Barnes, D. (2017). Crown: Ode to a Fresh Cut. Agate Bolden.
Summary
Have you ever wondered what it was like inside a barber shop? Or what the client was feeling after a fresh new haircut? Wonder no more when you read Crown: Ode to a Fresh Cut. This ode takes readers on a journey through the emotional "high" felt by a boy with a new hairdo. He observes those around him, others getting their hair done, and explains how he's treated like royalty when he gets in the chair. He knows he will be the envy of all once he has that new do, and that girls will not resist him. Beautifully illustrated and wonderfully written, Crown is both entertaining and enlightening by opening the eyes to the world of an African-American barber shop.
A Teacher's Perspective
I highly recommend reading the author's note that accompanies this wonderful picture book. Barnes explains that other than church, the barber shop is the only place that young African-American boys are treated like they are important, and references his own childhood experience in the 6th grade; his Thursday $8 haircut routine apparently kept his girlfriend attracted to his irresistible style.
This book gives readers a peek into a culture they may not be familiar with. The wonderful illustrations show the pride the narrator takes in his appearance, and celebrates the beauty of the cultural experience. I highly recommend this for teachers of younger readers who may not have the world experience to understand cultures other than their own.
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Here is a read-aloud by someone similar to the age of the narrator in the book. It would be nice to use in class while students read along.
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