Frizzy

Frizzy: Ortega, Claribel A., Bousamra, Rose: 9781250259639: Amazon.com: Books

Bibliography

Ortega, Claribel A. 2022. FRIZZY. Ill. by Rose Bousamra. New York: First Second. ISBN 9781250259639.

Plot Summary

Frizzy tells the story of Marlene, a Dominican American girl who is tired of the weekly salon visits that straighten her natural curls. As she pushes back against expectations from her family and community, she learns how to embrace her true self and redefine beauty on her own terms.

Critical Analysis

This is a quiet but powerful story about identity, culture, and confidence. Ortega’s writing is heartfelt and patient while Bousamra’s illustrations capture every shift in emotion. The mother daughter dynamic is honest and layered, giving readers a chance to witness generational beliefs being challenged with love. One of my students requested Frizzy last year, and I am so glad I bought it at the time because reading it for this module showed me how thoughtful and important this story really is. It feels validating for any child who has ever felt pressured to change themselves to fit someone else’s idea of what is acceptable.

Review Excerpts

Starred Review from Children’s Literature: “This new graphic novel is the perfect choice for readers contemplating their own identity and self-expression.”

Connections

Frizzy naturally opens the door to meaningful conversations about identity, cultural expectations, and the pressure kids feel to change themselves to please others. Since one of my students specifically requested this book last year, it already feels like a special match for the kids I teach now. Students can reflect on a family expectation or tradition they love or struggle with, which helps them process generational beliefs the same way Marlene does. 


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