Spring 2026

Kendrick Lamar

Revolutionary in Rhymes

From the Series Icons

  • Interest Level: Grade 8 - Grade 12
  • Reading Level: Grade 8

When Kendrick Lamar won the 2018 Pulitzer Prize in Music, the world took notice. This was no ordinary rapper.

Lamar’s songwriting transcends the boundaries of music, exploring themes of race, identity, social justice, and more. He has something to say, and people stop to listen—and to reward his work with one of the most prestigious awards in the United States.

From the release of his first mixtape in 2004 to his outspoken advocacy on social justice issues, including racial inequality, police violence, and the struggles of Black communities in America, Kendrick Lamar is anything but ordinary. His music reads like poetry, tackles pressing issues, and combines a variety of styles and genres to create his unique sound. He is not afraid to speak his mind, both in his lyrics and in the public forum. And he is dedicated to evolving as an artist as the world around him changes, making him a dynamic icon who has and will continue to make a lasting impact on hip-hop and the whole music industry.

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979-8-7656-8863-2
On pre-order until 01/01/2026
$27.99
9798348029616
On pre-order until 01/01/2026
$14.99
9798348000226
On pre-order until 01/01/2026
$41.99
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Interest Level Grade 8 - Grade 12
Reading Level Grade 8
Genre Social Studies, Young Adult
Category 5 Kinds of Nonfiction, 5KN: Narrative Nonfiction, Biography
Copyright 2026
Publisher Lerner Publishing Group
Imprint Twenty-First Century Books ™
Language English
Number of Pages 80
Publication Date 2026-01-01
Text Type Narrative Nonfiction
BISACS YAN006050, YAN037040
Dewey 782.421649092
Dimensions 6 x 9

Author: Carla Mooney

Carla Mooney is the author of several books for young readers. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, she lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with her husband and three children.

Reviews

School Library Journal

“An attractive layout and visually appealing design will draw in young readers who are interested in learning more about Lamar and his work.”—School Library Journal

Kirkus Reviews

“An accessible introduction to a hip-hop virtuoso that trusts teens’ ability to tackle complex social issues.”—Kirkus Reviews