Winner of the Pura Belpré Award for Children's Text Winner of the Eisner for Best Publication for Kids Indie Bestseller New York Times-bestselling author Claribel A. Ortega and star debut artist Rose Bousamra's Frizzy is about Marlene, a young Dominican girl whose greatest enemy is the hair salon! Through her struggles and triumphs, this heartwarming and gorgeous middle-grade graphic novel shows the radical power of accepting yourself as you are, frizzy curls and all. Marlene loves three things: books, her cool Tía Ruby and hanging out with her best friend Camila. But according to her mother, Paola, the only thing she needs to focus on is school and "growing up." That means straightening her hair every weekend so she could have "presentable", "good hair". But Marlene hates being in the salon and doesn't understand why her curls are not considered pretty by those around her. With a few hiccups, a dash of embarrassment, and the much-needed help of Camila and Tia Ruby—she slowly starts a journey to learn to appreciate and proudly wear her curly hair.

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About the author
Claribel A. Ortega
Author
American author
Frizzy
by Claribel A. Ortega
Books Like Frizzy
If you're looking for books similar to Frizzy, here are some recommendations based on themes, tone, and narrative style.
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A graphic novel about a young African American boy navigating a predominantly white private school. Like Frizzy, it explores themes of identity, self-acceptance, and cultural expectations. The protagonist learns to embrace his unique background and identity.
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A poetic memoir about growing up as an African American girl, exploring identity and self-discovery. The book shares Frizzy's themes of cultural heritage and personal empowerment. Woodson's narrative celebrates individual uniqueness and the journey of self-acceptance.
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A story about a young immigrant girl navigating cultural challenges and family expectations. Similar to Frizzy, it explores themes of identity and resilience. The protagonist learns to find her voice and support her family while maintaining her individuality.
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A powerful novel about a young African American girl navigating racism and family challenges. Like Frizzy, it explores themes of identity, resilience, and self-worth. The protagonist learns to find strength and dignity in the face of adversity.
Hair Love
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A heartwarming picture book about a father helping his daughter embrace her natural hair. The story celebrates self-love and family support, similar to Marlene's journey of hair acceptance. It explores cultural identity and personal confidence through a young girl's relationship with her hair.
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A story about a young Latina navigating family expectations and personal growth. The book shares Frizzy's themes of cultural identity and self-discovery. Merci learns to understand herself and her family while developing confidence and independence.
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A powerful story about a young Latina girl facing significant life changes and personal growth. The book shares Frizzy's themes of cultural identity and resilience. Esperanza learns to adapt, find strength, and embrace her heritage.
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A middle-grade novel about a young Latina finding her voice through music and self-expression. Like Frizzy, it explores a young girl's journey of embracing her true self against societal expectations. The protagonist learns to celebrate her unique identity and cultural background.
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A powerful middle-grade novel about a young boy finding his place in the world. While different in specific theme, it shares Frizzy's exploration of self-acceptance and personal growth. The protagonist learns to overcome challenges and embrace his true self.
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A novel about a young Syrian girl immigrating to the United States and finding her place. Similar to Frizzy, it explores themes of cultural identity and self-acceptance. The protagonist learns to navigate new experiences while staying true to herself.
Save Me a Seat
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A novel about two very different boys finding friendship and understanding. While different in specific theme, it shares Frizzy's exploration of identity and self-acceptance. The protagonists learn to overcome cultural misunderstandings and support each other.
Juliet Takes a Breath
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A coming-of-age story about a young Latina discovering herself and her identity. The protagonist navigates personal growth, family expectations, and self-acceptance, echoing themes of cultural identity found in Frizzy. The book explores empowerment and learning to love oneself authentically.
Amina's Voice
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A story about a young Muslim American girl finding her voice and identity. Like Frizzy, it explores themes of cultural expectations and personal growth. Amina learns to embrace her unique background and develop confidence.
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