Despite his tragic and untimely death nine years ago, the legacy of the late rapper Tupac Amaru Shakur continues to live on through his inspirational music, spoken word projects and movies.

Thanks to his close friend Gobi (also director of his last three music videos), a book entitled "Thru My Eyes: Thoughts on Tupac Amaru Shakur in Pictures and Words" will hit stores next week.

Gobi has compiled a compelling assortment of 50 color and black and white photographic images complemented by personal commentary.

These pictures, never before published, reflect the final year of Tupac’s life in 1996.

During this time Gobi played an instrumental role in producing and directing music and videos for Tupac’s feature film company.

The result was not merely a business partnership, but also a close friendship.

"Thru My Eyes" seeks to capture the true essence of Tupac by revealing the many facets of his personality.

Gobi offers an array of candid pictures that convey the multitude of personalities and moods that are Tupac.

Gobi’s main objective is to reveal Tupac as an individual, not simply another manufactured “pop-idol.”

“Photos taken on video and film sets underscore Pac’s true work ethic,” Gobi said. “Tupac could work twenty-two hours a day, raising the bar for everyone working alongside him. A true revolutionist, Tupac understood tomorrow was promised to no one.”

The book begins with a forward by Tupac’s mother, Afeni Shakur Davis, who says that "Thru My Eyes" "offers a personal view that warrants exposure."

The book closes with Gobi’s personal and poignant account of how it felt to sit idle during Tupac’s seven days of hospitalization.

A portion of the book’s proceeds will be donated to the Tupac Amaru Shakur Foundation http://www.tasf.com.

In addition to the book, Gobi plans to direct the only script written by Tupac, "Live 2 Tell" in March 2006.

Afeni Shakur sums up "Thru Our Eyes" best in her forward: “This book is Gobi’s way of honoring my son and sharing his experience. . .I thank you, Gobi, for being my son’s friend.”

"Thru My Eyes: Thoughts on Tupac Amaru Shakur In Pictures and Words" hits stores Nov. 1