The Good Hair Day

Noah wants many things for his upcoming birthday, but his greatest desire is "long, beautiful, wavy hair." He doesn't ask if he can grow his hair out, however--possibly because "some people say mean things about men with long hair," or maybe because he doesn't see long hair represented on many boys. Fluid digital illustrations by Yang focus on domestic and community scenes--showing the tender way Noah braids his sister's hair and strokes his mother's--while Trimmer's narrative spotlights through longing internality Noah's understanding of what he wants alongside the idea that he "just didn't think he was allowed to ask for it." Following a difficult haircut, a birthday gift from an observant loved one conveys the indescribable impact of being seen and supported. Noah and his family are portrayed with brown and tan skin; Noah's mother uses a wheelchair. Conversation starters conclude. Ages 4-8. (May)

PreS-Gr 3--When it comes to certain desired birthday presents, Noah is assertive and communicative. But regarding his actual birthday wish (a head of long, wavy hair), he is less sure of how to verbalize his needs. Noah imagines what life would look like with the coif he pines for: An undulating mane that could unlock adventures, magic, and joy. Will Noah find the words to tell his family what he truly longs for? Yang depicts Noah's imagined curls roaming around and through pages, moving as if though underwater, giving Noah's indigo and jewel-toned daydreams a tranquil, yet majestic quality. Noah's facial expression on the last page, one of pure joy and self-realization, is another artistic triumph. An affirming, supportive community sets The Good Hair Day apart from the growing number of picture books regarding gender presentation and expression. Whereas other protagonists have been met with some form of cruelty and ignorance from their fictional caregivers and classmates, Noah is presented only with understanding and tenderness. With black hair and tan skin like most of his family, Noah has an inner dialogue regarding his prospective tresses, where he vaguely remembers an unkind statement said about men with long hair; this is by far the harshest scenario presented and very realistic. The back matter provides gentle and clear conversation starters which will prove indispensable for educators and families seeking vocabulary to use when discussing gender, identity, and self-expression. VERDICT A necessary and vital purchase for all collections that serve elementary school communities.--Ingrid Conley-Abrams