Saturday morning at the 'Shop

In his bustling picture book debut, Jones pays nuanced homage to barbershops through the eyes of one child "geeked to go spend/ the day at the 'Shop." On a Saturday morning, the title's young narrator, a Black child wearing a ball cap, is dropped off as Mom heads to work. The protagonist, who always arrives first after the barbers, soaks up the lively atmosphere. Across the day, reiterative phrases describe how "the 'Shop is our" sound booth, gallery, sports show, comedy club, playground, classroom, and more: "The 'Shop is our mini-mart// Two dollars will get you right;/ five dollars will have you full." And through it all, the barbershop is "our studio.// Hair is the canvas/ clippers are the brush,/ creating walking pieces of art." Sun-stroked digital illustrations by Daley (Granny's Kitchen) vividly capture the ambiance as "Dads and grandpas,/ neighbors and friends," portrayed with brown skin, gather together, in one scene sitting in front of luminaries including Malcolm X, Muhammad Ali, and more. It's an affectionate portrayal of both an intergenerational tradition and a crucial community cornerstone. Creators' notes conclude. Ages 4--8. Author's agent: Savannah Brooks, KT Literary. Illustrator's agent: Christy Ewers, CAT Agency. (Jan.)

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. (author's note and illustrator's notes)(Picture book. 4--8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.