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“Themes of heritage, community, and identity intertwine in this love letter to braids that centers on a young disabled Afro-Latine girl. Sunday is hair day in Yadira’s house. Mami sections and braids Yadira’s hair, making intricate patterns and adding gold bands and cowrie shells, including one that hangs right on top of Yadira’s forehead. Mami tells her the shells invoke the power and magic of Oshún, a Yoruba goddess who was created to provide “what the people and the land needed most: love, kindness, and beauty.” …Complementing the art, Nelson’s text draws from deep cultural roots to enrich the everyday intimacy of wash day and fuel the sparks of community connection.”

– Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review

Oshún and Me: A Story of Love and Braids

Written by Adiba Nelson
Illustrated by Alleanna Harris
Published by Feiwel & Friends

It’s Sunday, and that means it’s Hair Day! As Mami weaves gold and cowrie shells into Yadira’s hair, she tells her the story of the goddess Oshún, showing Yadi how her Afro Latin heritage is lovingly tucked into each braid and shell.

The next day, Yadi arrives for her first day at a new school. She’s nervous about making friends, but with her beautiful braids, the click-clack of the cowrie shells, and a little guidance from Oshún, she finds she has everything she needs to be her best, most authentic self.

Look for the Spanish version, Ochún y Yo: Una Historia de Amor y Trenzas.

Primary ISBN: 9781250891150
Publication Date: January 2025
Available As: Hardcover, Audiobook, eBook
Picture Book, Age 03 or older

Community Represented: ,

Themes: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Setting: Unspecified

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: 3rd Generation

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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