School Library Journal Review
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. VERDICT Readers may want to look elsewhere for a rapping good time.-Christopher Lassen, BookOps: The New York Public Library and Brooklyn Public Library © Copyright 2016. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Horn Book Review
Rappy (Rappy the Raptor) returns to face the first day of school. When a classmate gets bullied, Rappy creates a diversion by rapping, and a friendship is forged. The story is unfocused, and the slick illustrations are as uninspired as its rhymes: "Is it time to go? / Does anyone know? / What do I put my stuff in? / Can I have another muffin? (c) Copyright 2017. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
