The Roots of My Hair - by Lou Lubie (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

A bold, funny, and insightful graphic novel about hair, heritage, and identity.

The Roots of My Hair follows the coming-of-age journey of Rose, a mixed-race woman from Réunion Island who struggles to love her kinky hair in a world that tells her to tame it. As she moves to mainland France to study and later to work--experimenting with different hair-straightening techniques, visiting beauty salons, and adopting social camouflage--Rose explores her Black identity by questioning the deeper issues behind her hair: race, beauty standards, colonialism, and belonging.

With humor, honesty, and expressive illustrations, Lou Lubie's new graphic novel blends original research and fiction, not only to reveal what lies beneath the hair-care industry but also to speak to anyone who has ever felt pressure to fit in. It is a powerful reminder that identity starts at the roots.

Winner of multiple French awards, now available in English for the first time.

Review Quotes

PUBLISHER BLURBS for THE ROOTS OF MY HAIR:

"What a wonderful coming-of-age and beyond story!! So many layers of self-discovery are illustrated here. It is loaded with important cultural exploration and affirmation and simultaneously provides a searing look at the ways in which women are regarded by society. I love that she finds her peace at the end. So many women (and men) will relate to this journey. Bravo." Deirdre Hollman, Sensitivity Reader for the book; Scholar and Founder/Creative Director of The Black Comics Collective

"Witty, educational, and warm, The Roots of My Hair is a must-read for teens learning to accept and love who they are. Its touching dialogue and rich illustrations show the beauty of Afro-textured hair and Black protective styles, all while informing the reader of the complex and fascinating history of Réunion Island, one of France's overseas departments. A true joy to read and to translate!" Makedah Hughes, Translator of the book (from French into English)

"Lou Lubie's The Roots of My Hair is a true privilege to read. Beyond her rich personal story of an intense childhood in a world that made her feel "other," this beautifully illustrated graphic novel offers a profound lesson in cultural understanding. It will teach you volumes about the care, history, and beauty of textured hair, all while pulling at your heartstrings." Ajsa Zdravkovic, Art Director, Helvetiq

"This book is a gem! Lou Lubie has the remarkable ability to immerse us in the realities of everyday discrimination through a subject that seems trivial -- yet is deeply fundamental: hair. With both compassion and radical clarity, this graphic novel is a breath of fresh air for those who face ordinary, invisible, and systemic racism, as well as a much-needed wake-up call for everyone else. And the drawings are just so beautiful!" Florent Gaillard, Sales Representative, Helvetiq

"This fascinating graphic novel takes us on a journey to Réunion Island and invites us into the heart of a family that could be our own. The social context is touching and the scientific aspect is fascinating. The Roots of My Hair is not a far-fetched story!" Aurélie Fourel (she/her), Project and Production Manager, Helvetiq

"Lou Lubie's Racines is a genius work. This incredible graphic novel takes the story of hair--the painful pressure to straighten it and the ultimate joy in embracing the natural, shortened nappy--and weaves it with brilliant scientific and historic context. It's a powerful, one-of-a-kind look at identity and self-acceptance. Seriously, I learned so much and had to recommend it instantly!" Hadi Barkat, CEO and Founder, Helvetiq

"I couldn't put this book down. I had to read it in one sitting. Even if the story is far from my own experience, it grabbed me instantly, awakening my curiosity and inviting me into a world I had never explored in such detail. Eye-opening, heartwarming, and deeply relatable, it's a book that stays with you long after the last page. Truly amazing." Eleni Karametaxas, Deputy General Manager, Helvetiq

"I think I read it in one sitting. I started reading the first few pages and couldn't put it down, and then I told my friends about it, saying they ABSOLUTELY had to read this book. I was very moved by the main character and by understanding how important hair is to a person's identity. As someone with straight hair that is very easy to maintain, I have enormous respect for women who spend hours caring for their hair. I really see the issue in a different light now. It really is a beautiful book 💕" Aurélie Odiet, Editorial Team, Helvetiq

About the Author

Lou Lubie is a French graphic novelist known for exploring emotions, identity, and social issues. Originally from Réunion Island, she gained recognition with A Fox in my Brain, a candid story about bipolar disorder. She has published twelve books and founded Forum Dessiné, a digital art platform that has brought together thousands of illustrators since 2008.