Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut

Bibliography

Barnes, D. (2017). Crown: An ode to the fresh cut. Scholastic Inc.

ISBN: 978-1-338-61970-6

Plot Summary

This book, a poem actually,  is seen through the eyes of a young black boy. He surveys the people around him getting their haircut in a barber shop. He imagines their worth just by looking at their hair. He imagines his worth after his hair is finished being cut. He sees himself differently, he has gained confidence. 

Critical Analysis

Barnes’ narrative poem gives so much depth and meaning to his main character. A young boy walking into a barber shop knowing that when he leaves he will be transformed. The young boy provides narratives of the people around him. He bases their unimaginable existences solely on their haircuts. He understands power, the life changing power of a fresh haircut. He speaks its power into existence, imagining the reactions of those around him. Barnes brings to life such an event for those who cannot understand the power of a “dope” haircut.

Gordon James provides extraordinary oil painting illustrations which highlight every word on every page. The depth and beauty the illustrations provide bring life and wonder to an otherwise  everyday, ordinary occasion. It’s the illustrations combined with Barnes’ narrative create an experience for readers that is felt deep within.

Review Excerpts

The awards for this book are numerous. The list of awards can be found on Derrick Barnes’ website.

From Publisher’s Weekly:

“Pride, confidence, and joy radiate from the pages, both in the black and brown faces of men, women, boys, and girls featured in James’s majestic paintings, and in writing that celebrates human worth with every syllable.”

From Kirkus:

"One of the best reads for young black boys in years, it should be in every library, media

center, and, yes, barbershop.”

From Common Sense Media:

“With striking, oil-based paintings by Gordon C. James that showcase different hairstyles and personalities, it celebrates black barbershop culture and the transformative effects of a "fresh cut."”

Connections

Gather other books about hair, such as:

• Florence Frizzball by Claire Freedman

• I love my Hair! by Natasha Anastasia Tarpley

• Rapunzel: Based on the Original Story by the Brothers Grimm by Sarah Gibb

Discuss how our hair is as individual as we are. Everyone has hair but not everyone’s hair

is the same, no two shades, or textures, or styles. Discuss how it makes you feel to have

your hair styled, or going someplace to have your hair cut. 

Gather books about self-confidence, such as:

• A Color of His Own by Leo Lionni

• Elmer by David McKee

Discuss how we see ourselves, how we see ourselves in the mirror. Discuss how other people

may not see us the same way. Our differences make us beautiful. Our differences make us

unique. The people who love us will always see the beauty in us.