In the new children's book Sulwe by Lupita Nyong'o, the titular character Sulwe embarks on a journey of self-acceptance and celebration. The little girl with skin the "color of midnight" combats colorism and discovers the true meaning of beauty. "I wrote this to give dark-skinned kids a chance to live in the world of imagination and magic" says Noyong'o.
To Lupita Nyong'o, the theme of acceptance in Sulwe is important. The academy-award winning actor wrote Sulwe in hopes that its readers could find self-acceptance and comfort in their own skin. "It took me a while to find my stride and learn to love the skin I'm in, and so I wrote this book to help little kids get there a little faster," she says of her story. Nyong'o wrote Sulwe after growing up with only blonde, white, characters like Cinderella and Thumbelina available to her in books and media.
Actress-Written Children's Books
Sulwe Teaches Acceptance Through Representation and Positivity
Trend Themes
1. Diversity in Children's Books - There is a growing trend towards more diverse and inclusive representation in children's literature, providing an opportunity for authors and publishers to create stories that celebrate different cultures and backgrounds.
2. Empowering Self-acceptance - Books like Sulwe that focus on themes of self-acceptance and empowerment present an opportunity for authors and publishers to create content that helps children develop a positive sense of self and acceptance of diversity.
3. Representation in Media - The increasing demand for more diverse representation in media, including children's books, presents an opportunity for creators to disrupt traditional narratives and showcase diverse voices and experiences.
Industry Implications
1. Publishing - The publishing industry can capitalize on the trend of diversity in children's books by seeking out and supporting authors who write stories that reflect the experiences of underrepresented groups.
2. Education - The education industry can leverage books like Sulwe that promote self-acceptance and celebrate diversity as valuable teaching tools to foster inclusive classrooms and promote cultural understanding among students.
3. Entertainment - The entertainment industry has an opportunity to disrupt traditional narratives and create more inclusive content for children by promoting and producing diverse children's books that challenge stereotypes and encourage empathy.