Frizzy

Winner of the Pura Belpré and Eisner awards, Frizzy is a moving graphic novel about family, love, care, and above all, the transformative power of self-acceptance.

Marlene loves three things: art, her cool aunt Ruby, and having fun with her best friend, Camilla. But for her mother, Paola, the only things she needs to keep in mind are growing up and studying.

Which means straightening her hair every weekend to make it more "presentable" and "nice" without having to worry about unruly strands. But Marlene hates going to the salon and doesn't understand why others don't consider her curls beautiful. What's more, she can't even play around to avoid messing up her hair! With a little crying, a hint of embarrassment, and much-needed help from Camilla and Aunt Ruby, she begins a journey where she will learn to value and be proud of her hair.

“A wonderful story about what it really means to have good hair... and a good heart.” — Varian Johnson, award-winning author of Twins .

"I desperately wish I had had a book like this when I was a child. Frizzy is inspiring, affirming, and a comfort to all children who love their hair." — Zoraida Córdova, bestselling author of The Divine Orchid Inheritance .

“Ortega expertly explores themes of colorism, generational trauma, and toxic beauty standards with authentic and moving dialogue, and Marlene is perfectly pitched, resulting in a rewarding and moving exploration of self-expression and self-love.” — Publishers Weekly