Sylvia Rodriquez is a Black and Latine artist. She is a graduate of Rhode Island School of Design with a degree in illustration. Inspired by everyday discussions and her own curly locks, she wanted to make a book that not only showed the beauty of ethnic hairstyles, but also where they come from.
Get to the roots of Black hair in this important and powerful picture book for the whole family! A brief explanation of the connection between Black hair and identity, empowerment, self-preservation, and individualism guides readers in the beginning. All of the amazing things that Black hair can be appear on the following pages. Black hair can be a connection to ancestors and the spiritual world, or a reflection of someone’s inner and outer world. Through its wide variety of styles and textures, Black hair can be an elaborate crown and a symbol of pride, power, and freedom. Black hair can still be taken away despite being an individual expression. The Crown Act of 2019 was created to help protect young Black girls and women from hair discrimination. Backmatter includes further explanations and eye-opening information. The illustrations draw the reader in and depict people of a wide range of skin colors. Truly a must-read for children and adults from any ethnic background! —Children's Literature