Book cover for Tenderheaded: A Comb-Bending Collection of Hair Stories by Pamela Johnson

Tenderheaded

A Comb-Bending Collection of Hair Stories

2002 Released
320 Pages
5-7 Hours
Ebook Unavailable
Audiobook Unavailable
Hardback Unavailable
Atria BooksISBN 9780671047566
In this "outstanding volume" (Boston Herald) that "ought to be at the top of everyone's must-read list" (Essence), Black women and men evocatively explore what could make a smart woman ignore doctor's orders; what could get a hardworking employee fired from her job; what could get a black woman in hot water with her white boyfriend? In a word: hair.

In a society where beauty standards can be difficult if not downright unobtainable for many Black women, the issue of hair is a major one. Now, in this evocative and fascinating collection of essays, poems, excerpts, and more, Tenderheaded speaks to the personal, political, and cultural meaning of Black hair.

From A'​Leila Perry Bundles, the great-granddaughter of hair care pioneer Madam C.J. Walker celebrating her ancestor's legacy, to an art historian exploring the moving ways in which Black hair has been used to express Yoruba spirituality, to renowned activist Angela Davis questioning how her message of revolution got reduced to a hairstyle, Tenderheaded is as rich and diverse as the children of the African diaspora.

With works from authors including Toni Morrison, Alice Walker, bell hooks, Henry Louis Gates Jr., and more, this "remarkable array of writings and images" (Publishers Weekly) will stay with you long after you turn the final page.

Pamela Johnson

WASKONEGABOWIIK, also known as Pamela Johnson, is from the Ginozhe clan and grew up in Seine River First Nation. She is a survivor of the Indian Day School. She speaks fluent Anishinaabemowin and grew up with Anishinaabe teachings, culture and traditions. After pursuing many careers to help her people, she works as a part-time instructor for Seven Generations Education Institute in the Niigaanendataa Program and as a freelance teacher and translator. She lives in Mitaanjigamiing First Nation.

More by Pamela Johnson

Why Readwise Books?

Readwise Books is an ebook & audiobook platform that automatically logs how much you and your friends read, making it fun and easy to read more. Learn more →