WINNER: National Council of Teachers of English 2026 Notable Poetry Book "This cheery picture book is a knockout, delightful on many levels. First, it celebrates the joy of creating, specifically writing and performing original rap pieces. It glorifies the wonders of language, defining writing elements and offering tips about online dictionaries and potent word choices.The work features vivid, graffiti-filled collages by Martinez that effectively capture the kinetic beats of rhythmic lyrics and the energy of live performances. Most importantly, the text, which is addressed directly to the reader, offers endless encouragement. Anyone can learn to rap, and everyone has something to say and the right to spit it out loud and proud. The ultimate message--put in the work, because "The words you write are worth it"--comes through and will hopefully inspire aspiring rap artists." -- Booklist, starred review "Martinez, making a picture book debut, follows the protagonist from toddlerhood to childhood in bold illustrations that get at hip-hop's vital energy.
It's a rhythmic text that offers craft advice alongside a fervent promise of creative fulfillment." -- Publishers Weekly " A thrilling ode to rap and the creative process."-- Kirkus "This ode to hip-hop and rap is a perfect partnership between music and literature"-- School Library Journal st from toddlerhood to childhood in bold illustrations that get at hip-hop's vital energy.It's a rhythmic text that offers craft advice alongside a fervent promise of creative fulfillment." -- Publishers Weekly " A thrilling ode to rap and the creative process."-- Kirkus "This ode to hip-hop and rap is a perfect partnership between music and literature"-- School Library Journal st from toddlerhood to childhood in bold illustrations that get at hip-hop's vital energy.It's a rhythmic text that offers craft advice alongside a fervent promise of creative fulfillment." -- Publishers Weekly " A thrilling ode to rap and the creative process.
"-- Kirkus "This ode to hip-hop and rap is a perfect partnership between music and literature"-- School Library Journal st from toddlerhood to childhood in bold illustrations that get at hip-hop's vital energy.It's a rhythmic text that offers craft advice alongside a fervent promise of creative fulfillment." -- Publishers Weekly " A thrilling ode to rap and the creative process."-- Kirkus "This ode to hip-hop and rap is a perfect partnership between music and literature"-- School Library Journal.