A Hip-Hop Legend

The Coretta Scott King Awards were announced last week and I like many school librarians enjoy seeing which books are awarded.  This year's list is special to me because one book in particular really took me back to a time in my teenage years.   

“When the Beat Was Born: DJ Kool Herc and the Creation of Hip-Hop” written by Laban Carrick Hill, illustrated by Theodore Taylor III is a picture book for young readers that introduces them to rap pioneer DJ Kool Herc.   Born Clive Campbell in Kingston, Jamaica is credited for launching hip-hop during the early 70's.  The book describes his roots in Jamaica, how he began hosting music infused parties in his Bronx neighborhood and his influence on modern hip-hop today.

Taylor is the winner of the 2014 Coretta Scott King - John Steptoe Award for New Talent.  If you would like to check out some excerpts from this award winning book, visit his website at:  www.theodore3.com.

Long live hip-hop!