A Black Girl and Her Braids BOOK TOUR by Jaylene Clark Owens

Malik Books (Westfield Culver City Mall) proudly presents A Black Girl and Her Braids on January 24, 2024 at 2PM a joyful and affirming literary celebration honoring Black girls, their hair, and the cultural legacy of braids.

Join acclaimed actress, spoken word poet, and author Jaylene Clark Owens for a special reading and discussion of her empowering picture book that serves as a love letter to Black girls of all ages. Through lyrical storytelling, Owens explores the deep cultural roots of braids and how Black communities continue to honor tradition while embracing creativity, innovation, and self-expression—even in the face of rules and regulations meant to police Black hair.

The book is beautifully illustrated by Brittney Bond, a self-taught digital artist known for her vibrant color palettes, radiant lighting, and uplifting visual storytelling. Her illustrations bring braids of all lengths, colors, and styles to life, celebrating everything from classic looks to bold, futuristic designs.

This family-friendly event will also feature support from haircare sponsors Donna’s Recipe, 4U, and Dosso*, underscoring the importance of healthy hair practices and community-based Black-owned brands.Together, this event promises an inspiring afternoon of storytelling, art, and affirmation—encouraging Black girls to proudly wear their braids, embrace their confidence, and celebrate their beauty without apology.

Free Event but strongly recommend the Purchase of book with add on or Click link to

Limited Swag bags while supplies last provided by our sponsors Donna’s Recipe, 4U, and Dosso*

About the creators:

Jaylene Clark Owens (she/her) is a vibrant and imaginative soul hailing from Harlem, New York, and is currently residing in the Greater Philadelphia region. She is an AUDELCO and Barrymore Award–winning actress, as well as a highly acclaimed, award-winning spoken word poet. Her acting credits include the stage, film, and television. Her passion for honoring, and advocating for, Black women and their hair has led her to create work celebrating various styles, such as braids, locs, twists, ’fros, and the Black girl switch up!

Brittney Bond (she/her) is a self-taught artist from Florida, currently living in Maryland. A lifelong fan of art, drawing, and design, Bond has managed to turn her childhood passion into a full-time career, focusing on digital art with fun color palettes, interesting lighting, and positivity that shines through her work. Find her on Instagram @prismaviolet_.

A BLACK GIRL AND HER BRAIDS

About the book:
Join author Jaylene Clark Owens as she pens an ode to Black girls and braids, a dynamic duo. This empowering picture book shines a light on what braids mean to Black girls of all ages and shows how Black communities have managed to continuously make space for braids, paying homage to their origins while making fun and futuristic styles, despite rules and regulations attempting to condemn them. Braids of all lengths, colors, and styles are brought to life with detailed illustrations from Brittney Bond, crafting a timeless book which honors creativity, encourages confidence, and calls for Black girls to proudly show off their braids no matter what!

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Host or Publisher Malik Books