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PICTURE BOOKS
Oso, Maisha

My Hair Is a Book

32 pp. | HarperCollins/Harper | September, 2024 | Trade ISBN 9780063249103 $19.99
(2) K-3 Illustrated by London Ladd. Oso praises the diversity, beauty, and history of Black hair with poetic language in this ode to self-acceptance and cultural identity, joining Barnes's Crown (rev. 11/17) and other similarly celebratory picture books. Through imaginative metaphors, she likens hair to a thesaurus ("There are so many words to describe it"), an atlas ("It contains maps to freedom"), and even a cookbook ("full of the sweetest recipes"), each image rich in cultural significance. Ladd's (recently Black Gold, rev. 1/23) dynamic illustrations present a vibrant exhibition of color and texture, using acrylic paint, cut paper, and tissue paper to encapsulate the pride in embracing one's distinctive hair. Each illustration vibrates with movement and vitality. The text dances across the page, following the rhythm of Oso's poetry. This is an empowering picture book for promoting discussions about representation and self-esteem. In her author's note, Oso shares her motivation to write the book -- which serves as a joyful affirmation of identity and heritage, honoring the beauty and diversity of Black hair.
Reviewer: | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2024

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