, too. Her favourite instrument is the tabla. One day, Sangeet hears all kinds of noises everywhere and together, they have the most incredible beat. But when she tries to play it on her tabla–something is missing! Will Sangeet be able to find her Missing Beat? Teacher resources available on publisher website: rebelmountainpress.com/sangeet-and-the-missing-beat-teacher-resources

AUTHOR

Kiranjot Kaur

Kiranjot Kaur is a multi-disciplinary artist, author, and engineer. Her work aims to celebrate her artistic influences including her Panjabi, Sikh, and Canadian heritages. Kiranjot’s goal in developing children’s books is to create stories and art representative of her life growing up in B.C.’s Lower Mainland, and she hopes to inspire kids to dream big and recognize their own amazing potential (just like Sangeet!). Among many artistic adventures, Kiranjot is currently pursuing a PhD in earthquake engineering. She lives with her two incredible daughters and loving husband in Surrey, B.C., Canada. Author available for school and other venue readings and presentations.

Reviews

The book’s joyful storyline is complemented by vibrant, cartoonlike illustrations that have a homespun feel. Cue applause for this picture book about a Sikh girl who loves music. Kirkus Reviews

Kiranjot Kaur’s illustrations for Sangeet and the Missing Beat are vivid, and her attention to details is impressive. Sangeet’s long, dark hair, which is always flowing around and behind her, expresses as much emotion as her face does. She and her family are also wearing kara’s on their wrists, a steel bangle, worn by many Sikh’s. These details are important. Even the little patterns on all of Sangeet’s clothes and the accuracy of the illustrated tabla all add layers of warmth to the story. Highly Recommended! Canadian Review of Materials

Sangeet and the Missing Beat is a wonderful picture book and a resource that can be used to initiate class discussions and lesson introductions about music, diversity and perseverance. Children will enjoy hearing about how Sangeet faces her dilemma and ultimately solves her problem with support from her loving family. By the end of the story, readers will likely be thumping and tapping away, trying to create their own beat. Punam Gil, teacher-librarian

This book was perfect for my lessons on international female percussionists. Sangeet shows the same commitment and creativity as many great musicians. I challenged my class to find that “Missing Beat” by listening to the sounds around them. This book is truly inspiring! JoAnne Danson, music teacher

Sangeet and the Missing Beat is a great addition to any classroom library. My students can see themselves in this book and it is very popular during reading time. Often, I see them drumming after they read the book. Bal Dhaliwal, teacher

CBC Kids Book Club video, Aug 3, 2023: https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?tab=rm&ogbl#inbox/FMfcgzGtwWDKxrdwVgNrJCcHmwnpLXGV?projector=1