SATURDAY MORNING AT THE 'SHOP

Mom’s got to work this Saturday, so she drops the young narrator off at the neighborhood barbershop.

The child takes in all that this hallowed institution of Black American identity has to offer. Making strong use of light and color, digitally rendered illustrations reminiscent of vibrant oil paints depict people with a wide array of brown complexions at the ’Shop. Artwork bedecks the walls, a basketball game plays on the elevated TVs, people bob their heads to the music, and laughter fills the air. Each Saturday morning, the ’Shop serves a variety of purposes: It’s a classroom focused on Black leadership, a place to hear “the latest hip-hop gossip,” a store where hungry kids can find tasty snacks, and a playground where they can race around—“until Mr. Charles tells us to settle down.” Young and old, family and friends, gather at the barbershop to “hear the wisdom, / feel the joy, / and share the love.” Eventually our young narrator removes his cap and takes his turn in the chair, allowing a seasoned barber the opportunity to create another “walking [piece] of art.” This week’s visit ends with an image of mother and son reunited as they leave Mr. Charles’ shop, with enthusiastic waves goodbye and smiles on every face. Relying on repetition and alliteration, Jones has crafted a bouncy storytime tale and a tribute to the power of community.

A read-aloud as sharp and stylish as a fresh cut.