Can I Touch Your Hair?

‘A unique, poetic approach to discussing race through the eyes of two children… Each poem has a simplicity and honesty that reflects the reality of so many children, illustrating their similarities and differences with sensitivity and thoughtfulness without shirking the big issues… exudes truth and reality throughout.’

* School Librarian *

‘The poems delicately demonstrate the complexity of identity and the power of communication to build friendships.’

* Publishers Weekly *

‘A compelling portrait of two youngsters dancing delicately through a racial minefield.'

* J. Patrick Lewis, former US Children's Poet Laureate *

‘These poems explore diversity with refreshing honesty and complexity.’

* Janet Wong, author and co-creator of The Poetry Friday Anthology series *

'An unusually candid book for pre-YA kids about race and difference, allowing for the possibility of the mistakes (the word is right in the subtitle) but also a hopeful outcome as Irene and Charles find enrichment in their friendship.'

* The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books *

'A fresh and heartwarming take on bridging the racial divide.'

* Carole Boston Weatherford, author of Voice of Freedom *

'This is a story to treasure, and should be in every classroom... The poems are intensely moving, occasionally funny, and often revealing... A superb book.'

* Books for Keeps *

'A brave and touching portrayal worthy of sharing in classrooms across America.'

* Kirkus *

'An excellent read-aloud or a launch pad for collaborative classroom writing.'

* Horn Book Magazi