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Sulwe Hardcover – Picture Book, October 15, 2019

by Lupita Nyong'o (Author), Vashti Harrison (Illustrator)
4.9 4.9 out of 5 stars 8,166 ratings
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A New York Times bestseller!
Featured in its own episode in the Netflix original show Bookmarks: Celebrating Black Voices!
Recipient of a Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor Award
Recipient of an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Children’s Literary Work

From Academy Award–winning actress Lupita Nyong’o comes a powerful, moving picture book about colorism, self-esteem, and learning that true beauty comes from within.

Sulwe has skin the color of midnight. She is darker than everyone in her family. She is darker than anyone in her school. Sulwe just wants to be beautiful and bright, like her mother and sister. Then a magical journey in the night sky opens her eyes and changes everything.

In this stunning debut picture book, actress Lupita Nyong’o creates a whimsical and heartwarming story to inspire children to see their own unique beauty.
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Previous page
  1. Reading age
    3 - 8 years, from customers
  2. Print length
    48 pages
  3. Language
    English
  4. Grade level
    Preschool - 3
  5. Lexile measure
    AD580L
  6. Dimensions
    9 x 0.5 x 11.38 inches
  7. Publisher
    Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
  8. Publication date
    October 15, 2019
  9. ISBN-10
    1534425365
  10. ISBN-13
    978-1534425361
  11. See all details
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From the Publisher

Editorial Reviews

Review

"A thoughtfully layered text and powerful illustrations address this sensitive topic [of colorism] in a uniquely nurturing way." ― Kirkus Reviews, starred review

*"By turns beguiling (as when Sulwe’s mother counsels her tearful daughter) and magical (a shooting star darts into Sulwe’s room to share the story of Night and Day), the volume also clearly conveys that colorism is real, and it hurts. Sulwe’s story confronts it head-on, with words and images that celebrate the 'dark and beautiful, bright and strong.'" ― Publishers Weekly, starred review

"A welcome celebration of Black girls, an important lesson for all kids (and grownups), and a necessary message for any child who has been made to feel unworthy of love on account of their looks." ― Booklist

About the Author

Lupita Nyong’o is a Kenyan actress and producer. Her first feature film role was in the film 12 Years a Slave, for which she received the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress as well as multiple accolades, including the Screen Actors Guild Award, the Critics’ Choice Award, the Independent Spirit Award, and the NAACP Award. She has since starred in Mira Nair’s Queen of Katwe, Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Ryan Coogler’s record-breaking box office hit Black Panther, and most recently in Jordan’s Peele’s critically acclaimed horror film Us. Nyong’o earned a Tony nomination for her Broadway debut in Danai Gurira’s play Eclipsed. She lives in Brooklyn.

Vashti Harrison, author and illustrator of the bestselling Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History, is an artist, author, and filmmaker with a passion for storytelling. She earned her MFA in film and video from California Institute of the Arts, where she snuck into animation and illustration classes to learn from Disney and DreamWorks legends. There she rekindled a love for drawing and painting. Now she uses her love for both film and illustration to craft beautiful stories for children.

Product details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers; Illustrated edition (October 15, 2019)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 48 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1534425365
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1534425361
  • Reading age ‏ : ‎ 3 - 8 years, from customers
  • Lexile measure ‏ : ‎ AD580L
  • Grade level ‏ : ‎ Preschool - 3
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.2 pounds
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 9 x 0.5 x 11.38 inches
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.9 4.9 out of 5 stars 8,166 ratings

About the author

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Vashti Harrison

Vashti Harrison

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Vashti Harrison is the New York Times bestselling creator of Big, which was awarded the 2024 Caldecott Medal, a Coretta Scott King Book Award Author Honor, and a Coretta Scott King Book Award Illustrator Honor, in addition to being a National Book Award finalist. Vashti is also the #1 New York Times bestselling creator of Little Leaders, Little Dreamers, and Little Legends, and the illustrator of Lupita Nyong’o’s Sulwe (for which she received a Coretta Scott King Book Award Illustrator Honor), Matthew A. Cherry’s Hair Love, Andrea Beaty's I Love You Like Yellow, and Stephanie V.W. Lucianovic’s Hello, Star, among others. A two-time recipient of the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literary Work for Children, Vashti lives in Brooklyn, New York, and invites you to visit her online at vashtiharrison dot com.

Customer reviews

4.9 out of 5 stars
4.9 out of 5
8,166 global ratings
Your Beautiful Black Child Will Thank You Later
5 Stars
Your Beautiful Black Child Will Thank You Later
The Pros:Lupita Nyongo and Vashti Harrison are the duo I didn't realize my book collection needed! Sulwe is such a sincere, carefully constructed story about a child in need of perspective. It tackles the complex issue of colorism in a way that children understand. Adult readers will find it touching too.Sulwe is one of the first few Vashti Harrison illustrations I ever purchased. Her artwork is transformative, and beautiful beyond measure. I imagine that if Sulwe contained 0 words, I'd still be able to thoroughly experience all of its magic.The Cons:I wish there were MORE Sulwe books. I know it wasn't intended to be a series, but I would love to see Sulwe gain more understanding about life, and self acceptance. I believe that she's a character worth knowing.Overall Thoughts:Your beautiful black child will thank you later. Buy this book for them. Buy another copy for you.
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Top reviews from the United States

FlyTysun
5.0 out of 5 stars A Radiant Journey of Self-Discovery - “Sulwe” Shines Brightly!
Reviewed in the United States on September 17, 2023
Verified Purchase
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Sulwe” is an absolute gem of a book! From its enchanting narrative to its breathtaking illustrations, it has left an indelible mark on my heart. This captivating story takes readers on a poignant journey of self-discovery and self-love.

The moment I opened the book, I was immediately drawn into Sulwe’s world, a young girl who struggles with her dark skin color and yearns for acceptance. Lupita Nyong’o’s storytelling is beautifully heartfelt and emotionally resonant. It’s a story that transcends age, race, and culture, making it relatable to readers of all backgrounds.

What truly sets “Sulwe” apart are the stunning illustrations by Vashti Harrison. Each page is a visual masterpiece, bursting with vibrant colors and intricate details that breathe life into the story. The artwork not only enhances the narrative but also conveys the powerful message of embracing one’s unique beauty.

As Sulwe embarks on her journey to self-acceptance, readers are taken on a heartfelt ride filled with valuable lessons about self-worth and the importance of inner beauty. This book is a conversation starter, a tool for parents and educators to foster discussions on self-esteem and diversity with children.

“Sulwe” is a book that not only inspires but also empowers. It encourages readers to embrace their individuality, to be proud of who they are, and to see the beauty in themselves and others. It is a celebration of diversity and a testament to the fact that our differences are what make us truly special.

In conclusion, “Sulwe” is a five-star masterpiece that deserves a place on every bookshelf. It’s a book that will touch your soul, fill your heart with warmth, and leave you with a powerful message that lingers long after you’ve turned the final page. Lupita Nyong’o and Vashti Harrison have created a literary treasure that will inspire generations to come. A must-read for children and adults alike!
3 people found this helpful
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5.0 out of 5 stars Love this book
Reviewed in the United States on February 17, 2024
Verified Purchase
My daughter and I have been reading this book together for years. Beautifully and creatively written with wonderful and engaging characters. The books tells a story of self doubt that children of color can face but shines through with a message of self confidence and self love in a way that is very entertaining and engaging for children. Love it.
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Ohio
5.0 out of 5 stars Lovely book and story. Nothing controversial here.
Reviewed in the United States on March 2, 2023
Verified Purchase
This is a beautiful book and story. It is about a little girl who has the darkest skin in her family and doesn't feel pretty or as worthy as her mother and sisters. It was written by Lupita Nyong'o and based on her own feelings and experiences as a child. The illustrations are exceptional. They are both artistic and adorable. Sulwe's emotions are clearly written on her face.

I had recently heard that this book was being pulled from school shelves. As an old white lady and lifelong reader who grew up in one of the whitest states in the USA, that really angered me. One of the benefits of reading is to learn about people different than yourself. The lessons of this book can apply to any child of any race. While it addresses colorism, that is not the point of the story. It is about family, love, and loving oneself. Any child who is insecure about physical appearance could get something out of this book. It is also important to teach children to be kind to others. I don't have grandchildren, but this copy may go to my one of my great nieces/nephews. I would proudly buy this book again in the future.

The amount of censorship attempted in our country is problematic. I hope that this book being pulled from schools is an exaggeration of what is going on in Florida. If not, we should all be concerned.
26 people found this helpful
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Pillow Play Parties
5.0 out of 5 stars A Lesson for Everyone!
Reviewed in the United States on January 12, 2020
Verified Purchase
This book was beautifully told! I loved the story of day and night and that they were both represented as beatiful African women. The story and illustrations were terrific!

The book almost has it all, minus one thing (I'll get to that). Lessons we all need to learn about ourselves and others. I bought it for my son and will when I have grandchildren or other children to give a gift to, though I think EVERYONE should read this book!

1. Beauty comes in all colors (And Lupita is certainly an example of that!)

2. There is value in people of ALL colors
(Racism is stupid and ignorant. In a perfect world, it wouldn't exist)

3. True beauty comes from within.
(You could be the most beautiful person, but a selfish, narcissist attitude makes you ugly)

4. LOVE YOURSELF!
(Flaws and all. It's the path to true happiness)

5. Love the beauty in others!
(Treat people with kindness. That does NOT mean let them take advantage of you. Love YOU first! Not letting people take advantage of you isn't in the book, but you've GOT to take care of your needs or you'll burn out and not be able to take care of others.)

What wasn't in the book is if you love yourself and are kind to others, most (sadly not all) will respond positively towards you and you'll get friends. My only complaint is that it didn't show the full change in Sulwe. She loved herself, which is fantastic, but by having that light within her, it would attract others to her and she'd have friends.

Also, as a side note, helping others whether hands on or financially (e.g. donating to charities) makes your light shine brighter!

Overall? Excellent book that deserves 5 stars and everyone should read! 🥰🥰🥰
3 people found this helpful
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Top reviews from other countries

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AfricanShift Mindset
5.0 out of 5 stars Very interesting and inspiring.
Reviewed in Canada on May 5, 2024
Verified Purchase
Thanks Lupita for empowering our kids by sharing this inspirational message.
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Jil
5.0 out of 5 stars Vou comprar o impresso quando tiver filhos.
Reviewed in Brazil on December 18, 2021
Verified Purchase
Como falei, Vou comprar o impresso quando tiver filhos. Faz muito sentindo trazer a comoração do negro retinto com o mãos claro. Existe muitas formas de abordar o racismo. E esse foi realmente inovador. Existe tom de pele de negro que passa, outros não dá para disfarçar e as crianças sentem isso.
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kavamag
5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent
Reviewed in France on February 4, 2024
Verified Purchase
Elle a adoré ce livre
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Luis
5.0 out of 5 stars Buen libro, fácil lectura para niños con ilustraciones muy bonitas
Reviewed in Mexico on May 23, 2021
Verified Purchase
El contenido del libro es bueno, lectura sencilla para niños.

Buena calidad de impresión.
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J.R.
5.0 out of 5 stars Bezaubernd
Reviewed in Germany on February 1, 2023
Verified Purchase
Was für ein wundervolles Kinderbuch zum Englisch lesen üben, aber vor allem für Kinder mit dem gleichen ethnischen Hintergrund. Es schenkt Hoffnung und Mut.
One person found this helpful
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