Welcome to the Cypher

“A fun read-aloud and a safe introduction to hip-hop as a pathway to healthy child development.”

Kirkus Reviews, 07/27/21

“Dill has created a wonderful story that shines a light on an art form that is rarely represented in literature, particularly in children’s literature. The rhyming syntax makes WELCOME TO THE CYPHER a great book to read aloud and for readers to interact with. This wonderful and fun story encourages kids to be themselves and to support one another to speak up for what they believe in. This book is recommended for school-aged children and would be perfect to be read aloud in the classroom and shared with friends and family. Highly Recommended.”

CM Reviews, 09/03/21

“This lovely book is all about being brave, stepping up, and being heard.”

Booklist, 10/15/21

“With a cadence and beat in the text itself, and accompanied by energetic illustrations, this will make an affirming addition to a poetry or music unit . . . encouraging readers to find within themselves “a voice that represents me!””

School Library Journal, *starred review, 11/21

“Rap’s immense capacity to express and shape ourselves and the world is presented in this fun and engaging audiobook that sweeps listeners along on a musical journey of self-expression . . . for a storybook about an inherently audible subject, the audiobook medium perfectly conveys the content, especially as the author raps the words, leaving no doubt about how it is meant to be read aloud.”

Canadian Children’s Book News, 01/01/23