fionak's review
3.0
This book is specifically targeted at Kendrick Lamar fans and I, as a general aficionado of hip-hop history and culture, didn't get much out of it. The author inserts himself and his experiences into the book far too often for my taste and spends the rest of the time dissecting lyrics and interpreting supposed influences. Usually, I'm all for books that are secretly love letters but this feels more like a test of pre-existing knowledge on said rapper than a reason to fall in love. Artwork is kinda cool though.
I was sent a free copy of this book for review by the publisher.
I was sent a free copy of this book for review by the publisher.
cascadienne's review
3.0
As another reviewer said, this book veers between Lewis’s musical memoir and actual critical study of Lamar’s work. While it provided some good context for how Lamar’s music follows a parallel path of development, it was also distracting at times.
I picked it up to fulfill the hip-hop square on my summer book bingo list - and to learn more about what led to Lamar’s being awarded a Pulitzer Prize. While I had to do a lot of side reading (and listening) to follow some of the discussions in the book, I appreciate the opportunity to discover quite a few new artists and take a closer look at American hip-hop from this angle.
I picked it up to fulfill the hip-hop square on my summer book bingo list - and to learn more about what led to Lamar’s being awarded a Pulitzer Prize. While I had to do a lot of side reading (and listening) to follow some of the discussions in the book, I appreciate the opportunity to discover quite a few new artists and take a closer look at American hip-hop from this angle.
bi_n_large's review against another edition
challenging
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
4.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Gun violence, and Murder
Moderate: Misogyny, Racism, Racial slurs, and Drug use
Minor: Sexual content, Suicide, Police brutality, Alcohol, and Sexual assault
shannanh's review
4.0
Although I'm not a rap fan, nor could I tell you any song by this artist, I really enjoyed this book and what I read. To me the most interesting part of this book was about his life and up bringing. You will probably enjoy it more if you're a fan of him and his music.
I received a copy of the book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review
I received a copy of the book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review
randomreader41's review
4.0
I went into this knowing nothing about what would be discussed. I am pleased that I did. I learned a lot about a person who I consider one of the greatest rappers of my time. Thanks for the ARC NetGalley.