📖 Overview
Princess Hair celebrates different types of Black hair through vibrant illustrations and simple rhyming text. The book features diverse princesses with various natural hairstyles including puffs, dreadlocks, bantu knots, and braids.
The story moves from princess to princess, highlighting how each one's hair is unique and beautiful in its own way. The princesses engage in activities like swimming, dancing, and playing while showcasing their hairstyles.
The book addresses representation and self-acceptance through its depiction of Black hair as regal and worthy of celebration. Its message reinforces positive self-image for young readers while normalizing diverse beauty standards.
👀 Reviews
Readers appreciate how the book celebrates diverse hair types and textures through colorful illustrations and simple rhyming text. Parents and educators highlight its value in helping Black girls see themselves represented positively in literature.
What readers liked:
- Inclusive representation of different hairstyles
- Eye-catching, vibrant artwork
- Age-appropriate messaging about self-acceptance
- Educational potential for classroom discussions
What readers disliked:
- Some found the rhyming text basic
- A few noted it could include more hairstyles
- Limited appeal beyond the target age group (3-7)
Ratings:
Goodreads: 4.3/5 (1,200+ ratings)
Amazon: 4.8/5 (2,000+ ratings)
Sample review: "My 4-year-old daughter points to the illustrations saying 'that one looks like me!' It's opened up great conversations about embracing our natural hair." - Amazon reviewer
"Perfect for teaching young children about diversity in appearance and culture." - School librarian on Goodreads
📚 Similar books
Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry
A father helps his daughter style her curly hair while celebrating the beauty of natural Black hair.
Don't Touch My Hair by Sharee Miller A child sets boundaries about personal space while proudly wearing her natural hair in different styles.
Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut by Derrick Barnes A boy experiences the transformative power of a haircut at the barbershop.
I Love My Hair by Natasha Anastasia Tarpley A mother combs her daughter's hair each night while teaching her to appreciate her natural hair.
Bippity Bop Barbershop by Natasha Anastasia Tarpley A young boy's first trip to the barbershop becomes a celebration of Black hair culture and community.
Don't Touch My Hair by Sharee Miller A child sets boundaries about personal space while proudly wearing her natural hair in different styles.
Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut by Derrick Barnes A boy experiences the transformative power of a haircut at the barbershop.
I Love My Hair by Natasha Anastasia Tarpley A mother combs her daughter's hair each night while teaching her to appreciate her natural hair.
Bippity Bop Barbershop by Natasha Anastasia Tarpley A young boy's first trip to the barbershop becomes a celebration of Black hair culture and community.
🤔 Interesting facts
🎀 Author Sharee Miller was inspired to write this book when she noticed a lack of diversity in children's literature featuring Black girls and their various hairstyles
👑 The book celebrates over 12 different natural Black hair textures and styles, including puffs, braids, twists, and protective styles
💫 Miller's vibrant illustrations took inspiration from real-life princesses across Africa and the African diaspora, incorporating authentic royal elements
🌟 The book has become a valuable resource for teaching self-love and cultural pride in elementary school classrooms across the United States
✨ Princess Hair was featured in the 2018 "We Need Diverse Books" campaign, which promotes essential changes in the publishing industry to create literature that reflects all young people