"I love my hair and one day I will be brave enough to say so!"

Meet Wanda, with her beautiful hair. She is unhappy because the boys on the bus tease her.

But Grandmother Makhulu has the answer...Through Makhulu's stories and hair secrets, Wanda realises that her hair is her crown - an important part of her and something to be very proud of.

This is a heartwarming, inspiring story about beauty and identity - and being proud of who you are.

About the Author

Sihle Nontshokweni teaches at the University of Pretoria and is working on a Ph.D. alongside her writing for children. She has also studied in China, gaining a Master's degree at Beijing University. She has a deep interest in how racialised contexts and situations affect personal identity and aspirations, particularly with children. Wanda was inspired by her own and her co-author's high school experiences. She has recently completed a second book, Fly Everyone.

Mathabo Tlali and Sihle went to high school together. Mathabo's own story is one of aspiration, determination and empowerment. Having dropped out of her university course, she is now back on track for a degree in drama and sociology.

Chantelle and Bergen Thorne are South-Africa based illustrators with an international clientele.

Reviews

"Heartwarming and uplifting, with themes of self-confidence and identity."

* The Bookseller *

"A beautiful book which will help anyone who feels pressurised about themselves and their identity."

-- Sue Martin * The Book Monitor *

"Vibrant and moving picture book story for EYFS and KS1 children. Tackling difficult subject matter with sensitivity, such as anti-bullying, self-confidence and heritage, this is a valuable text to read and discuss in PSHE lessons."

-- Tom Tolkien * School Reading List *

"This heartfelt look at how society can drain the positivity instilled by a loving family, is a powerful reminder that everyone has the right to feel confident to celebrate their culture and that we should all share in that celebration rather than attempt to undermine it. The broad themes of the story - self belief and kindness, with its compelling, vibrant illustrations, make this a book to share with primary classes wherever they are."

* Red Reading Hub *

"A powerful picture book by Sihle Nontshokweni and Mathabo Tlali about overcoming bullying through self-confidence, family love...and hair-styling."

-- Lucy Chambers * Bookish *

"A heart-warming story about learning to love who you are, how you look, and where you come from, despite others' opinions."

* BookTrust (Book of the Day) *

"This book is about identity and beauty, celebrating how cultural pride is learned and passed on over generations."

* Primary Times *

"This book is uplifting and an absolute gem."

* We Read and Spark, via Instagram *

"This book celebrates cultural and family pride and encourages any young reader who might feel self conscious about their appearance to be proud of who they are. Set in South Africa with a glossary of Xhosa words used in the story, it will make a good contribution to the class or school library, to be shared by children from 5 upwards."

* The English Association Reviews *

"A touching picture book about a little girl made miserable by teasing about her hair. She needs her grandmother's "magical mist" of olive oil to make it into a triumphant crown. Vivid, double-page pictures by Chantelle and Burgen Thorne make this a treat."

* The New Statesman - Best Children's Books of 2022 *



Book Information
ISBN 9781913074470
Author Sihle Nontshokweni
Format Hardback
Page Count 32
Imprint Otter-Barry Books Ltd
Publisher Otter-Barry Books Ltd