Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut is a 2017 picture book by Derrick Barnes, illustrated by Gordon C. James. The book, Barnes' first picture book, is a poem describing a boy's feelings and experience while getting a haircut. James, who was not the first choice to be the illustrator, wanted the oil color illustrations to have the feel of fine art. Crown was well received, as Barnes received a **2018 Newbery Honor** and **Coretta Scott King Award** for his writing, while James received a **2018 Caldecott Honor** and Coretta Scott King Award for his illustrations. Critics noted the unique setting and the way it celebrated African Americans, especially African American boys.
How it feels
AtmosphereBleak
How it reads
Character focusSingle lead
Worth knowing
Written forChildrenMiddle grade
When and where
Reading situationRead aloud
How do you feel?