57 pages • 1 hour read
Let Me Hear a Rhyme
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Book Brief
400
Novel • Fiction
Brooklyn, New York • 1990s
2019
YA
14-18 years
Super Short Summary
In Let Me Hear a Rhyme by Tiffany D. Jackson, after the murder of aspiring teenage rapper Steph in 1990s Brooklyn, his friends Quadir and Jarrell, along with his sister Jasmine, market his music as if he were still alive, leading to escalating lies and dangerous situations while they uncover the truth behind his death. The novel addresses themes of music's power, grief, and justice. This guide and the source text mention murder, violence, and teenage drinking and drug use.
Mysterious
Nostalgic
Emotional
Bittersweet
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
6,727 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Tiffany D. Jackson's Let Me Hear a Rhyme impresses with its compelling fusion of mystery and coming-of-age themes, set against a vivid 1990s Brooklyn backdrop. Reviewers applaud its authentic portrayal of friendship, grief, and hip-hop culture. While some criticize the pacing and multiple points of view, the novel's emotional depth and cultural resonance are widely appreciated.
Who Should Read Let Me Hear a Rhyme?
Let Me Hear a Rhyme by Tiffany D. Jackson captivates readers who enjoy young adult fiction blending mystery, cultural richness, and social themes. Fans of Angie Thomas’s The Hate U Give and Jason Reynolds’s Long Way Down will find its 1990s Brooklyn backdrop and exploration of music, friendship, and justice particularly engaging.
6,727 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Jasmine
Jasmine
Steph’s 15-year-old sister, one of the novel's narrators, who navigates her grief and continues her brother's musical legacy.
Quadir
Quadir
One of Steph's best friends and narrators, who is loyal and considerate, striving to promote Steph's music while making decisions about his own future.
Jarrell
Jarrell
Steph’s 16-year-old best friend and narrator, known for his impulsiveness and deep convictions, who plays a crucial role in getting Steph’s music to the public.
Mr. and Mrs. Davis
Mr. and Mrs. Davis
Steph, Jasmine, and Carl's parents, who represent resilience and the enduring impact of family values on their children’s lives.
Dante
Dante
A local kid around the same age as Steph and his friends, whose connections and choices impact the dynamics of the narrative.
Mack
Mack
A nearby resident known for selling drugs and presenting a duplicitous image within the community.
Pierce
Pierce
A music industry professional from Red Starr Entertainment who becomes instrumental in promoting Steph’s music and supporting Jasmine.
400
Novel • Fiction
Brooklyn, New York • 1990s
2019
YA
14-18 years
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