Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

Where to Read

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Libby

Our reviews and ratings are 100% unbiased, but as an Amazon Associate, Screenwise earns an affiliate fee if you buy a book or game by clicking one of our links. We don't get any credit if you just Google it instead :)

Screenwise Verdict

This is one of those books that does exactly what it sets out to do—and does it beautifully. Matthew A. Cherry (yes, the former NFL player turned Oscar-winning filmmaker) created something genuinely needed: a joyful, tender story about a Black dad and his daughter that centers natural hair without making it a problem to solve.

Zuri loves her hair. Full stop. It's not a journey to self-acceptance; she's already there. The journey is Dad's, as he learns to work with coils and curls for a special occasion. That role reversal—where the parent is the learner—is refreshing and real.

The 4.9 Amazon rating and glowing parent reviews aren't hype. This book fills a gap and does it with warmth, humor, and gorgeous art. If you have a young child, especially a Black child learning to love their natural texture, this belongs on your shelf. And if you're building a classroom library that actually reflects your students, this is essential.

It's a picture book, so don't expect a complex plot. But for what it is? Nearly flawless.

Age Fit

Perfect for preschool through early elementary (ages 3-8), especially for Black children who will see themselves reflected authentically. The self-esteem message and representation make it valuable for family libraries and classrooms.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

98

A tender father-daughter story that models love, patience, and perseverance. Dad steps up to learn a new skill for his daughter, Zuri radiates self-confidence and joy in her natural hair, and the emotional tone is warm and affirming throughout. Celebrates Black family dynamics in a positive, authentic way without trauma or hardship.

Imaginative

75

The book personifies Zuri's hair as having 'a mind of its own' that 'kinks, coils, and curls every which way,' which is playful and creative. Vashti Harrison's illustrations are vibrant and expressive. However, it's a straightforward narrative picture book rather than one that invites open-ended play or world-building. Solid creativity within its format.

Safe

100

Zero safety concerns. No violence, scary content, or inappropriate material. It's a gentle, affirming picture book about doing hair for a special occasion. Amazon rating of 4.9/5 and universally positive parent reviews confirm this is completely safe content for young children.

Enriching

92

Exceptional representation for Black children seeing their hair celebrated and their family dynamics reflected. Builds self-esteem and self-respect (explicitly listed in genres). Shows dads as capable, loving caregivers. Normalizes natural hair textures and the learning curve that comes with care. The tie-in to an Academy Award-winning short film adds cultural significance. Genuinely meaningful for its target audience.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Shows a Black father as tender, capable, and fully engaged—representation that's still too rare in children's books
Zuri's confidence in her natural hair is infectious and affirming for kids with similar textures
The learning curve is real: Dad doesn't magically know everything, he figures it out because he loves his daughter
Gorgeous illustrations by Vashti Harrison bring warmth and personality to every page
Tied to the Oscar-winning animated short, so kids can experience both formats

⚠

What to Watch For

Most impactful for Black children and families, though the father-daughter bond is universal
It's a picture book, so it's a quick read—great for bedtime but not a long story experience

Conversation Starters

"What makes Zuri's hair special? What do you love about your own hair?"
"Why do you think Daddy wanted to learn how to do Zuri's hair?"
"Have you ever had to learn something new that was harder than you expected? How did you keep trying?"
"What do you think the special occasion was?"

Ask Anything

Get a personalized guide on any topic

Hair Love Matthew A. Cherry