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Bring on that beat book cover

Bring on that beat

by Rachel Isadora

Putnam 2002

★★★★★

Great fit for 2nd grade

Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9

2nd grade English
0.5
AR Points
3m
Read time
AR Quiz Available

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Genre

Poetry

Themes

  • music and rhythm
  • community
  • African American culture
  • Harlem Renaissance
  • celebration
  • art and creativity
  • city life

About this book

With rhythmic, chant-like text and bold, jazzy artwork, Bring on That Beat whisks readers to Harlem during the jazz age as musicians jam and neighbors sway on the sidewalks. Rachel Isadora celebrates the sound and spirit of a community where music brings everyone together. It’s a lively read-aloud that invites kids to clap, tap, and move with the beat while discovering a slice of American cultural history. Perfect for younger readers and for introducing jazz, rhythm, and the Harlem Renaissance in classrooms or at home.

Setting: Harlem, New York City during the Jazz Age (1920s–1930s)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bring on that beat right for my child?

Yes — Bring on that beat is a great fit for 2nd grade. The reading level is AR 2.5, which is typical for 2nd grade. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 5–9 (K–3rd grade). Themes include music and rhythm, community, African American culture.

How long does it take to read Bring on that beat?

At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, Bring on that beat takes around 3m to finish. The book has 350 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.

Does Bring on that beat have an AR quiz?

Yes — Bring on that beat has an AR quiz available, worth 0.5 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.

What grade level is Bring on that beat?

Bring on that beat has an AR reading level of 2.5, which places it at a 2nd grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.