FrizzyReview posted April 22, 2025.
First Second, 2022. 218 pages.
Review written February 26, 2023, from a library book.
Starred Review
2023 Pura Belpré Winner - Children's Author
2023 Capitol Choices Selection
This graphic novel is about the weight of expectations a middle school girl's Dominican family puts on her about her hair.
At the start, Marlene is grumpily suffering through a visit to the salon beyond the weekly one her mother makes her endure. They're headed to her cousin's quince. Her hair looks beautiful at the start of the party, but what with dancing and joking around with another cousin and getting hot and sweaty, her hair gets frizzy and poofs out in time for the pictures. All her family commiserates with her mother about Marlene's "bad hair."
Later, she tries some things on her own, which backfire. Kids at school put tape in her bushy hair, and she doesn't notice. When she lashes out at the bullies, she's the one who gets in trouble.
But yes, there's a moment of truth with a young aunt. She shows Marlene that beautiful hair doesn't have to be straight and shows her how to care for her curls. And backs her up when her mother finds out.
This book is lovely at pointing out the hypocrisy of adults who try to tell kids to be themselves -- but then make them go through agony to change their appearance to be more acceptable. The message is lovely and affirming, and the story is fun, with wonderful visuals giving it all the more punch.