J.D. lives with his mom, grandparents, and older sister and younger brother and it's the night before he starts third grade. According to family tradition, he gets his first haircut tonight and he desperately wants it to be a cool one, although he knows the odds aren't good, especially when his mom cuts it. But he never thought it would be so bad! After two weeks of utter humiliation at school, church, and home and a failed attempt to straighten his hair, he bites the bullet, gets his mom's clippers, and fixes his haircut himself (after practicing on his little brother first!) And... he's good. Really good.
In fact, with his artistic talent and a spare set of clippers he's good enough to get other kids interested and start making some money. This is important, because there's not a lot of money in his crowded house. Unlike his best friend Jordan, he doesn't have the latest clothes, video games, or toys. He doesn't even have a Marvel characters lunch box, just a plain brown bag. It turns out he can make quite a bit of money since there aren't many barbering choices in town - it's either your parents or Mr. Henry, the traditional (and boring) family barbershop in town.
And Mr. Henry isn't happy. When he gets J.D. into trouble, and then shuts him down, J.D. has to figure out a plan to keep his business going, keep the money coming in, and spread cool haircuts to all his friends. What about a competition? But what will happen if J.D. loses - or, possibly even worse - wins?
Black and white illustrations are a perfect fit with this peppy narrative, showing a predominantly Black community in a small southern town, and a wide range of families. The theme of family and church is a strong one, but Dillard doesn't shy away from the economic differences and realities of a small town. Although the solution to the competition may not be especially realistic, it's a satisfying one and J.D. is a real kid, aware of his family's financial struggles, sometimes jealous of his best friend's wealthier lifestyle, and frustrated with not being able to fit in.
Verdict: For the readers in my small, midwestern town, this is another world, from the focus on haircuts and styles, the behavior of kids in school, to the slang and the general culture of the South. J.D. is a relatable character in many ways, despite how unfamiliar his life may be to my audience. It's great to see something that introduces kids to a different part of American life with humor and a fun plot. This might not be for everyone, but I think it's worth taking a chance that your kids will be into it.
ISBN: 9780593111529; Published February 2021 by Kokila; Borrowed from another library in my consortium
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