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Frizzy

By Claribel A Ortega
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Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Marlene adores books, her cool Tía Ruby, and time with her best friend Camila. Yet her mother insists she focus on school and "growing up," which to Paola means straightening Marlene's curls each weekend to achieve "presentable," "good hair." Unhappy at the salon and confused why her natural curls aren't seen as beautiful, Marlene embarks on a heartfelt journey with the support of Camila and Tía Ruby to embrace and proudly wear her curly hair.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$2299
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This tender graphic novel is ideal for children and young readers exploring themes of identity, self-acceptance, and cultural beauty standards.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Frizzy is a delightful story about Marlene, a young girl who loves three things: books, her cool Tía Ruby, and hanging out with her best friend, Camila. However, according to her mother, Paola, the only thing she needs to concentrate on is school and "growing up." This translates to straightening her hair every weekend to achieve "presentable," "good hair."

Marlene despises spending time in the salon and struggles to understand why her curls are not deemed beautiful by those around her. With some mishaps, a touch of embarrassment, and the much-needed support of Camila and Tía Ruby, Marlene embarks on a journey of self-discovery. She learns to appreciate and confidently embrace her curly hair.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Winner of the 2023 Pura Belpré Award for Children's Text, the 2023 Eisner for Best Publication for Kids, and an October 2022 Indie Bestseller. A Junior Library Guild selection.

Kirkus praises it as "an exquisite excavation of hair politics, family dynamics, and self-love" with a cathartic and joyful narrative. The Horn Book highlights Ortega's portrayal of Marlene's emotional growth, complemented by Bousamra's expressive illustrations. Publishers Weekly notes the vivid colours and authentic dialogue examining colourism, generational trauma, and toxic beauty standards, culminating in a heartwarming exploration of self-expression and self-love.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781250259639

Publisher: Roaring Brook Press

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 18 October 2022

Country: United States

Imprint: First Second

Illustration: full-color illustrations throughout

Contributors:

  • Illustrated by Rose Bousamra

Audience: Children

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 13.0mm

Width: 140.0mm

Height: 204.0mm

Weight: 386g

Pages: 224

Collections

Children's Books Children’s & Teenage Non-Fiction Children’s, Teenage and Educational Claribel A. Ortega Graphic Novels Young Adult

About the Author

Claribel A. Ortega is a former reporter who writes middle grade and young adult books inspired by her Dominican heritage. Claribel has been featured on Buzzfeed, Good Morning America, and Deadline. Her books include the middle grade novels Ghost Squad and Witchlings, and her debut graphic novel Frizzy. claribelortega.com. Rose Bousamra is a freelance illustrator and comic creator born and based in Michigan. Frizzy is their first graphic novel, with their forthcoming solo debut graphic novel Gutless also being published with First Second. When they're not making or reading comics they love baking sweets and playing fantasy video games. rosemakesart.com

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