The Roots of Rap: 16 Bars on the 4 Pillars of Hip-Hop

The Roots of Rap, 16 Bars on the 4 Pillars of Hip-Hop is an incredible work of art with a value that far exceeds its humble price tag. Each page is a brilliant expression of the creativity and passion that is rap music and hip-hop culture. Paying tribute to poetry, street rhymes and phat beats; storytelling in its many artistic forms. From breakdancing and boom boxes, to deejays and block parties; brothers with funky-fresh rhymes and queens rocking the mic. This is an ode to hip-hop that is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced in the picture book format.The Roots of Rap opens with a note from rapper, DJ, and record producer, Swizz Beatz, encouraging readers to learn more about rap and its roots, starting with the pages of this book. Carole Boston Weatherford delivers. Her words grace this space with ease and finesse. Dropping bars so poetic that she could get down with the dopest MCs. Then there’s Frank Morrison who made this picture book feel like an art gallery had come to life in my hands! Each piece capturing the pulse of the heart of hip-hop, taking me on a trip down memory lane. Time traveling through history on turntables spinning records connecting old school with the new over bits of sampled beats, to the present day where I’m the adult now saying to my kids, “That ain’t new!”I thoroughly enjoyed this book all the way through to its end where there are author and illustrator notes, a glossary of terms used throughout, and a Hip-Hop Who’s Who. I found it noted on Amazon that this book is for ages 4-8 but I would think that the interest level will go beyond that range. It would be well suited for any elementary, middle, and high school library.

I would buy this book for the illustrations alone but the content is great too. Along with the story, which is written in catchy rhythmic phrases, there is extra information in the book about the history of hip hop, a little glossary at the end, and a few notes from various people in the industry. The book goes through the history of hip hop with familiar names and references to hip hop and black culture. It's a great book to add a little diversity to your library and introduce children to a culture that may be different from their own. If you're a fan of hip hop, you'll love it even more.

Trying to teach about the history of rap in an elementary classroom leaves one digging for resources. This book was a little young for my audience but it still led to great conversations and gave me a jumping off point to talk about each artist featured. I also let the kindergarten teacher borrow it, they all loved it. I'm happy to see that we are getting resources to help us teach children more about recent American history.

This book is amazing. I love the illustrations! My son and I love music and hip hop especially. I was able to make the connection between past and present artists! We enjoyed the read and it led him to want to further research hip hop.

I purchased this book for my 7 year old who saw it at his school's book fair but they were sold out. He is an avid reader and reads all kinds of books. He says that he really enjoyed the book.

Amazing the o e thing me and my son bond over is hip hop and its origins this book really taught us a lot and he loves it BRAVO great book

This is a great boon for kids to learn all about the legends. My 9 year old son loved it. It was also cheaper than it was at the school book fair.

My 2 1/2 year old loves this book! I put on James Brown while we read and it was perfect while we read through the musical text. Really cool!

Fun book if you like hip hop

Beautifully designed and met all expectations. My 6 year old son loves this book and illustrations equally.

Must have

Perfect