My Hip Hop Story
Published February 9, 2023
Written by Gil Lara, Illustrated by DonCarlos Salinas
My Hip Hop Story takes readers on a short, educational journey and is suitable for all ages. This beautifully illustrated story arc showcases the various artistic disciplines behind "Hip Hop" culture. The "four elements of hip hop", covered in this children's book are breakdance, graffiti art, emceeing (rap), and the art of DJ'ing.
'My Hip Hop Story' is told through the eyes of young children in a classroom and incorporates memories of their talented elders. This passion piece was created using approachable words and imagery, making it a fun read for anyone; from child, to parent and even grandparents. While this is a children's book, there's something for everyone in it! The creators also hope to see this book used as a fun coffee table book or keepsake for anyone looking for a way to show respect to the culture. If you look closely, you will find several "easter eggs" which we have included not only for you; the fans of hip hop, but to pique the curiosity of the generations ahead of us.
There's no other book in this genre like 'My Hip Hop Story' and whether you are a hip hop parent, the 'cool and cultured' relative, or just a good gift-giver, we hope you enjoy our book.
HOW THE BOOK CAME TO BE
Initial Sketches
The initial design process started with a pen and sketchbook. Drawing out the beginnings of what would become the My Hip Hop Story book. I then moved over to using a iPad Pro (12.9 inch). Working with Gil, the author, we began to sketch out some ideas based on the story he had written. These are some of the initial sketches that were used for references for the final illustrations.
Initial sketch of the opening classroom scene.
A sketch of the little girl sharping her lyrical skills.
Initial sketch of the boy in the backyard practicing his drawing and painting skills.
Reference sketches that were used for the graffiti scenes.
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT
When we began the process of creating the character we started with only one main character but quickly discovered that we would need to add more than one character. Using reference images, we developed a look and feel for three new characters to help tell the story.
ENVIRONMENT DEVELOPMENT
We needed to create a environment for the character to live in. First it started with the classroom scene. Then the girl learning to breakdance in her room. The visual library started to expand each page began to come alive. Figuring out how to color the illustrations was next.
Black and white illustration of the little girl learning how to breakdance, mimicking her father.
Black and white illustration of the little boy practicing his graff skills.
Black and white illustration of a mother reading her ‘Book of Rhymes’ to her daughter.
Black and white illustration of a little boy digging through some crates while his dad spinnings some vinyl.
FINAL ILLUSTRATION
The final step in the design process was to find a color scheme that would be consistent thought the entire book. There was a lot of trail and error to get the right color combinations but we finally got it right. A total of 14 color swatches were used in different combination to create these final scenes.
Full color illustration of the little girl learning how to breakdance, mimicking her father.
Full color illustration of the little boy practicing his graff skills.
Full color illustration of a mother reading her ‘Book of Rhymes’ to her daughter.
Full color illustration of a little boy digging thought some crates while his dad spinnings some vinyl.
JOIN THE CREW!
As parents, it is your responsibility to teach your kids about the four elements of hip hop; DJing, Emceeing, Breakdance and Graffiti. Through these elements, your children will learn about life lessons as well as develop important skills for the future. We are so excited to share our new children's book, My Hip Hop Story, to help parents in this mission. Get your copy today and help your kids learn the powerful lessons that hip hop culture has to offer.
My Hip Hop Story 📖 Now published and available in paperback! - BUY NOW