Review: Bitsy Bop Hold Your Head Up High by Takisha Payne

Today's read steers into hip-hop dreams and fun. This is the second book in a series (the first, I didn't read). The spunk of the main character with her bright pink hairstyle caught my interest. Plus, I can't remember ever reading a picture book, which centers around the dreams of becoming a hip-hop dancer. 

This one did surprise me, and you can see why below. 

BITSY BOP

HOLD YOUR HEAD UP HIGH

by Takisha Payne

Illustrated by Agus Prajogo

Mascot Books

Picture Book

38 pages

ages 4 to 8

This book continues the story of Bitsy Bop, a young hip-hop dancer. Inside these pages, learn how Bitsy Bop uses her skills on a reality television contest, Kids on the Groove. Will she succeed in winning the competition? You’ll have to read to see what happens!

MASCOT BOOKS    /     AMAZON    /     B&N

BOOK BLINK

                                              * main character full of determination

                                              * bright and well-done illustrations

                                              * rhymes nicely

                                              * allows tension to come across well

MY TIDBITS

Hip-hop dreams come to life in an inspiring and yet realistic way, and will leave listeners wishing they could join Bitsy Bop on stage.

Bitsy Bop can't believe she's been chosen for the reality show contest on TV. The competition won't be easy, but Bitsy Bop is ready to give her all.

Bitsy Bop is a girl to love. Not only does her hair style set her apart from usual picture book characters, but she shares a dream not often hit upon for this age group. Bitsy Bop wants to be a hip-hop dancer...the best one in the world. I didn't read the first book in this series, but that wasn't a problem. It was simple to immediately root for Bitsy Bop and understand how nervous she was. Her determination is inspiring and it's fun to watch her get up on stage and give her all.

The text is easy enough for the age group to understand, is kept short and sweet, and even rhymes without feeling forced. It's easy to connect with the tale and feel a connection to Bitsy Bop. But then, it's the illustrations which really help Bitsy Bop shine. Her family's support, her moves, and the amazing stage all come across clearly and weave together to form a fun read.

I was surprised how well done this one is and can recommend Bitsy Bop to young hip-hop fans.