Let Me Hear a Rhyme by Tiffany Jackson

Let Me Hear a Rhyme by Tiffany D. Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Awesomely narrated by Korey Jackson , Nile Bullock , Adenrele Ojo , Adam Lazarre-White; I loved this book- the characters were so real, likable, funny, and dealing with their own issues. Steph, Jasmine's big brother and all around good guy has been murdered; Jasmine and his 2 best friends, Quadir and Jarrell feel keenly Steph's music needs to be heard and hatch a plot to get everyone listening to Steph as if he is alive but they call him The Architect. When each of them begins delving into Steph's life their are mysteries and secrets Steph was keeping and now the 3 friends are keeping secrets. Loved the music world aspect look into the making of a demo, learning the history of music, of rappers, being represented by a label and fame. The narrators were so good; I enjoyed the authenticity they brought to the teens' language, dress, social status and racism. Jackson's book was awesome; teens will love the 90s portrayal of the music scene, the loyalty of friends, and the grief after a loved one dies.

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On the Come Up by Angie Thomas

On the Come Up by Angie Thomas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this 2nd book by Angie Thomas and Bri was such a strong female lead, she did not shy away from expressing herself (setting haters and troublemakers straight), even if it got her into problems with how others perceived her---she knew who she was and she spent her life rapping andurban it was the only thing she wanted to do- also as a way to get her out of her neighborhood. She loses alot (her Dad's shooting, her mom's drug use, loneliness while her Mom is in rehab, others misjudging Bri and her family members. When even more tough times fall (Bri assaulted by school guards, mom loses job, electricity is cut off, Trey's money is not enough) Bri wants to save the family by making it big with her rap, On the Come Up, but there are other unintended consequences; Bri, her friends and family (Aunt Pooh and cousin Scrap) are judged harshly but Bri is formidable and I loved her fierceness. You will too! Don't miss this must read!!!

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