When Josey wonders why people are so different, Dad helps her understand that our differences aren't a mistake. In fact, we have many differences because God is creative!
Josie is spending the day with Dad―getting her hair braided at Monique's Beauty Shop, and picking out a new red dress for Sunday. Because Sunday is Pentecost! In the process, she learns to celebrate the differences she sees all around her as part of God's plan for his creation.
Children and the adults who read with them are invited to join Josey as she learns of God's wonderfully diverse design. Also included is a note from the author to encourage further conversation about the content.
Discover IVP Kids and share with children the things that matter to God!
"Every page and picture in this little book brings a smile to my face and a warmth to my heart. For a Black girl with textured hair like me, it is both nostalgic and meaningful. Esau's pen is always powerful, but here it is very likely the most personal-a father's love letter to his beloved and beautiful brown-skinned daughter. Dear reader, Josie's story will remind you-and every young girl attached to you-that your uniqueness is a reflection of the Father's creative genius. And then it willinvite you to embrace every curl and to love the skin you're in."
Priscilla Shirer
"The exuberant story, with illustrations to match, manages to explain Pentecost, affirm Josey's Blackness as 'God's work of art' and celebrate human difference as evidence of God's plan for creation at the same time. That's a lot for a picture book, but it works!"
The Presbyterian Outlook, May 2022
"Esau paints a beautiful picture of how we can weave biblical teaching into the ordinary stuff of life, like a visit to the salon for your daughter's extraordinarily gorgeous hair. Josey Johnson's Hair and the Holy Spirit will help you share about the image of God, the gospel for all nations, and the Holy Spirit, all while helping your child gain the invaluable knowledge that she is fearfully and wonderfully made."
Trillia Newbell, author of The Big Wide Welcome and God's Very Good Idea