Salon Saturday - by Janelle Harper (Hardcover)

About the Book

When a little girl accompanies her family to the salon for the first time, she learns about self-expression and family connection within the salon's vibrant community as she discovers a world of natural hairstyles and beauty.

Book Synopsis

A picture book that celebrates the community built at the hair salon and the dynamic variety of Black hairstyles!

Today is the day!

A little girl's first trip to the salon is a rite of passage, but choosing a new hairstyle is feeling like an impossible task! There are so many styles to choose from--bobs, buns, coils, fros, and more. And according to Grandma, Momma, and Sissy, choosing the best one means thinking about ease, lifestyle, and personality...It's A LOT to think about!

When the options seem overwhelming, the young girl decides to search for what feels right today, and that there's always a future salon visit to try something new. While admiring the three loving women who have guided her through this big day, she finally sees it...her own kind of beautiful!

From coils and long locs to waves and braids, Salon Saturday offers a vibrant portrayal of Black hairstyles, cherishing them as both a ritual and an ever-evolving journey of self-expression.

Review Quotes

Praise for Salon Saturday by Janelle Harper and Charlot Kristensen:

"This book is perfect for a lapsit or storytime that focuses on littles finding beauty in themselves, community traditions, and connections to elders." --BCCB Reviews

"An upbeat introduction to a beloved rite of passage." --Kirkus Reviews

"A celebration of Black hair and the cultural tradition of crown care." --Booklist

"A showcase for the importance of a young Black girl's first trip to the hair salon... the book also celebrates community, family, and self-love. A joyful celebration of both individuality and community." --School Library Journal

Praise for My Block Looks Like by Janelle Harper and Frank Morrison:

*"The artist's careful attention to detail and the shifting visual perspectives in action scenes bring Harper's musical text to life. The narrator argues convincingly for the Bronx as 'the coolest place I've ever been, ' where 'dreams rise higher than the smog' and neighbors 'sparkle under streetlamps.' A culturally rich and beautifully illustrated child's-eye view of home." --Kirkus Reviews, starred review

*"Kinetic, portrait-filled art from Morrison (Breaking to the Beat!) reveals the neighborhood's sights (double Dutch, the Icee man, pickup games), vibrantly conveying the essence of the protagonist's home: "my city/ my hood/ my block. My home/ my village/ my family/ my friends/ my soul." --Publishers Weekly, starred review

* "Harper's block (she hails from the Bronx) is alive, aptly called "my soul," and supported by Morrison's images and warm colors, a refreshing invitation to visit or imagine this vivid, memorable place." --The Horn Book, starred review

"Dynamic details and an expansive sense of possibility . . . A caring depiction of urban life that will resonate with listeners who love the bustling energy and beauty of the place they call home." --BCCB Reviews

"Morrison paints vibrant spreads . . . The poetic text reads like a song and makes for a perfect read-aloud story . . . A positive and uplifting book that can be appreciated by all readers." --School Library Journal

About the Author

Janelle Harper is a Bronx native who proudly carries her New York accent anywhere she goes. She finds inspiration in city living and the diverse experiences of the African Diaspora. When she is not enjoying the hidden gems of the Bronx, she is traveling and exploring new cultures. She is a proud veteran public school teacher who comes from a long line of educators. She is passionate about creating stories that reflect the children in her Bronx classroom and neighborhood. When she's not thinking about her next book, Janelle can often be found in her dance studio, blasting music, yelling "five-six-seven-eight," and preparing elaborate student productions. Visit her online at JanelleHarperAuthor.com.

Charlot Kristensen is a Dublin based illustrator, designer, and author. As a Black artist she often depicts underrepresented characters in empowering ways to help change their narratives. Some of her most renowned clients include HuffPost, Google, Penguin Random House and the New York Times. Charlot's graphic novel, What We Don't Talk About, published by Avery Hill, is now out. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @Zolwia.