Reading With A Rapper is redefining what summer reading looks like for Houston students. With the launch of its 2025 “Lost & Found” challenge, the program blends books, beats, and self-expression to inspire young minds across the city.
In partnership with Hibbett and the Houston Public Library, the program is designed to engage middle school students through real-world storytelling, culturally relevant books, and creative expression.
Recommended Videos
Running July 1 through July 25, the Lost & Found challenge is open to students entering grades 6 through 8. Students will dive into curated books across four central themes: sports, technology, music, and culture.
The goal? To inspire a deeper connection to reading by linking literature to the cultural interests and everyday lives of Houston’s youth.
To participate, students must apply online at readingwitharapper.com and visit any Houston Public Library location to check out at least one book using a MYLink library card. Once they’ve read the book, students will submit a one to three-minute video explaining how the story and RWAR’s Lost & Found Curriculum Musical Project influenced or inspired them.
The Top 50 participants will score an invitation to an exclusive Back-to-School Sneaker Party hosted at a Houston Hibbett store. The celebration will include live performances from artist Buddieroe, appearances by a Reading With A Rapper student athlete, and brand-new back-to-school gear, including a free pair of Nike sneakers and a Nike backpack.
“Our mission is to show that literacy is more than just books—it’s the foundation of culture, creativity, and confidence,” said Jarren Small, Co-Founder and CEO of Reading With A Rapper. “By meeting students where they are, both mentally and physically, we’re turning libraries and Hibbett stores into launchpads for growth.”
Sandy Gaw, Director of the Houston Public Library, praised the partnership, calling it a “dynamic program that combines reading with real-life incentives and cultural connection.”
“By making libraries a gateway to creativity, community, and personal expression, we are helping our youth discover that literacy is a superpower,” she said.
Sarah Sharp-Wangaard, VP of Marketing at Hibbett, echoed the enthusiasm, adding, “Encouraging young readers is one of the most meaningful ways we can invest in their future, because strong minds create bright futures.”
To learn more and apply for the challenge, visit readingwitharapper.com.