Black Hair in Children's Literature: Fiction Picture Books

When Vivian was 5 she was preparing to embark on a new life experience - a new school. As any person at any age would be, she was nervous. She was leaving behind the comfort of her Montessori pre-school and entering a land of unknown and scary Elementary School. One of Vivian's many special characteristics which makes her so unique is her thick, beautiful, curly hair. Vivian and her mom have a daily bonding ritual where every morning she and her mother work Vivian's hair until a masterpiece is created. . This book captures 7 days of hair choices which power Little Miss Crazy Hair's ability to fly through the air, roar through the jungle, and even command crocodiles to move out of the way. But this book is not only about hair styles and imaginary adventures. It also quietly provides learning and growth opportunities as Little M

Anthony is a perceptive kid. He notices his hair is different from that of his classmates. But why? Join Anthony as he seeks answers from Uncle Neil, a scientist who gladly exposes young Anthony to the scientific possibilities.

This joyous and loving celebration of family is the first-ever picture book to highlight Black nighttime hair traditions--and is perfect for every little girl who knows what it's like to lose her bonnet just before bedtime. In my family, when the sun goes down, our hair goes up! My brother slips a durag over his locs. Sis swirls her hair in a wrap around her head. Daddy covers his black waves with a cap. Mama gathers her corkscrew curls in a scarf. I always wear a bonnet over my braids, but tonight I can't find it anywhere! Bedtime Bonnet gives readers a heartwarming peek into quintessential Black nighttime hair traditions and celebrates the love between all the members of this close-knit, multi-generational family. Perfect for readers of Hair Love and Crown- An Ode to the Fresh Cut!

Big Hair, Don't Care by Crystal Swain-Bates is a great book for any little one struggling to fit in at school, who may be teased because of her hair. Lola is sassy and cute, and has a great message!.

In this vibrant and exquisitely illustrated picture book, written by Commonwealth Prize-winning Jamaican-Canadian Olive Senior, and with pictures by the acclaimed artist Laura James (the team that created Anna Carries Water), a young girl learns to love her difficult-to-manage, voluminous and boonoonoonous hair.

The bestselling illustrator of I Am Enough brings to life the story of a boy whose mirror gives him a whole new way of seeing himself. Chris loves his long, curly hair, so why do his classmates tease him about it? When he looks for answers in his mirror, something wonderfully wild and weird happens- a lady appears with wise words that make him feel like a king! But when he starts acting like a king at school, it's time for another visit to the mirror. Actor Marchant Davis's uplifting picture book debut encourages us all to look beyond hairstyles-reminding us that styles come and go-and to celebrate one another for who we are. #1 New York Times bestselling illustrator Keturah A. Bobo's stunning art brings Chris and his mirror to vibrant life.

Two poets, one white and one black, explore race and childhood in this must-have collection tailored to provoke thought and conversation. How can Irene and Charles work together on their fifth grade poetry project? They don't know each other . . . and they're not sure they want to. Irene Latham, who is white, and Charles Waters, who is Black, use this fictional setup to delve into different experiences of race in a relatable way, exploring such topics as hair, hobbies, and family dinners. Accompanied by artwork from acclaimed illustrators Sean Qualls and Selina Alko (of The Case for Loving: The Fight for Interracial Marriage), this remarkable collaboration invites readers of all ages to join the dialogue by putting their own words to their experiences.

The "Wild Waiyuuzee" is hiding because Shemama wants to SPLASH her with water, RUB nut-nut oil on her head, and comb her with a piney pig's tail. And after all that happens, the Wild Waiyuuzee knows she won't be a Wild Waiyuuzee anymore.

Mechal Renee Roe, illustrator of Vice President Kamala Harris's Super Heroes Are Everywhere, creates a joyful, positive, read-together book celebrating boys with natural black hair that will have kids everywhere chanting: "I am born to be awesome!" When the stars shine, the world is mine! I am born to be awesome! My hair is free, just like me! I am born to be awesome! Boys will love seeing strong, happy reflections of themselves in this vibrant, rhythmic book full of hip Black hairstyles. From a 'fro-hawk to mini-twists and crisp cornrows, adorable illustrations of boys with cool curls, waves, and afros grace each page, accompanied by a positive message that will make kids cheer. It's a great read-aloud to promote positive self-esteem to boys of all ages, building and growing the foundation of self-love (and hair love!) and letting every boy know that "You are born to be awesome!" Look for all the books in the Happy Hair series: * Happy Hair * I'm Growing Great * Smart Sisters * I Am Born to Be Awesome! (Step Into Reading) * I Love Being Me! (Step Into Reading)

A collection of poems, including First Braids, Grandma's Way, and Mama's Glory, in which an Afro-American girl celebrates herself, her family, and her heritage.

Celebrate the beauty of Black hair creations through the rhyming text and vibrant collage art of lauded Coretta Scott King Award winners Carole Boston Weatherford and Ekua Holmes. Our hair is a lioness, born to be wild. We pride ourselves on flair and style. Cornrows forming complex patterns. Shells and beads on boxy braids. A flowery 'fro that's wash and go. A regal pouf that scrapes the sky. Black hair styles embody beauty and loving ritual, culture and community, expression and strength, patience and boundless creativity. Carole Boston Weatherford and Ekua Holmes bring this array of gorgeous hair designs--and the individuals who wear them--to bold and powerful life. Readers curious to know more can find an author's note about the five Black women who made history in 2019 as title holders of five major beauty pageants, as well as a glossary describing some twenty hair styles (from Afro to updo) and other terms related to the glory of Black hair.

Join Daddy and Beth on a wonderful hair adventure in this heart-warming story, which celebrates the unique and special relationship between a father and child. The perfect rhyming picture book read for every family, this is a book to be shared time and time again. This is the first book in the 'Daddy Do My Hair?' series.

An entertaining picture book that teaches the importance of asking for permission first as a young girl attempts to escape the curious hands that want to touch her hair. It seems that wherever Aria goes, someone wants to touch her hair. In the street, strangers reach for her fluffy curls; and even under the sea, in the jungle, and in space, she's chased by a mermaid, monkeys, and poked by aliens . . . until, finally, Aria has had enough! Author-illustrator Sharee Miller takes the tradition of appreciation of black hair to a new, fresh, level as she doesn't seek to convince or remind young readers that their curls are beautiful -- she simply acknowledges black beauty while telling a fun, imaginative story.

Emi is a creative 7-year-old girl with a BIG imagination. In this story Emi shares a positive message about her Curly, Coily, Cotton Candy Hair and what she likes most about it.The vibrant illustrations and fun story teach basic natural hair care techniques and tips in a playful and memorable way.

Hair Like Mine is the first book in the Kids Like Mine Series. It is a fun and easy read following a little girl who doesn't like that her naturally curly hair looks different from the other kids around her. On her quest to find someone with hair like

Zuri's hair has a mind of its own. It kinks, coils, and curls every which way. Zuri knows it's beautiful. When Daddy steps in to style it for an extra special occasion, he has a lot to learn. But he LOVES his Zuri, and he'll do anything to make her -- and her hair -- happy. Tender and empowering, Hair Love is an ode to loving your natural hair -- and a celebration of daddies and daughters everywhere.

Illustrations and rhythmic, rhyming text follow a Boricua girl and a Black girl from birth through early childhood, culminating in a playdate where they celebrate their natural hair.

A joyful exploration of friendship, generosity, and confidence that comes from within. A fresh take on celebrating the beauty of natural textured hair, HAIR TO SHARE tackles the difficulty of childhood medical hair loss and the impact empathy and generosity can have on one's self-esteem. Suri was born with more hair than anyone had ever seen on a baby. As she grew, so did her hair until it eventually reached all the way down to her knees! But when she makes a new friend a girl who has no hair, Suri wants to find a way to help her feel comfortable and confident. Complete with backmatter addressing the many causes of medical hairloss, how to support kids managing hair loss, and how to donate or receive natural hair wigs, this sweet story is the embodiment of generosity and self love.

Happy Hair is a call and response book that promotes positive self-esteem and hair love to girls of all ages! Happy Hair covers different shades and hair types all while being fun and fashionable!

The groundbreaking picture book by legendary author bell hooks and multi-Caldecott Medalist Chris Raschka that celebrates hair, perfect for fans of Hair Love and I Love My Hair! Happy with hair all short and strong. Happy with locks that twist and curl. Just all girl happy! Happy to be nappy hair! Nominated for an NAACP Image Award, here is a buoyantly fun read aloud brimming with playful -- and powerful -- affirmations.

No matter how gently Mama pulls as she combs Keyana's hair, it still hurts.Keyana doesn't feel lucky to have such a head of hair, but Mama tells her she is because she can wear it any way she chooses.

Isabella's Hair and How She Learned to Love It is a story about Isabella, a young girl who lives in Carolina, Puerto Rico. As an Afro-Boricua child, Isabella struggles with understanding the beauty of her natural hair and the color brown. Her grandmother serves as an inspiration towards self acceptance and love. For ages: 5-8

Jordan believes God made a mistake on him because of his hair texture. This beautifully illustrated, full-color hardback book teaches an invaluable lesson in love and self-esteem for children ages 4-8.

JERRY PINKNEY CHILDREN'S BOOK AWARD When Josey wonders why people are so different, Dad helps her understand that our differences aren't a mistake. In fact, we have many differences because God is creative! Josie is spending the day with Dad--getting her hair braided at Monique's Beauty Shop, and picking out a new red dress for Sunday. Because Sunday is Pentecost! In the process, she learns to celebrate the differences she sees all around her as part of God's plan for his creation. Children and the adults who read with them are invited to join Josey as she learns of God's wonderfully diverse design. Also included is a note from the author to encourage further conversation about the content. Discover IVP Kids and share with children the things that matter to God!

In the African American Community, embracing your natural hair is sometimes frowned upon and/or not seen as the norm. This book teaches little brown girls that it is okay to love your natural hair and skin complexion. So, follow Zara's journey as she learns to love her 'kinky hair' with the guidance of her grandmother, who gives her a few uplifting and encouraging words about her hair, history, and culture.

It's wash day and Zara is not excited about wearing her hair in the same styles Mama usually creates. But once Mama takes Zara on a cultural journey to help her understand the significance of each style, wash days will never be the same!

From the world of Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls comes a story based on the life of Madam C.J. Walker, America's first female self-made millionaire. Sarah is the first person in her family who wasn't born into slavery in Delta, Louisiana. But being free doesn't mean that Sarah doesn't have to work. She cooks, she cleans, she picks cotton, she does laundry, and she babysits. And when she works, she wraps up her hair. One day, Sarah's hair starts to fall out! It's itchy, crunchy, patchy, and won't grow. Instead of giving up, Sarah searches for the right products. And then she invents something better than any shampoo or hair oil she's used before. Her hair grows and grows! That's when she decides to rebrand herself as "Madam C. J. Walker," and begins her business empire. Madam C. J. Walker Builds a Business is the story of a leader in the hair care industry, but it's also an inspiring tale about the importance of empowering women to become economically independent. This historical fiction chapter book includes additional text on Madam C. J. Walker's lasting legacy, as well as educational activities designed to encourage entrepreneurship. About the Rebel Girls Chapter Book Series Meet extraordinary real-life heroines in the Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls chapter book series! Introducing stories based on the lives of extraordinary women in global history, each stunningly.

In this celebration of Black Girl Magic, a young girl finds confidence and excitement in the versatility of her natural hair and the way her different hairstyles reflect the natural world. Natural hair is magical, but magic isn't easy. As a young Black girl patiently waits for her mother to finish her newest hairstyle, she wonders what stunning, majestic, awe-inspiring form her hair will take next! With radiant illustrations by Geneva Bowers and beautiful, poetic text written by Samara Cole Doyon, Magic Like That will inspire young readers of all textures to believe in the beauty of their natural selves.

A young boy with an Afro celebrates his uniqueness in this precious and simple story about loving oneself and what makes us different.From 10-year-old debut author, Aiden M. Taylor, comes this self-styled and joyful narrative about feeling comfortable and letting the world know that he loves himself-and his Afro.Filled with vibrant and cheerful illustrations, this book is a perfect read-aloud for families who wish to enjoy together a charming story of self-love and pride; and for those looking for a sweet opportunity to have a dialogue about the uniqueness and beauty of all children.

Mira doesn't like her hair. It curls at the front. It curls at the back. It curls everywhere! She wants it to be straight and smooth, just like her Mama's. But then something unpredictable happens . . . and Mira will never look at her mama's hair the same way again! A delightful celebration of natural hair and the courage it takes to be yourself.

Mom and Dad say I'm a blend of dark and light: "We mixed you perfectly, and got you just right." Mike has awesome hair. He has LOTS of energy! His parents love him. And Mike is a PERFECT blend of the two of them. Still, Mike has to answer LOTS of questions about being mixed. And he does, with LOTS of energy and joy in this charming story about a day in the life of a mixed-race child.

Selected as a Best Book of 2018 by NPR, Kirkus Reviews, School Library Journal, and Shelf Awareness! A young Muslim girl spends a busy day wrapped up in her mother's colorful headscarf in this sweet and fanciful picture book from debut author and illustrator Jamilah Tompkins-Bigelow and Ebony Glenn. A khimar is a flowing scarf that my mommy wears. Before she walks out the door each day, she wraps one around her head. A young girl plays dress up with her mother's headscarves, feeling her mother's love with every one she tries on. Charming and vibrant illustrations showcase the beauty of the diverse and welcoming community in this portrait of a young Muslim American girl's life.

A fresh and fun celebration of natural hair for babies and toddlers! My Hair is the perfect introduction to an array of beautiful hairstyles for tiny naturalistas-in-training! Known for her popular Black Queens and Black Kings coloring books for adults, Danielle Murrell Cox creates a colorful and bouncy board book to pair with favorites such as Happy to Be Nappy by bell hooks; Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry; and I Love My Hair by Natasha Anastasia Tarpley. A great gift for baby showers, birthdays, and other special occasions!

Join one little girl's search for the BEST party hair - as demonstrated by her family and friends. Will it be dreads or a twist out? Braids or a high-top fade? Joyous and vibrant, this captures perfectly the excitement of getting ready for a celebration, as well as showcasing a dazzling array of intricate hairstyles. This is a glorious debut from an exciting new partnership who both emerged from the FAB Prize for undiscovered BAME writers and illustrators.

NEA'S READ ACROSS AMERICA 2019-2020 CALENDAR Like every good garden, my hair must be cared for and nourished, tilled, and weeded. After a day of being taunted by classmates about her unruly hair, Mackenzie can't take any more and she seeks guidance from her wise and comforting neighbor, Miss Tillie. Using the beautiful garden in the backyard as a metaphor, Miss Tillie shows Mackenzie that maintaining healthy hair is not a chore nor is it something to fear. Most importantly, Mackenzie learns that natural black hair is beautiful.

This little girl knows her hair is great just as it is. When people ask, "Why is your hair so BIG?" she answers, "Why isn't yours?" Her hair is soft, it protects her, it's both gentle and fierce. While some might worry about how it's different and try to contain it, she gives it the freedom to be so extraordinary it almost has a life of its own. Told in bold verse and vivid, fantastical illustrations, these critical questions will ring familiar, and the proud, confident answers show that what really matters is how readers see themselves.

A dedicated mom puts love into action as she creates the perfect rainbow-colored wig for her transgender daughter, based on the real-life experience of mother-daughter advocate duo Trinity and DeShanna Neal. Warm morning sunlight and love fill the Neal home. And on one quiet day, playtime leads to an important realization-Trinity wants long hair like her dolls. She needs it to express who she truly is. So her family decides to take a trip to the beauty supply store, but none of the wigs is the perfect fit. Determined, Mom leaves with bundles of hair in hand, ready to craft a wig as colorful and vibrant as her daughter is. With powerful text by Trinity and DeShanna Neal and radiant art by Art Twink, My Rainbow is a celebration of showing up as our full selves with the people who have seen us fully all along.

  You sure do got some nappy hair on your head, don't you?  Well. It's your hair Brenda, take the cake. Yep. In a unique and vibrant picture book that uses the African-American call-and-response tradition, a family talks back and forth about adorable Brenda's hair--it's the nappiest, the curliest, the twistiest hair in the whole family. The family delights in poking gentle fun with their hilarious descriptions, all the time discovering the beauty and meaning of Brenda's hair. Soulful, funny, full of rhythm, and bursting with family pride, Nappy Hair is accessible to people of all ages. Joe Cepeda's colors are ripe but youthful, sweet but bold--with lots of kid appeal. A must for reading aloud, Nappy Hair is a meaningful and completely captivating reading experience. Nobody who has nappy hair--or know someone with nappy hair--will be able to forget little Brenda!  

Natalie's hair is really wild--and she likes it that way! A host of friendly animals agree, and they move right in. At first it's just butterflies and birds that take up residence atop Natalie's head, but soon there are zebras, elephants, even a tiger! With all the roaring and squawking and snorting and burping, poor Natalie can hardly sleep. She needs to find someone to help coax those critters out . . . but who? Inspired by the author's own childhood adventures with her hair, this playful fantasy will delight all girls and boys who resist having their tresses tamed.

Penny wanted to wear her hair "down" like all of the other girls in her class. She wondered why her friends had long straight hair and she did not. Feeling different made her feel sad. Penny's mom assured her that her hair is perfect. Just because her hair is different from her friends hair, it didn't mean that it was bad. Penny's mom decides to style her hair in puffballs, magic puffballs. Penny learns though a series of fun adventures, that wonderful and magical things happen when she wears her puffballs.

Princesses with curls wear pearls. Princesses with head wraps take long naps. And princesses with teeny-weeny Afros wear teeny-weeny bows. Celebrate different hair shapes, textures, and styles in this self-affirming picture book! From dreadlocks to blowouts to braids, Princess Hair shines a spotlight on the beauty and diversity of black hair, showing young readers that every kind of hair is princess hair. Debut author-illustrator Sharee Miller encourages confidence and pride in this playful, colorful picture book that teaches readers to love every bit of themselves.

In her second adventure, Princess Truly's magical curls and belief in herself transport her back in time and help her reach for the stars!I love my fluffy, puffy curls.I'm so happy they are mine.When I believe in myself,They shimmer and they shine.Princess Truly is back! In the second Princess Truly adventure, Truly's magical, sparkling curls have the power to transport her to exciting new places like the Egyptian pyramids, the Jurassic period, and even into outer space. With curiosity, bravery, and her signature smarts, Princess Truly once again proves that she can do anything she sets her mind to and reminds girls everywhere to reach for the stars, believe in themselves, and dream big!

THE INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER!   A powerful, vibrantly illustrated story about the first day of school--and two sisters on one's first day of hijab--by Olympic medalist and social justice activist Ibtihaj Muhammad. And don't miss The Kindest Red, a story of hijab and friendship, available for preorder now!   With her new backpack and light-up shoes, Faizah knows the first day of school is going to be special. It's the start of a brand new year and, best of all, it's her older sister Asiya's first day of hijab--a hijab of beautiful blue fabric, like the ocean waving to the sky. But not everyone sees hijab as beautiful, and in the face of hurtful, confusing words, Faizah will find new ways to be strong. Paired with Hatem Aly's beautiful, whimsical art, Olympic medalist Ibtihaj Muhammad and Morris Award finalist S.K. Ali bring readers an uplifting, universal story of new experiences, the unbreakable bond between siblings, and of being proud of who you are.

Told in rhyming verse, this book, Puffy: people whose hair defies gravity is a children's book of text and photographs featuring kids, teens, adults, and families with naturally puffy hair. The selection of photos primarily reflects people of the African diaspora, and it includes people of Asian, Latina/o, Arab, and Jewish heritage, as well.It is designed to provide puffy-haired kids with positive images, and to provide all of us with an opportunity to celebrate the wonderful diversity of our world.

Meet Jelaya (jeh-LAY-uh.) She hates wash day. The tugs! The scrubs! The pinching and pulling! Jelaya can't think of a worse way to spend the day. That is, until her big sister Jazmin explains that this wash day will be different. Jelaya is going to wash Jazmin's hair instead!  Wash Day is a sweet and honest exploration of the beauty and tradition of wash days. Offering gentle guidance and framing the all-day affair as an act of self-care, this picture book also serves as an avenue to demystify and educate others on natural haircare routines, which are often misunderstood and stigmatized.   Mayo Clinic Press Kids creates empowering health and wellness content in partnership with pediatric experts. Proceeds from the sale of every book go to benefit important medical research and education at Mayo Clinic.  

When Mama Braids My Hair captures a young girl's experience of having her hair braided and the bond it creates with her mother. The tradition of African hair braiding is more than just a Sunday routine. Come join Nikki on an adventure as she is transformed into an Egyptian queen, a Nigerian goddess, a Zulu warrior, and a Maasai girl. While young girls throughout the African Diaspora can relate to getting their hair braided in intricate styles, it is also an ancient ritual that is a large part of their history. Readers will enjoy going on an adventure with the main character and learning about the origins of popular braided hairstyles worn today.

In this rhyming story, an African American girl hides when it's time to comb and braid her hair.