In The Wonder Wig, Dr. Shon Shree Lewis weaves a narrative around Brooke, a young girl grappling with self-esteem issues rooted primarily in her discomfort with her short hair. The story is set against a backdrop of familial warmth, with Brooke’s father, Craig, working as a construction worker and her mother, Barb, owning a hair salon, along with the supportive presence of her grandparents.

The plot thickens when Brooke, in an attempt to impress a boy at school, dons one of her mother’s wigs without permission. This impulsive decision, leading to an embarrassing incident at school, marks the beginning of a rift between Brooke and her mother. Barb’s reluctance to let Brooke experiment with her hair only exacerbates the situation, fueling a growing resentment in Brooke. Brooke’s journey turns interesting when she discovers a passion for wigs at her aunt Pam’s salon. This newfound interest culminates in a heartwarming gesture – gifting a wig to a patient suffering from alopecia. This act is pivotal in Brooke’s life, setting the stage for further developments that the reader is invited to discover.

The book delves into the often-underappreciated aspect of being comfortable with one’s hair. In a world where the haircare industry thrives, propelled mainly by the desire of many to alter their appearance, the story highlights the pressure to conform to specific beauty standards. The narrative explores the reasons behind such desires, be it for self-confidence, to impress others, or to emulate public figures. The flexibility and transformational ability of wigs are showcased, paralleled with the message that each individual’s natural hair is a unique aspect of their identity. The author gently encourages acceptance and appreciation of one’s natural beauty, challenging societal beauty norms. Brooke’s story mirrors the emotional landscape of many teenagers, encapsulating their desire to impress and the associated emotional turmoil. Her eventual embrace of wigs as a tool for confidence is a crucial theme of the book.

The Wonder Wig is a call to women of all races to recognize and celebrate their inherent beauty, challenging the societal norms dictating it. Lewis’s novel is both inspiring and thought-provoking, making it a recommended read for women seeking a fresh perspective on beauty and self-confidence. The story will resonate beyond its pages, leaving the reader reflecting on personal identity and societal standards.

Pages: 118 | ASIN : B08TH6VRMT