Join in an author talk with Jaylene Clark Owens on “A Black Girl and Her Braids.”
AUTHOR TALK DETAILS
1/11/2026 at 12:00 PM
BARNES & NOBLE
1708 CHESTNUT ST
PHILADELPHIA, PA 19103-5120
About the Author:
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!
About the Book:
Based on the viral poem, braids of all lengths, looks, parts, and styles are explored and cheered on in this vibrant picture book celebrating the versatility of Black hair.
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!
