Haircut Day with Dad

PreS-Gr 2–A young Black boy with coiled dark-brown hair rides with his dad to the barbershop for their haircut day. At the barbershop, they decide what style to get: a short high fade as usual. When it’s their turn, father and son, with barber capes on their shoulders, take their places like kings on their thrones. The barbers turn into magicians, transforming their hair with clippers and tilts of the head. Soon, father and son are done, but not before paying—plus tip, which the young boy happily gets to do with his own money. This is a beautiful tribute to Black barbershop culture and the loving rites of Black manhood. Mikai has created a companion piece to Wash Day with Mama, a celebration of Black moms and daughters, with this entry on fathers and sons. Glorious digital illustrations highlight the cozy environs of a Black barbershop and what happens there, from reuniting with friends to a fresh new haircut. Those familiar with the barbershop experience will love seeing the story told in picture book form. Black boys and men of a variety of brown skin tones are featured throughout.