Like the hard-hitting sounds of a Public Enemy jam, the words of the band's lead singer, Chuck D, excite the mind and senses. In his first book, Chuck D pours out commentary that takes on Hollywood, race, the music industry, the murders of Tupac and the Notorious B.I.G., drugs, and the three E's--education, economics and enforcement. Likening the challenge to "scaling a slick mountain on roller skates," Chuck D lets no one off the hook, putting celebrities and street kids alike on notice that the future is up for grabs...and the only way to be part of it, to be players not victims, is to work...

Missy Elliott always knew what she wanted to be: a superstar. Singing, writing songs, and dreaming of fame helped her get through a rough childhood while maintaining the boldness, creativity, and playfulness that defines the music she makes today. A prolific songwriter and producer on top of being a multiplatinum recording artist, Missy Elliott's contributions to hip-hop culture are countless. Filled with eye-catching, full-color photographs and revealing biographical details, this book chronicles Missy Elliott's life from her early struggles to her great triumphs as one of the most acclaimed...