Sulwe

Nyong’O, L., & Harrison, V. (2019). Sulwe (Illustrated ed.). Simon & Schuster Books for Young

Readers.

Summary:

Sulwe is an awakening fable about a young girl who is unhappy about her looks. Sulwe tried to change the way she looked by erasing some of her dark skin, wearing makeup, eating light foods, and praying for lighter skin. With an encounter with a shooting star, Sulwe is able to understand that there is beauty in every shade and learns to appreciate her own beauty.

Nyong’O and Harrison incorporated vivid text and vibrant illustrations with bright colors that captivated the reader’s attention. The structure and sequence of this fable is easy to follow and facilitates the reader’s comprehension. This story has a great sense of imagination and exposes several themes such as acceptance, compassion, friendship, and self-esteem. This book offers several topics that world wide audiences can relate to. It is an excellent tool to expose children to the real meaning of beauty.

Similar books:

• You Matter by Christian Robinson (Author, Illustrator)

• The Absolute Value of Mike by Kathryn Erskine (Author)

• Addie on the Side by James Howe

From the same illustrator:

• Hair Love

• Festival of Colors

• Cece Loves Science

Book Read Aloud:

Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor