J.D. and the hair show showdown

Gr 1--3--The third installment of the series finds the eight-year-old kid barber headed to Atlanta to appear as a young social media star in a hair show. While he is nervous, he is guided by his mother and a variety of other mentors. This joyful beginning chapter book showcases and enthusiastically celebrates Black hair and hair culture by focusing on barbers and hairdressers and the serious work and artistry they bring to their trade. The book is full of black-and-white illustrations, some full page and some partial page, that capture the jubilance of the characters. The only drawback is a simplistic plot. There is no real conflict or moment when readers believe things won't turn out well for J. D. However, the book is full of humor and realistic kid moments, even in the middle of what feels like wish fulfillment of social media stardom and amazing experiences. VERDICT An upbeat and funny beginning chapter book celebrating Black hair culture, this is a whimsical addition to most libraries.--Elizabeth Nicolai, Anchorage P.L., AK

In this third installment of the J.D. the Kid Barber series, J.D. takes his newfound viral fame on the road thanks to a sponsored invitation to Atlanta's Beauty Brothers Hair Expo. This bighearted series explores the business pursuit of a young Black barber and his impressive skill set. Into this illustrated chapter book Dillard weaves the language and tools of the trade--clippers, guards, and neck strips--and the process of a proper haircut: "I grabbed my clippers and put my 11/2 guard on and began to cut with the grain of the hair." Readers also see J.D. navigate many of the choices involved in maintaining a successful business: engaging with customers' preferences, developing an inventive and unique service style, and exploring strategies that allow for increased efficiency. On the family front, J.D. is reunited with his father; the two often speak, but since J.D.'s parents separated, visits between father and son have been less frequent. Readers will be eager to see if J.D. will make the most of an opportunity to showcase his skills on the big stage--and with one of his favorite kid rappers, Li'l Eazy Breezy, watching from the audience. The book, like the series thus far, understands that being a barber in a Black community can serve as a significant role of influence, and the book imparts some important lessons about following one's passions. A celebration of the entrepreneurial spirit with swag and style. (Fiction. 6-9) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.