(4) YA USA Today Lifeline Biographies series. Using USA Today articles, websites, interviews, and other sources, these biographies provide overviews of the slain rap star and the superstar author. The busy book design features many photographs, some of which enhance the texts (e.g., Tupac performing in various hip-hop shows) while others are clearly filler (e.g., in Meyer, a photo of kids lined up to purchase Harry Potter). Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind. Review covers these USA Today Lifeline Biographies titles: Tupac Shakur and Stephenie Meyer.

Reviewer: Elissa Gershowitz

(4) YA Lives Cut Short series. Each biography opens with a pivotal moment in the performer's career. The texts then move chronologically from the person's childhood to his untimely death, touching on upbringing, setbacks, and accomplishments along the way. The writing occasionally veers into melodrama. The volumes are enhanced by their many photos and clean design. Reading list, timeline. Bib., glos., ind. Review covers these Lives Cut Short titles: John Lennon, Tupac Shakur, Michael Jackson, and Heath Ledger.

Reviewer: Marika Jeffrey

(2) 4-6 The mothers of the narrator and her best friend don't allow them to leave their block. The girls are drawn to D, whose foster mother lets her "roam." It's 1994, and the main characters are captivated by rapper Tupac Shakur's legal troubles and near-murder. Woodson eloquently lays out what Tupac means to the trio and their community in this ruminative, bittersweet novel.

Reviewer: Christine M. Heppermann | Horn Book Magazine Issue: January, 2008

(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 some history about 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, and discographies add to the teen-friendly appeal. Reading list, timeline, websites. Bib., glos., ind. Review covers these Hip-Hop Stars titles: Jay-Z, Sean Combs, Queen Latifah, and Tupac Shakur.

Reviewer: Marika Jeffrey

(4) YA People in the News series. Each title touches on the performer's childhood, adult life, achievements, and surrounding controversies. Though the writing tends to be overly laudatory, difficult issues are addressed, including drug use and violence. Sidebars cover more general topics, such as politics or social movements, giving the stories context. Many photographs are included. Reading list, timeline, websites. Ind. Review covers these People in the News titles: Shakira, Queen Latifah, and Tupac Shakur.

Reviewer: Cyrisse Jaffee