Natalie’s Library Corner

Our free lending library is always growing and this month we are excited to share two new books ready to be borrowed and loved.

Visit our lending library: njarch.org/library

A Buffalo Out of Water written by Jeff Dunn, an adoptive dad of two boys.

This heartfelt story is brought vividly to life through incredibly beautiful illustrations. It follows Wade, a young water buffalo, as he journeys to understand his adoption story. It explores feelings of grief and loss that adoption brings for adopted children. This book offers a gentle and meaningful exploration of identity, a sense of belonging, and connection to birth and adoptive families. At the end of the book, Dunn offers some helpful and insightful tips for families and friends about adoption. This book would be great for a transracial family, international adoption story and for children in elementary school.

 

 

Your Hair Is Your Crown written by Tamekia Swint, is a joyful, affirming story that celebrates natural hair and the importance of self-love. With engaging illustrations and a strong, positive message, it encourages children to take pride in who they are. The story reflects the cultural significance of hair within Black culture, where hair is often seen as an expression of identity, history, and pride across all stages of life. For families formed through adoption and kinship, especially those parenting transracially, this book offers a meaningful way to begin conversations about identity, representation, and culture. It is a helpful reminder of how important it is for children to see themselves reflected and celebrated.  This is a warm and accessible read that supports positive self-image while also helping caregivers continue to grow in understanding and connecting to their child’s experience.

* A special note from the author:  “I wrote Your Hair is Your Crown as a tribute to the many adoptees and children in care who have sat in my chair and touched my heart. Thank you to NJ Arch for helping share this message with families, because every child deserves to wear their crown with confidence.”  – Tamekia Swint, Founder of Styles 4 Kidz NFP, Author, Hair Stylist, and Hair Educator