Books in Hip-Hop Stars series

As a child, Kanye West always worked hard to be the best at whatever he tried to do. The people around him saw how talented he was, and soon the world would know as well. Through accessible text and full-color photographs, accompanied by interesting sidebars and insightful quotations, readers will learn how Kanye West used his ambition to become a top music producer and celebrated rap artist who has also helped other artists achieve their big breaks in the music business.

Shawn Carter, better known by his hip-hop name Jay-Z, rose from the world of poverty and drugs in the Marcy Projects of Brooklyn to become one of the most successful rappers ever. His net worth is measured in the hundreds of millions of dollars, and his business ventures include clothing, clubs, and sports. With high-interest material delivered in simple language and structure, and enhanced by colorful photographs, direct quotations, and informative sidebars, readers will have access to the life story of this award-winning songwriter and businessman.

Born Marshall Mathers III, Eminem overcame a difficult childhood to become the most critically acclaimed white rapper of his time. His albums have sold in the millions, and he's won MTV Video Music Awards, Grammy Awards, and even an Oscar. But fame and success have come with a price: His lyrics have been attacked for encouraging violence against women and others. His turbulent personal life has made countless headlines. While some people have called for his music to be banned, others have labeled him a genius.Eminem is a compelling full-color biography that examines the remarkable life of a controversial yet undeniably talented artist who pushed creative envelopes and broke racial boundaries to become one of hip-hop's greatest stars. Hip-hop history and fun facts are featured in this engaging title, along with a current discography, a timely chronology, a glossary, sidebars, and more.