Tough Love: A Panel on the Life and Lyrics of Tupac Shakur, is edited by Michael Datcher, a Los Angeles-based writer and editor; and Kwame Alexander, Virginia-based publisher and author of Just Us: poems and counter poems, 1986-1995 (Black Words).

Tough Love, is a collection of essays, commentary and poems examining the social, cultural, and economic implications of the life and death of the "gangsta" rapper. The controversial life and violent death of Tupac Shakur has sparked significant discussion inside and outside of the Hip-Hop Community on what happened to this young black man, and why it happened. "We wanted to do a book that not only reflected the varying feelings and opinions surrounding Tupac's ascension and downfall, but also one that would offer some direction by providing a sensitive analysis of his life and his lyrics," says co-editor, Kwame Alexander.Views in the book ranges in perspective from Tru Hip Hop Aficionado to Staunch Black Womanist. Datcher and Alexander, in less than a month, gather writings from a talented crop of over 20 young Black writers. contributors include Bakari Kitwana, Michael Eric Dyson, Esther Iverem, D-knowledge and others Some of the contributors will be on hand for a panel discussion.