Books in Superstars of Hip-Hop series

Grammy and Pulitzer Prize winner Kendrick Lamar is a standout in the hip-hop world. Even as a teenage rapper, he used the joys and tragedies he experienced living in Compton, California, to craft thoughtful lyrics amid evocative rhythms. Young music lovers will appreciate learning about Lamar's rise in the hip-hop game, including his work with Dr. Dre, through accessible text, Lamar's own words, informative sidebars, and an instructive timeline. They'll especially love the colorful photographs of the artist in action.

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.

Chancelor Johnathan Bennett, better known as Chance the Rapper, grew up in West Chatham, a middle-class neighborhood in Chicago's South Side. His parents raised him to believe in himself and encouraged him to work hard. Now he is a popular and successful musician who challenged the music industry by foregoing the traditional record deal and releasing his own mixtapes through the internet for free. Simple text and vivid photographs will pull readers into Chance's rise to fame in the music world and budding acting career. Through sidebars and direct quotations, students will get to know the more personal side of the humble and devoted family man and education activist.