Chris Dudley, born and raised in Grand Rapids, recalls how attending Madison Park Elementary (now Gerald R. Ford Academic Center), shaped him into an award-winning artist and author. His latest work is the Childrens’ book Lil Boogaloo Shrimp and the Clean Sweep.

Dudley describes how the movie “Breakin’” came out in 1984 when he was 8 years old and in the 2nd grade at Madison Park Elementary.  “Dance Battles became a staple on the playground pavilion! No arguments, no fights…just dancing! It was awesome! Fast-forward almost 40 years, and an image I created for another book referenced the movie, and some of the lead actors saw it online. Micheal Chambers (“Turbo” from the movie) and I started some dialogue that eventually led to our launching this project,” states Dudley.

“We believe Lil Boogaloo Shrimp and the Clean Sweep, is the FIRST EVER children’s book about breakdancing and it teaches kids priority and responsibility in a fun and engaging way. This year (2023) marks 50 years of hip-hop, it’s amazing that break-dancing will be making its debut in the Olympic in Paris 2024! That’s referenced in the book as well.”

He says his advice for young students is to keep drawing…into your teens, late teens, and adulthood. Always remain a “student” of the craft.

His book can be purchased at Hudson Dawn Publishing.