Brave - by Weshoyot Alvitre (Hardcover)

About the Book

A young Native American boy demonstrates bravery by proudly wearing his long hair in a braid to honor his ancestors' traditions.

Book Synopsis

An affirming, heartfelt picture book about a Native American boy proudly growing out his hair and basking in the knowledge that braids are beautiful.

Each morning, Dad brushes the knots from his son's long hair to braid it. The boy winces at the tugging, and at school he's teased for his braid. But he remembers the stories of how his father and grandpa were forced to cut their hair and forbidden from practicing their traditions when they were young, and how they fought to make it possible for him to wear his hair long. Although it can hurt, having long hair ultimately makes him feel brave and strong.

This powerful picture book by author-illustrator Weshoyot Alvitre examines the traumatic history of colonization and reclaims Native pride in long hair, delivering a tender father-son story that's perfect for fans of Hair Love and Love in the Library.

Review Quotes

Praise for Brave by Weshoyot Alvitre:

"A story of ancestors, love, loss, and self-acceptance wrapped in the meaning of long hair for men in Native American tradition." --School Library Journal

"A young boy has been growing out his hair in order to wear it in brave braids...Alvitre's (Tongva) illustrations feature bold lines and soft colors, showing how bravery can take on many forms...An excellent title for classrooms, libraries, and at-home reading." --Booklist

"[T]he celebration of a young boy who is deeply loved, valued, and respected, and how activism can come in many forms, including growing one's hair out, are powerful messages that are presented with thoughtful care" --The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books, recommended review

About the Author

Weshoyot Alvitre is a comic book artist and illustrator. She most recently worked as art director for the video game When Rivers Were Trails and as illustrator on the graphic novel Redrawing History with the Library Company of Philadelphia. Her books have received numerous awards and recognition, including the Eisner Award for Little Nemo: Dream Another Dream and the Prism Award for Hummingbird Boys in Moonshot Volume 2. She currently resides in Southern California with her husband and two children.