Children want more than ever to see themselves in books, and as we make a big trumpeting noise about celebrating diversity on this blog, this book instantly caught our eye.
Inside you'll find a daydreamy lyrical and utterly fantastic story of young Sofia, a girl with amazing hair and an amazing outlook on life.
Sofia's hair is special because whenever her mum washes and combs it, Sofia becomes very sleepy and begins to travel in her dreams - deep into the heart of Africa where she meets her ancestors and begins to find out more about her heritage and the history of that vibrant landscape and its people.
Jessica expertly weaves a beautiful tale into the kinks and curls of Sofia's hair, coming up with a storybook that has broad appeal, and a zinging thrill of originality and energy to it.
Coupled with Tom's brilliant painterly illustrations, it's a book that instantly stands out head and shoulders above others (no hair pun intended).
Superb!
"Sofia the Dreamer and her Magical Afro" by Jessica Wilson and Tom Rawles is out now, independently published by Tallawah Publishing (kindly sent for review).