This bright book takes a celebratory look at the beauty and distinctiveness of Black hair, inviting children to look at the hair on their heads with love and awe for its abilities. Author Sylvia Rodriguez, who also illustrated, uses a diasporic perspective to talk about the origins of Black hair on the African continent, as well as the variety of ways that Black people across the globe have styled their hair. The book also talks about the symbolism of Black hair and others' responses to it, and the ways that people have used their hair as symbols of resistance and pride in who they are. The illustrations are rich and vibrant, with perfect shading and smiling figures who clearly show pride in themselves and their distinctive hairstyles. I enjoyed the diversity of Black skin tones represented, such as the inclusion of someone with vitiligo, as well as the inclusion of women with headscarves. This would be a good book choice in helping with Black children's self-esteem, and anyone who is looking for further positive representation of Black hair.

The end notes about the inspiration behind the illustrations and different Black hairstyles around the world were very good and provide some necessary context. I also liked the affirming statements at the end about how no one should ever feel pressured into changing the way that their hair looks and that it is beautiful the way that it is. I think the book could benefit from a bibliography with books for further reading, as well as reference notes. The 2022 CROWN Act is mentioned, but there aren't any further notes about the history or significance of the Act for children. As this is a very recent piece of legislation, one that young readers might have heard about themselves, the addition of said notes would add more weight to the book's overall message.

The book begins with a statement about how no other ethnic group has had their hair texture so intertwined with their identity. This is a compelling and important note, one that rings true because Black hair's texture and chemical composition is unlike that of any other group's, and is important for young Black children to take pride in and learn about. However, the terminology here is a bit off; "racial group" would have been a better word choice. There are numerous Black ethnicities across the diaspora such as Black Americans, Jamaicans, Hausa, Yoruba and so on, all of whom are actually mentioned in the book. And each of these ethnicities has their own history of hairstyles shaped by their location, cultures and experiences. As a side note, I notice that the author herself is Afro-Latina, but I didn't see any specific references to Black hairstyle practices within the Afro-Latino experience. This would have also been a good addition to the diasporic perspective.

I also would have liked to see more inclusion of Black Americans in happy poses with their hair., just being. The only overt references to the Black American experience are depicted during slavery and the Civil Rights movement. These are integral parts to our history, to be sure, but they're not the entirety of them. In both instances, the individuals are depicted in a state of tension and struggle, which is accurate given the circumstances. This is in contrast to the other figures/locations within the diaspora, who are often shown smiling and celebrating their hair. In the illustrations representing enslavement, for example, part of which also graces the cover, none of the individuals' faces are shown in detail. This is the only time that this happens throughout the book, which is a curious choice, as it depersonalizes those individuals. To be clear, I don't believe that this was intentional, but it is something that I picked up on.


Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Charlesbridge Publishing, for this DRC in exchange for a fair and honest review. The thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.

Black Hair Can: The Roots of Our Roots (Hardcover)
by Sylvia Rodriguez
a Black History month featured book. This book not only shows anachronism of hair style and culture. For many African cultures hair style is a spiritual representation. The book shows through poetic descriptions the pride of culture, and through small blurbs at the end of the book the source and meaning of many hair styles.

Black Hair Can beautifully celebrates the rich history and cultural significance of Black hair, tracing styles from African roots to today’s diverse looks like Afros, cornrows, and Fulani braids. Sylvia Rodriguez’s bold, colorful illustrations highlight the creativity and pride behind these styles, while the included hairstyle guide connects readers to this vibrant cultural heritage. It’s an empowering and joyful read that honors identity and tradition for kids and families alike

This is a beautiful, powerful children’s book that I genuinely enjoyed—and learned from as an adult. While it’s written for younger readers, it carries an incredible amount of cultural depth, history, and pride that resonates far beyond childhood.

One of the standout things for me was how the book introduces and explains the CROWN Act—something I, embarrassingly, didn’t know much about before reading. Rodriguez breaks it down in a way that’s informative and compelling, highlighting why it’s needed and how it impacts people today. As someone who’s personally experienced that moment of hesitation before wearing a natural hairstyle to work—wondering if it’s “acceptable”—this book hit home. Though I’ve always loved my Black hair and worn it proudly, the deeper cultural context and empowerment this book provides is something I wish I had growing up.

The book is a celebration of Black hair in all its forms, showing young readers (and reminding adults) that it’s not just hair—it’s history, identity, and pride. The language and tone are empowering throughout, making it a must-read for every child, regardless of gender.

That said, I do think some of the language might be a bit advanced for the younger readers it’s aimed at. A few words and phrases might need explanation, especially for younger kids reading on their own. But even with that, the illustrations and visuals do so much to carry the message across clearly and beautifully.

Speaking of the artwork—wow. The illustrations are absolutely stunning. From the accurate shades of brown to the detail in the hairstyles, it’s visually rich and culturally respectful. I loved seeing styles from Yoruba culture and even the use of familiar lingo—like calling locs “dada,” which brought back memories of home for me.

I especially appreciated how the book touches on the historical journey of Black hair, including its significance during slavery. It’s educational without being overwhelming, offering young readers a meaningful introduction to identity, pride, and resilience.

This is one of those books I believe should be in every child’s library. I’ll definitely be getting copies for my younger siblings and gifting it to friends with kids—it’s that special. And yes, I’ll be keeping a copy in my own collection, too. It’s a story I’ll return to again and again, both for the message and the art.

Black Hair Can is more than just a book—it’s a love letter to Black hair, and I absolutely adored it.

This is a lovely poem on what black hair can be. The illustrations are masterful and engaging. In the end, the book discusses the Crown Act, why it’s needed and what it does. The author also goes through the different hairstyles that are illustrated within the pages and where they came from. This was a fantastic book for those who know nothing about black hair and why this is an important topic.

What a wonderful, beautiful, and profoundly thoughtful book. It isn’t just a cute story for children to skim on their own; it’s an open window for guided conversation, inviting readers of all ages to explore what Black hair represents and all it can signify. The illustrations are vivid and layered, gorgeous without being sugar‑coated offering depth and nuance that reward a closer look.

The art is beautiful and definitely tells a story. I am struggling to figure out how to best incorporate it into my community: I think the vocabulary might be too advanced for children under 6, but I do think that it would be good for children aged 8-12. Currently, I am thinking that this book could find a home for personhood studies, as well as books on representation and history-perhaps some guidance on best uses would be advisable because it is a gorgeous and thought-provoking book.

A picture book ode to black hair. An important text to ensure that all readers can see themselves in texts and see the importance of themselves. This book will encourage readers to be proud of themselves. For children ages 3-7. A good pick for classroom and school libraries.

Let's start by noting that I am Australian and of European descent, so please take my opinion lightly. Most of the book is a list of things "BLACK HAIR CAN", with each page being a (beautifully drawn) illustration and some brief text. It may get a bit repetitive, although young children do love a repetition. Then there is a page about a Dove beauty campaign, and a couple of very small print pages giving history of hair in different parts of Africa.

This book would need reading and discussing carefully with a child. Unlike many picture books it's not just cute and with a hidden message, it's overt and political. It's also a very attractive book, addressing an important topic, and could be a good introduction to these topics. It covers such a broad range, from status, to politics, slavery and individualism. I wouldn't buy this as a gift, but i would consider buying it for my own children if we were African American.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an E-Arc in exchange for an honest review.

From the Igbo people of Africa's ornate, decorative hairstyles to the cornrow maps of enslaved people in the American South, the journey of Black hair is a fascinating one. Telling of rich history, beauty, and resilience, Black Hair Can is a beautiful and informative testament to just that. The illustrations are beautiful and moving, and I learned so much about where different styles originated.

This will make a great addition to any library or child's growing bookshelf. Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review.

This is a beautiful, powerful, informative book about the culture and history of African American hairstyles and how one's identity is closely connected to one's hair in the Black community. A celebration of history, beauty, and design, this book is perfect for all ages and represents children with various beliefs, and even a child who has albinism. I love this book and highly recommend it for schools and libraries. I hope it wins all the awards!