Welcome to the Cypher

Words burn bright in this joyful celebration of rap, creativity, and self-expression.

"Welcome to the cypher!

Now huddle up nice and snug.

You feel that circle around you?

Well, that's a hip hop hug!"

Starting with beatboxes and fingersnaps, an exuberant narrator introduces kids in his community to the powerful possibilities of rap, from turning "a simple phrase/into imagery that soars" to proclaiming, "this is a voice that represents me!" As Khodi Dill's rhymes heat up, the diverse crew of kids--illustrated in Awuradwoa Afful's bold, energetic style--gain self-confidence and a sense of freedom in this wonderful picture book debut that is perfect for reading aloud.

Author: Khodi Dill
Publisher: Annick Press
Published: 11/30/2021
Pages: 32
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.75lbs
Size: 9.70h x 10.30w x 0.30d
ISBN: 9781773215631
Audience: Ages 4-8

Review Citation(s):
Kirkus Reviews 08/15/2021
Booklist 10/15/2021 pg. 49
School Library Journal 11/01/2021 pg. 60

About the Author

KHODI DILL is a Bahamian-Canadian writer of everything from rap songs to children's literature. He is a practicing anti-racist educator with a passion for social justice and the arts. Khodi is a proud father and partner who lives and writes in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.

AWURADWOA AFFUL is a Ghanaian-Canadian designer, illustrator, and animator. She was born and raised in Toronto, Ontario.