C Is for Country
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
Suggest an Update
A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that C Is for Country is a colorful alphabet book as playful and positive as its author, hip-hop/country star Lil Nas X, known for his 2019 mega-hit song "Old Town Road." The illustrations, by Theodore Taylor III, are soft and bright, and match the energy and tone of each page. Showing a young boy enjoying fake fur and a purple cowboy hat reminds readers that being your authentic self can be blissful. While some of the vocabulary is fairly standard for a children's book (W is for water, D is for dirt), there are also some unexpected words (F is for fringe and S is for swag) that are fun for young readers and a delightful fit with Lil Nas X's personality.
Community Reviews
ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT
Report this review
What's the Story?
Words are front and center in C IS FOR COUNTRY, by country/hip-hop star Lil Nas X, with each page showing his young self on a ranch and things in his life that start with a particular letter. He starts his day with a new adventure (A is for adventure) in the country, playing in dirt, riding his horse, and riding on the Old Town Road. As evening comes, he eats dinner with his family, says goodnight to his horse, and settles in for a good sleep (Z is for zzzzzzzzz).
Is It Any Good?
Learning the alphabet is fun and playful here, and with sweet, inclusive illustrations that reflect author Lil Nas X's embrace of individuality. C Is for Country is a fairly standard alphabet book, but young readers who are fans of the author will see his personality on the pages, especially with the fringe and purple clothing and hat. Young fans of horses can enjoy his adventures with his pony, Panini. The book's tone is upbeat, and and it's full of warmth and fun.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about which parts of the boy's day in C Is for Country are similar to theirs, and which are different. Did seeing the things he does throughout the day give you any ideas for what you can do?
Can you think of other words that would go with each letter? Are there any words that sound so silly they make you laugh?
What other alphabet books do you like?
Book Details
- Author: Lil Nas X
- Illustrator: Theodore Taylor III
- Genre: Alphabet
- Topics: Adventures, Horses and Farm Animals, Numbers and Letters
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers
- Publication date: January 5, 2021
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 3 - 7
- Number of pages: 40
- Available on: Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
- Last updated: January 5, 2021
Our Editors Recommend
-
R Is for Robot: A Noisy Alphabet
Robots + loud sounds = lots of phonics fun.
-
Creature ABC
Part alphabet book, part captivating animal encounter.
-
A Is for ART
Abstract art + alphabetic alliteration = amazing ABC book.
For kids who love alphabet apps
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate