Salon Saturday -- Janelle Harper, Hardcover

A picture book that celebrates the community built at the hair salon and the dynamic variety of natural hairstyles!

Today is the day!

A little girl's first trip to the salon is a rite of passage, but choosing a new hairstyle is feeling like an impossible task! There are so many styles to choose from--bobs, buns, coils, fros, and more. And according to Grandma, Momma, and Sissy, choosing the best one means thinking about ease, lifestyle, and personality...It's A LOT to think about!

When the options seem overwhelming, the young girl decides to search for what feels right today, and that there's always a future salon visit to try something new. While admiring the three loving women who have guided her through this big day, she finally sees it...her own kind of beautiful!

From coils and long locs to waves and braids, Salon Saturday offers a vibrant portrayal of Black hairstyles, cherishing them as both a ritual and an ever-evolving journey of self-expression.

Author: Janelle Harper
Publisher: Viking Books for Young Readers
Published: 09/23/2025
Pages: 32
Binding Type: Hardcover
ISBN: 9780593526330
Audience: Ages 4-8

Review Citation(s):
Bulletin of Ctr for Child Bks 07/01/2025

About the Author
Janelle Harper is a Bronx native who proudly carries her New York accent anywhere she goes. She finds inspiration in city living and the diverse experiences of the African Diaspora. When she is not enjoying the hidden gems of the Bronx, she is traveling and exploring new cultures. She is a proud veteran public school teacher who comes from a long line of educators. She is passionate about creating stories that reflect the children in her Bronx classroom and neighborhood. When she's not thinking about her next book, Janelle can often be found in her dance studio, blasting music, yelling "five-six-seven-eight," and preparing elaborate student productions. Visit her online at JanelleHarperAuthor.com.

Charlot Kristensen is a Dublin based illustrator, designer, and author. As a Black artist she often depicts underrepresented characters in empowering ways to help change their narratives. Some of her most renowned clients include HuffPost, Google, Penguin Random House and the New York Times. Charlot's graphic novel, What We Don't Talk About, published by Avery Hill, is now out. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @Zolwia.