From the award-winning and bestselling author of We Are Water Protectors comes an empowering picture book about family history, self-expression, and reclaiming your identity
Our ancestors say our hair is our memories,
our source of strength and power,
a celebration of our lives.
Mom never had long hair—she was told it was too wild. Grandma couldn’t have long hair—hers was taken from her. But one young girl can’t wait to grow her hair long: for herself, for her family, for her connection to her culture and the Earth, and to honor the strength and resilience of those who came before her.
From Carole Lindstrom, author of the New York Times bestseller and Caldecott Medal winner We Are Water Protectors, and debut illustrator Steph Littlebird comes an empowering and healing celebration of hair and its significance across Indigenous cultures.
Praise
***STARRED REVIEW***The Horn Book Magazine
“The narrative’s powerful ending brings this story to a satisfying, hopeful conclusion. Debut illustrator Littlebird (a member of Oregon’s Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde) captures the closeness of the family and the strength and determination of the protagonist in bright colors set against woodgrain-like backgrounds.”
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***STARRED REVIEW***Booklist
“A thoughtful and enlightening addition to the picture book shelves and a worthy choice for units on Indigenous cultures.”
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***STARRED REVIEW***School Library Journal
"This is an emotionally searing story infused with important historical and cultural information on the significance of hair to Indigenous cultures."
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***STARRED REVIEW***Kirkus
"A deeply moving and inspiring celebration of long hair and its significance in Indigenous cultures."
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