Book Nook - Know Your Hairitage: Zion's Crown

 Zenda Walker, best-selling, award-winning author and licensed cosmetologist, proudly introduces her empowering Know Your Hairitage series. This groundbreaking series, published by Running Press Kids, aims to celebrate Black heritage through the lens of textured hair. Featuring stunning illustrations by self-taught Nigerian artist Princess Karibo, the series already includes two transformative titles: Zara’s Wash Day and Zion’s Crown. With a foreword by Academy Award-winning actor Lupita Nyong’o and an endorsement from Dr. Ibram X. Kendi, this series is designed to uplift young readers by helping them connect with their cultural identity and embrace their natural hair.

Zion’s Crown: Uplifting Black Boys to Embrace Their Heritage

Continuing the series, Zenda Walker introduces Zion’s Crown, which tells the story of two young Black boys, Zion and Zayn, who struggle with societal pressure to conform and reject their natural hair. Their father steps in to guide them through a transformative journey that helps them understand the significance of their hairstyles and the deep cultural roots behind them. With this story, Walker aims to foster pride and self-acceptance in young Black boys.

“Creating a story of joy and celebration was my way of shifting the energy and changing the narrative for Black and Brown children,” says Walker. Zion’s Crown not only tells a powerful story of cultural pride but also includes a tutorial on creating Zion’s signature cornrow style, making it a valuable resource for parents and educators alike.

The book has received glowing praise from Dr. Ibram X. Kendi, who commends it for promoting self-love and cultural appreciation.

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Zara’s Wash Day: A Celebration of Tradition and Joy

In Zara’s Wash Day, young Zara isn’t excited about her usual hairstyles. However, when her mother takes her on a cultural journey, explaining the historical significance of each hairstyle, Zara begins to see the beauty and pride in her textured hair. For Black women, Wash Day is more than just a routine — it’s a ritual that connects them to their culture and heritage. Zenda Walker, passionate about beauty education, has captured this essential cultural moment in a story that celebrates Black hair, tradition, and empowerment.

About the Illustrator

Princess Karibo, a self-taught illustrator from Nigeria, adds a vibrant visual layer to both books with her stunning depictions of Black hair and culture. “I loved bringing these stories to life through my illustrations. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the rich textures and styles of Black hair in a visually engaging way,” says Karibo.

Where to Purchase

Zara’s Wash Day and Zion’s Crown are both available at Target.com. The books are essential additions to any family’s bookshelf, providing valuable lessons in self-love, cultural pride, and the beauty of textured hair.

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR AND ILLUSTRATOR

 

Zenda Walker is a best-selling, award-winning author, licensed cosmetologist, and marketing executive. She is passionate about beauty education and helping people to discover the magic of textured hair. Originally from the Bronx, New York, Zenda enjoys traveling, spontaneous dance parties, exploring and developing beauty trends and chocolate desserts. She is co-founder of Bounce Mobile Fitness Club, LLC.—a fitness business specializing in rebounding workouts. Zenda resides in New York with her daughter, Zara.

Princess Karibo is a self-taught illustrator from Nigeria, West Africa. She enjoys working on traditional art by day and digital art projects by night.