Children’s Book Review: Sulwe

Title: Sulwe    
Author: Lupita Nyong’o
Reviewed by: Michaelene M

Sulwe is a picture book for young readers written by Academy-Award winning actress Lupita Nyong’o. 

The book follows Sulwe, a young child whose skin is darker than anyone else in her family, and she is treated differently because of it. It isn’t until Sulwe’s swept amongst the stars and she learns a tale of two sisters that she begins to understand her beauty.

Nyong’o based Sulwe’s story on her own childhood experiences with colorism. The book is beautifully written with illustrations by Vashti Harrison that are particularly striking, each page alternating between soft pastels and deep navy that add a touch of magic and whimsy.

Sulwe is an uplifting, heartwarming tale that radiates warmth and embraces acceptance, self-esteem, and self-worth. Recommended for any young reader.

Sulwe is available as a physical book in the library and is also available as an e-book in the Oklahoma Virtual Library. Call us at 580-234-6313 to place a hold.