Book Review-

 

Bibliography-

Shakur, T. (1999). The rose that grew from concrete. MTV Books.

ISBN 0671028448

 

Plot Summary-

This collection of deeply personal poetry is a mirror into the legendary artist's enigmatic world and its many contradictions. Written in his own hand from the time he was nineteen years old, these seventy-two poems embrace his spirit, his energy and his ultimate message of hope.

 

Critical Analysis-

Selections in this book are reproduced from the originals in Shakur's handwriting, personalized by distinctive spelling and use of ideographs, complete with scratch outs and corrections. Some poems are also accompanied by his drawings. There are a few black-and-white photographs also. The poems are passionate, sometimes angry, and often compelling. What makes this book of poetry unique is that the preface is written by Tupac Shakur's mother, the foreword was written by Nikki Giovanni, a famous poet and activist. The introduction was written by his manager, Leila Steinburg.

 

Review Excerpts-

“The book delivers insight into Tupac’s private thoughts and evidence that even a successful rapper with “thug life” tattooed on his body had gentle and introspective feelings as well as smoldering resentment and rage. Good fan stuff, a primary resource for things 2pak, and a likely circulation builder for hip-hop-intensive collections.” - Booklist Review

 

Connections-

-Tupac Shakur explores themes such as growing up, surpassing expectations, and persevering. Discuss with the students about theme and how it helps in developing a well-written poem. Have the students read a poem from “The Rose That Grew from Concrete” independently and jot down the themes that occur throughout. Have students support their stance with the text. Put the students in small groups and have each student present their themes and evidence. As a whole group, have students share their themes.

-Have students use  “The Rose That Grew from Concrete” to compare with the informational text, Frida Kahlo by JessicaMcBirney | CommonLit, to discuss how both texts explore the theme of overcoming adversity.

 

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