A searchable database of books recommended by the CCBC.
More information about CCBC Choices book recommendations
My Powerful Hair
CCBC Review:
The Ojibwe narrator of this heartfelt picture book delves into the significance of hair in her community. When the story opens, the girl stands in front of a mirror, her smooth black hair cropped just below her ears. She is excited to grow it out, something her mom never did because “she was told hers was too wild.” The girl’s Nokomis, too, was denied long hair; her braids were forcibly cut at a boarding school. The text adopts a pattern as the girl marks milestones in her hair growth journey, savors new memories woven into her hair, and recalls traditional beliefs about the importance of hair. She notes the length of her hair during momentous events: the day her grandfather, Nimishoomis, teaches her to fish; the birth of her brother; the time she learns to make moccasins. According to her ancestors, “hair carries energies and power,” brings her “close to Mother Earth,” acts as medicine, and more. By the time Nimishoomis passes away, the girl’s hair is waist-length; she cuts it, sending “it into the spirit world with him[.]” Now it’s time again to grow it long; but this time, her mom will join her. “We’ll do it together.” An illuminating author’s note provides context for a moving story that embraces Native peoples and celebrates Indigenous beliefs. ©2023 Cooperative Children’s Book Center
Illustrated by Steph Littlebird
CCBC Age Recommendation: Ages 5-10
Age Range:
PreK-Early Elementary (Ages 4-7)
Grades 3-5 (Ages 8-10)
Format:
Picture book
Subjects:
Affirmation
Change
Families
Milestones
Ojibwe People
Patterned text/Repetition
Self-Esteem and Self-Worth
Diversity subject:
Indigenous
Publisher:
Abrams
Publish Year: 2023
Pages: 44
ISBN: 9781419759437
CCBC Location: Picture Book, Lindstrom