(4) YA Contemporary Lives series. These standard-issue, easy-to-read pop biographies offer details about each star's life and career. Controversial behaviors and incidents, including early failures or bad reviews; drug use by Downey and Eminem; protests against Eminem's perceived homophobia, misogyny, and gun use; Lady Gaga's bisexuality; and Bieber's jealous fans' behavior are covered. Sidebars offer additional context to the unremarkable text. Reading list, timeline. Bib., glos., ind. Review covers these Contemporary Lives titles: Eminem, Justin Bieber, Lady Gaga, and Robert Downey, Jr.

Reviewer: Cyrisse Jaffee

(4) YA Hip-Hop Stars series. These biographies deliver comprehensive information about the lives and careers of their subjects--including achievements and struggles--as well as a history of hip-hop. The same introduction by Chuck D of rap group Public Enemy begins each. The stories are engaging, though the writing tends to ramble. Photos, sidebars, discographies, and some websites add to the teen-friendly appeal. Reading list, timeline. Bib., glos., ind. Review covers these Hip-Hop Stars titles: Beastie Boys, Eminem, Missy Elliott, Russell Simmons, LL Cool J, and Run-DMC.

Reviewer: Marika Hoe