As the sun rises, casting a golden hue over the horizon, the day promises endless possibilities. It’s a day where the usual routines give way to the spontaneity of adventure, and nothing signifies this more than the untamed beauty of beach hair. In Ashley Woodfolk’s picture book, Beach Hair, we find an ode to this very symbol of freedom and joy.
Synopsis
The story unfolds with a multiracial family waking up to what they affectionately call “beach hair” – a wild, carefree state that beckons them to the sandy shores. Woodfolk, through her lyrical prose, captures the essence of a beach day, where every strand of hair tells a story of wind, waves, and the spirit of the sea.
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Beach Hair is more than just a story about a family’s trip to the beach; it’s a radiant love letter to family, community, and diversity. It’s about belonging and the shared joy that comes from letting go and embracing the natural beauty that surrounds us.
Illustrated by Nina Mata, the book brings to life the diverse tapestry of beachgoers, each with their unique hair texture and style. From twisty and twirly to flossy and glossy, Mata’s illustrations celebrate the diversity and individuality of each character. It’s a visual feast that complements Woodfolk’s narrative, creating a harmonious blend of word and image.
It’s the freedom to be oneself, to play, to laugh, and to connect with others in a place where the only rule is to let your hair run as wild and free as the sea itself.
As we close the book, we’re left with a sense of warmth and nostalgia for those lazy, hazy days of summer. We’re reminded of the laughter of children building sandcastles, the gentle lull of the waves, and the feeling of the sun on our skin. And above all, we’re reminded of the beauty of beach hair – a symbol of a day well spent, of memories made, and of the simple joys that life has to offer.
You won’t want to miss add this book to your summer reading, click here to purchase your copy.
About the Author and Illustrator
Ashley Woodfolk has loved reading and writing for as long as she can remember. As a full-time mom and author, she spends her days reading and writing from a sunny Brooklyn apartment where she lives with her cute husband, her cuter dog, and the cutest kid in the world. Her books include When You Were Everything, Nothing Burns as Bright as You, anthologies Blackout and Whiteout, and the Flyy Girls series. Beach Hair is her debut picture book.
Niña Mata is the #1 New York Times bestselling illustrator of I Promise by LeBron James, which was also nominated for an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literary Work. Niña grew up in Queens, New York, after her family emigrated from the Philippines when she was six years old. As a child, Niña spent a lot of time drawing. Her after-school activities usually involved watching Bob Ross and Reading Rainbow and looking for adventures in the library (which she still does). She currently lives in New Jersey with her husband, their daughter, and Tabi, the cat.
Until next time…Happy Parenting!
~ Momma Braga
*Please note that this book was provided in exchange of an honest review. All opinions expressed are our own.
