Unsigned Hype

This was an interesting book. Totally outside of what I usually read. It's a YA book, but very urban in feel. I think it's an important voice that hasn't been heard a lot in the past. The book shows that even in that environment, it is possible to live your life with integrity and honesty and faith. I thought the book was really good. For those readers who really aren't familiar with the hip-hop culture, it gives some really good insight. At the same time, I know if it weren't for the blog tour I probably wouldn't have picked this one up. But I'm glad I did have the opportunity to read it. [...]

I'm a person who fully believes in the importance of reaching the youth. The problem that usually prevents us from doing this is we don't try to reach the youth where they're at. Enter filmmaker and author Booker T. Mattison and his debut novel, Unsigned Hype. From a reader's perspective, the book doesn't miss a beat; I read the book in one sitting, captured by the music backdrop, the tight writing, the well developed characters, and the drama that ensues well to the end of the novel. As a person, the book touches me because it meets the youth where they are, where their dreams are, where their trips and stumbles through life are, and it shows youth that having faith, having God is important. That with him and your faith, you can still have your dreams--even if they're a little altered due to their journey. I definitely recommend this book to all readers interested in a strong story and an equally strong message. Looking forward to see what Mattison puts out next.

I'll be honest. When I agreed to review this book I didn't expect to like it. I mean, what do I have in common with an urban hip-hop artist? A teenage boy, at that! But... the storyline intrigued me so I gave it a try. And I was pleasantly surprised! It was very well-written, great plot, and I loved the adult role models throughout the book that Tory learned from. I highly recommend it!

I am thoroughly impressed with this debut novel. Why? Because Unsigned Hype pulled me into the head of a young man who attends an inner city school and is quickly getting recognition for his musical talent. For me the sign of a truly great novel is when the story transports you to a world different than your own. This story does just that. I didn't want to do anything except read this book. And not because it was full of junk, but because it felt real to me. Obviously "keeping it real" doesn't need to include a bunch of trash because a lot can be said without being said. If you are street smart you know what the author means. I think that is the main reason that Unsigned Hype will appeal to urban youth. It doesn't hurt that the author has credibility from his own experiences in life either. This story clearly shows the slippery slope that one must travel when fame and recognition comes your way. The more naive you are, the harder it is to stay clean. Mr. Mattison did an excellent job showing how teens can still keep their heart right in the midst of temptation and how even the best kids can get hit with the worst knocks if they're in the wrong place at the wrong time or hook up with the wrong people. I loved the young girl in the story, Precious Lord. Yeah, that was her name. Cute, eh? She was great for Tory and so was her father. The strength of family and love from people who have integrity and good character shines brightly throughout this novel. I found it very inspiring when contrasted with the emptiness of what the world pushes at young people. For that Mr. Mattison gets high marks from me! I hope to read the next book in his series. If it's half as good as this one I'm in for a treat!

A new book in a genre that needed diversity and a look into the dreams and hearts of a boy who wants to be a man too soon. Tory lost his dad to a street mugging when he was younger and inherited his collection of vinyl albums. No one can mix the beats like Tory and his talent opens a lot of doors at an age where he may or may not be able to hand the fame that comes with his own spot on the largest radio station in the region. Tory's character seems real, and so does that of the mom who just wants her boy to the man his father was. It's a good book and I look forward to more from the author.