Rappy Goes to School

Gr 1–3—Rappy the Raptor is back, and this time he tackles the universal experience of the first day of school. Rappy expresses his enthusiasm through rhyme to the excitement of his parents and schoolmates. When he encounters one of his classmates being bullied, he uses the power of rap to come to his aid and stands up to the big bad bully in the process. He makes a new friend and shows everyone that school can be cool. The author's note in the beginning of the volume implores parents not to read the book but to "RAP IT!" Many readers, especially younger ones, may find this difficult, as the rhythm of many of the lines is off and will prove to be a challenge. Bowers's digital illustrations capture the happy expressions of many of the characters. This is a slight story that readers may not find enthralling. Those seeking this type of tale may want to turn to Chris Raschka's Hip Hop Dog.