First Impression: A wonderful and educational celebration of African Caribbean hair styles and individuality.
I am really excited to tell you about one of the best children’s books I have read in a long time. Before I do, I want to say thank you to my local public library for holding a copy of Daddy Do My Hair: Beth’s Twists. Now I get to tell you all about it.
In recent years, the appropriation of African Caribbean hair has been the subject of much debate. There have been news stories telling of teachers cutting the hair of Black girls who they determine are not wearing it in ‘acceptable’ style, discrimination cases have seen women bringing complaints before a judge because they have been told to ‘straighten’ their hair, and policies that outlaw cultural hairstyles such afros and braids still exist today.
With this in mind, I was excited to read and review Daddy Do My Hair: Beths Twists by Tolá Okogwu. With its bright red cover depicting a dad holding a mirror up to show his young daughter how her hair looks at the back, whilst her face beams a large smile, the book is inviting. Chante Timothy has really projected a fun, positive image that immediately speaks to young girls of color and tells them it is okay to have ‘big’ hair. Upon opening the book, there is a double page spread showing eight photographs of Beth sporting different hairstyles that include braid, buns, twists, and a combination of these techniques. These photographs overlay a further eight pictures that we assume to be more styles.
Written in rhyme, the bouncy little ditty tells the story of young Beth, who one Sunday evening asks her father if he would do her hair. It transpires that he does this every week, and that the following day is school picture day. The rhyming story continues as it describes the care dad takes with Beth’s hair and how he did not start out with the knowledge he now has.
I absolutely love this book for many reasons. Mum is very much in the picture, but the book focuses on the relationship between dad and daughter breaking the stereotype that mothers do hair, particularly girls’ hair. I also love how Beth got to choose her style and how we have seen her experiment with a wide range of cultural styles. Her hair is a form of expression, and she is wonderfully comfortable calling out a style. Further it teaches both African Caribbean and non-Black parents about the care that goes into looking after afro textured hair. We see dad spritz the hair and use a range of products.
Upon arriving at school, a variety of girls show off their assorted styles and appreciate each other for who they are. The book is a beautiful story that demonstrates acceptance and normalizes individuality.
Lastly, I appreciated how Okogwu included a little information page at the back of the book that recommended some products other caregivers may want to use. The book provides a really good basic education on hair care and is a celebration of kinky hair. I would be proud to recommend this book and buy it for friends and family with young children. Top marks for originality!
Quick Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ / G Rated
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