June Graphic Novel Pick of the Month

In this blog, Donna will highlight graphic novels that are great reads! Graphic Novels are intended for readers ages 8 and up.

graph·ic nov·el

a novel in comic-strip format

Frizzy by Claribel A. Ortega, Art by Rose Bousamra
(ages 8-12)
Library catalog
Winner of the Pura Belpré Award

Marlene is a middle-schooler that is well aware of what “good hair” is and that she does not have it. Every Sunday her mother drags her to the salon to get her curly hair straightened so she looks presentable. Middle school can be tough, but when you have classmates that tease you about your hair…well, it does a lot to Marlene’s self-esteem. This graphic novel brings to light the challenges that people with Black hair can face.

This graphic novel also discusses the importance of character over someone’s appearance. Marlene is very lucky to have her Tia Ruby to help her. Ruby guides Marlene in her journey in opening up to her mother about her feelings about her hair. Marlene’s best friend Camila also plays a part in helping Ruby accept her beautiful curls. An important message to all that there are many types of beauty and that everyone should embrace their differences.

Girl untangles prejudice, grief as she cares for her hair.

–Common Sense Media

An exquisite excavation of hair politics, family dynamics, and self-love.

–Kirkus Review

More books by Claribel A. Ortega:

Witchlings Series: