FROS, FADES, AND BRAIDS

Embark on an informative tour through the history of African American dos.

In easily digestible vignettes, Qualls offers a comprehensive explanation of Black hair textures and styles as well as products and implements that straighten, expand, and chemically treat it. He includes entertaining biographical blurbs on key historical figures such as Madam C.J. Walker, the first American woman to become a self-made millionaire; her competitor and former boss, Annie Turnbo Malone; and Garrett Augustus Morgan, who devised a hair-straightening formula (and also invented the three-way traffic light and the gas mask), all of whom advanced technologies still prevalent today. As conversational as a stylist chatting with a client, this work of nonfiction has narrative flair and pizzazz. But Qualls also addresses difficult topics including the phrase good hair (the problematic idea that straight and loose hair is superior to tighter, curlier hair), which began with the enslavement of Black people. This honest book will provide much-needed education and guidance for readers who don’t have Afro-textured hair while affirming those who do. Qualls’ bold, stylized illustrations employ a somewhat limited palette, creating a retro vibe reminiscent of many of the eras featured.

Vivid, empowering, and culturally rich.