The wait is over. New
this year to the Superstars of Hip-Hop series from Mason Crest, Drake
the biracial Canadian rapper on the rise since 2009 now has a spot on school library shelves. While this
title would benefit from higher quality images and a reconsideration of
the “hip-hop lingo” text boxes that define words as basic as “rap” (telegraphing to teens that this book does not recognize their prior
knowledge), the current dearth of available library materials on this
popular topic makes this volume worth considering. Earl focuses on
Drake’s ascent to stardom after establishing the music star's success as actor
Aubrey Graham. Earl pays particular attention to Drake’s use of the
internet and mixtapes to create a fan base without the backing of a
major label, and offers a sequential explanation of the artist's eventual
connection with Lil’ Wayne which may have been previously obscure. For
urban teens not yet ready to tackle more challenging text, Drake offers
an opportunity to access a simple expository text on a subject that
will be of high interest to some. The back matter includes a sparse
timeline, web links, an index and picture credits.--Jessica Fenster-Sparber
Earl, C. F. Drake. Pennsylvania: Mason Crest, 2013. Print.
* note this review copy was provided by a publisher at the request of the reviewer.
Friday, September 21, 2012
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