8 Books That Celebrate Hip-Hop
When “Arthur” debuted on PBS KIDS in 1996, the theme song “Believe in Yourself” was a catchy tune I just could not stop humming. Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers contributed a timeless intro song that has touched millions of children (and their grownups) around the globe: “It’s a simple message and it comes from the heart/ Believe in yourself (yourself)/ Well, that’s the place to start (to start).”
In 2014, while pregnant with my first child, I saw a heartwarming video of Chance the Rapper in a packed New York venue performing a cover of “Believe in Yourself.” I already knew I would introduce this show to my children, but at that point, I fell in love with the show’s theme song all over again. A few years later, in 2017, Chance the Rapper, Ziggy Marley, and instrumentalist Jon Batiste teamed up to perform the song on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.” The “Believe in Yourself” remix was now a beautiful reggae and heavy hip-hop mashup.
I enjoyed the remix so much because hip-hop raised me. Hip-hop isn’t just music; it’s a way of life. From fashion to art to language and beyond, hip-hop has shaped entire generations — evolving as a form of storytelling that has been shared, loved, and often imitated worldwide.
In August of this year, hip-hop turned 50. We celebrate its rich history and culture daily in my home, and on its anniversary, we celebrated by visiting a local exhibit at The National Museum of African American Music in Nashville. Interested in discussing and teaching kids about hip-hop’s history without leaving your home? Grab a book! Here are eight kid-approved hip-hop books that celebrate the genre:
The Legends of Hip-Hop Board Book Series(opens in new window)
This new board book series from music producer Pen Ken and animator Saxton Moore introduces young readers to legends like Tupac Shakur and Queen Latifah through 1-2-3 and A-B-C rhymes and lively illustrations.
The Roots of Rap: 16 Bars on the 4 Pillars of Hip-Hop(opens in new window)
With an introduction from rapper and DJ Swizz Beats, dive into the roots of rap and hip-hop. This book is poetic, and the art is amazing, too!
A Child's Introduction to Hip-Hop(opens in new window)
A guide to all things hip-hop, this book delves into its rich history and impact as both a music and cultural phenomenon. The historical context for young readers is presented in an easy-to-follow format while celebrating some of hip-hop’s most decorated past and present artists. Readers learn about the genre’s revolutionary roots while being inspired to continue using hip-hop to tell stories.
Daddy and Me and the Rhyme to Be(opens in new window)
Based on a true story — rapper, actor, and entrepreneur Chris “Ludacris” Bridges and his daughter wrote this picture book. Just like her dad, Karma is a lyricist. They love making songs together, but when Karma tries to create a rhyme for her dad’s birthday, she doesn’t quite know where to start. This book is a wonderful way to get families rhyming together.
All Good in the Hood(opens in new window)
Author Dwayne Reed is known as America’s favorite rapping teacher — and in this book, he delivers a rhythmic celebration of a Chicago neighborhood during a Juneteenth celebration. Poetic devices like onomatopoeia (think oink, roar, and meow) and hip-hop phrases support themes of sibling love.
Darryl's Dream(opens in new window)
Founding member of the legendary hip-hop group Run-DMC, McDaniels shares a relatable story of Darryl, a third-grader who enjoys writing but gets bullied for his big glasses. Through hip-hop, Darryl gains confidence and steps into his power at the school talent show.
Hip Hop Speaks to Children: A Celebration of Poetry with a Beat(opens in new window)
This book shows kids how poetry and hip-hop are alike. With more than 50 poems and songs, readers can begin to understand how these two storytelling methods are intertwined. Artists like Queen Latifah, Jay-Z, and A Tribe Called Quest’s songs are featured with notable poets like Langston Hughes and Gwendolyn Brooks. The joyful illustrations and included CD bring both tunes and words to life.
When the Beat Was Born: DJ Kool Herc and the Creation of Hip Hop(opens in new window)
DJ Clive Campbell (aka DJ Cool Herc) is a hip-hop pioneer — and this book artfully tells the story of how he created unique ways of transitioning and playing music between songs in 1970s Bronx.
Author: