Hairstory

The rich African history of Black hair is spotlighted in Martins’ latest picture book. An acrostic poem spelling “hairstory” spotlights the beauty of Black hair and is interspersed with lengthier text highlighting the historical roots of Black hairstyles in Africa. Various African tribes and cultures are represented in stunning, softly textured illustrations that show the process of people styling their hair, just as the girl is continuing that tradition now. The illustrations create an otherworldly feel as readers are transported through history, lore, and the power of Black cultural experiences. After a glorious journey through Black hair history, the young girl is shown proudly looking through the mirror at her own unique hairstory. [...] African culture and history, vibrant illustrations, and the magic of Black hair combine for a beautifully styled tale readers will read again and again. -- Booklist *STARRED* Review * December 2025 *
A celebration of Black hair. A modern child getting her hair done explains that her braids are rooted in “centuries of meaning.” [...]They are stories “told from mother / to daughter,” “an ancient Road Map,” “Tangled Strands / coaxed free with an Afro comb.” Hair is art, beauty, identity, and more. [...] Uchendu’s distinctive art makes dramatic use of light and dark, pattern, and distinctive palettes, creating a visual feast for readers to pore over, with several breathtaking spreads. Flipping through the pages to gaze at the beautiful styles is itself an awe-inspiring, confidence-boosting, and emotional experience. [...] A book to return to often, to build knowledge and foster pride.  -- Kirkus * February 1, 2026 *
"Martins and Mukodiri Uchendu explore the cultural significance of hair across African hairstyling traditions. [...] An insightful, visually stunning exploration of African hair: 'each strand, a history. In every style, a story.' " -- Publishers Weekly * 11/17/2025 *
"This picture book opens with a wordless double-page spread set in a salon where a girl flips through a book of hairstyles while getting her hair done. The girl narrates: “MY HAIR IS HISTORY. Woven into patterns from thousands of years ago. Centuries of meaning are braided on my head.” Martins’s main text goes on to enumerate other positive attributes: “My hair is art,” “…identity,” “…roots,” etc. Close readers may notice a subtle acrostic spread out amidst the poetic text. Accompanying the verse-like narrative, paragraphs in smaller print provide information, poignantly showing longstanding connections between contemporary popular Black hairstyles and styles that began in Africa, as well as related African customs. [...] Uchendu’s gauzy digital art primarily features soft lines and pastel colors, which give the book a throwback feel fitting for a text designed to explain how the past shapes the present."  -- Horn Book Magazine *STARRED* Review * March / April 2026 *