Queen of the Scene

by Queen Latifah, Frank Morrison (Illustrator)

This little ruler of the playground has got game. Basketball, stickball, jump–rope, soccer–there's nothing she won't try. And watch out, boys, because she's representing all the ladies and has girl power to the max. Queen Latifah, the Grammy Award–winning First Lady of Hip–Hop, teams up with the Caldecott Honor artist Frank Morrison in a celebration of spirit and pride. Ages 3 – 8

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens, Sports, African American, Fiction, Juvenile

32 pages, Hardcover

First published September 26, 2006

About the author

Dana Elaine Owens, better known by her stage name Queen Latifah, is an American rapper, singer, model, actress and CoverGirl model. Latifah's work in music, film and television has earned her a Golden Globe award, two Screen Actors Guild Awards, two Image Awards, a Grammy Award, six additional Grammy nominations, an Emmy Award nomination and an Academy Award nomination.

Reviews

[J-Lynn Van Pelt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Written and rapped (on a provided CD) this book is heavy on rythym, rhyme, and repetition. Queen is a precocious little girl who is good at any sport and ready to challenge boys and girls to keep her title.

The illustrations could be used as an example of perspective, some show wide scenes and others close ups with a lot of motion. The pictures are in bold colors whowing Queen wearing a dress and jeans as well as a supporting cast of multicultural children who are constantly in her wake.

[Shone · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoy seeing the smiles on children's faces when I read stories to them,

[Ryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Normally I would say the rhymes in this book are harsh. Please notice I said normally! In a typical rhyming picture books these rhymes would be harsh. But if a reader gets their mind out of the way, and read this more as a rap song, it has flare. It has beat! And it a flow. Of course, Queen Latifah could write a fantastic picture book. And while I know this book is dated, it doesn’t feel dated. It still feels relevant. It still feels lasting. And some versions came with a CD of Queen Latifah reading the book herself which I really wish I could have heard because I bet that’s even better. This is illustrated by Frank Morrison, who is an award-winning children’s book illustrator. The illustrations are perfect. They match the style, the grace, the beat, and the fun of Queen Latifah.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rhythmic and oozing with self-confidence, Latifah’s character lists her strengths.

[Gail Barge]

This book comes with a CD recording of Queen Latifah rapping the book. So cool! I loved the pride and encouragement this book gives to young girls (and boys for that matter). It is all about being brave in any situation life gives you. This would be a book I would share with my young girl students struggling with self-confidence or courage. A good book to connect to the arts as well. It would be fun for students to read the book and perform it themselves and compare their performance to that of Queen Latifah.

[Renae Williams]

Who knew Queen Latifah had a childrens book! I sure didnt. I loved the bold and bright illustrations, and the main character is just as bold and bright. This book is empowering for young girls, and it proves that girls can excel in anything they put their minds to. All women are winners when they exude confidence and self-worth. I would reccommend this book to all young girls who need a little boost in the confidence area.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome, enjoyable, empowering, and something I plan to incorporate into my classroom. It seems like it would be a great way to teach phonemic awareness to older kids. And I just love the positive message.

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

My students enjoyed the CD that accompanied the book. It made it a different experience for them. I like the deeper meaning about always trying your best and that there was an African American girl as the main narrator.

[Drew Paige · Rating 2 out of 5]

I personally do not like books that put emphasis on one character being better than everyone else. Instead of focusing on being equal Queen Latifah focuses on if your not first your last motto. The main girl seems to be more of a bully than a good representation of women.

[Andrea · Rating 2 out of 5]

I like the idea that girls can stand tall and be the best if they believe in themselves, but I'm not sure this book by Queen Latifah does that. To me, it feels like a brag book about a girl who is the best at everything...

[Edward Creter · Rating 4 out of 5]

A cool book of girls in sports and the celebration of girl power, and who better than the Queen of Rap Ms. Latifah to write this one? It makes sense! All hail the Queen and show some respect, not just for Latifah, but for girls everywhere, and let's honor girls and women everywhere!

[Kim C-B · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book that teaches self-esteem. I encourage all parents and teachers to read this book aloud to children of all ages.

[Dolly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun story that shows that even girls can be a bit of a show-off on the playground. CD with Queen Latifah rapping the narrative is included.

[Nancy · Rating 1 out of 5]

Love Queen Latifah but am disappointed in her rendition of a children's books. It could have been so much stronger and meaningful. Loved the illustrations and now know why it was $3 at T.J. Maxx.

[Sheila · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great book about self confidence and being the best you can be. The book comes with a free cd that kids will love to sing along with as they read this rap-like story!

[Kenzie Ramsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a gril who is all about her she is better then anyone and she is really cool this is my favorite children's book.

[Psanders · Rating 5 out of 5]

.

[Natasha · Rating 2 out of 5]

The flow of the writing is horrible but I love the illustrations.

[Winter Sophia Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

Positive & Uplifting!

[Ms. Arca · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one resonates with me. I was a bit of a queen of the scene (or so I thought!) growing up. I love the swag, flow, and zest for life that she has. Go ahead, Queen!

I loved this one!

[Deja Bertucci]

confidence, girl power, girls playing sports, rhyme