This title examines the fascinating life of Kanye West. Readers will learn about West's childhood, family, education, and rise to fame, as well as controversies over his outspoken opinions. Colorful graphics, oversize photos, and informative sidebars accompany easy-to-read, compelling text that explores West's early interest in rap and talent in songwriting that led to producing beats for other artists and eventually the release of his albums The College Dropout, Late Registration, Graduation, 808s and Heartbreak, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, and Watch the Throne. West's Grammy Awards, fashion design, and work as a producer are also discussed. Features include a table of contents, glossary, selected bibliography, Web links, source notes, and an index, plus a timeline and fun facts. Contemporary Lives is a series in Essential Library, an imprint of ABDO Publishing Company.