Freedom Braids

By Monique Duncan
Illustrated by Oboh Moses
Published by Lantana
Distributed by Simon & Schuster

About The Book

Day after day, Nemy is forced to sow seeds in the sugarcane plantation, until one night, she follows a woman called Big Mother to a hidden shack. There, she finds a group of women braiding each other’s hair. But these are no ordinary braids. Hidden in each elaborate pattern is a secret – a message that signals their intent to flee and a map to guide them in their escape. Will the paths these courageous women weave guide Nemy to a new home where she can be free?

About The Author

Monique Duncan

Monique Duncan is a Black author of Jamaican descent. Her book 'When Mama Braids My Hair' was nominated for the Ezra Jack Keats Award. She has an extensive background in education and fine arts coupled with a passion for teaching and preserving Black history and culture. She lives in New York City.

About The Illustrator

Oboh Moses

Oboh Moses is a black digital illustrator who has been passionate about art since he was seven years old. In 2021, his work was selected for the American Illustration 40th Anniversary Annual. He lives and works in Lagos, Nigeria.

Product Details

  • Publisher: Lantana (May 26, 2026)
  • Length: 40 pages
  • ISBN13: 9781915244802
  • Ages: 3 - 5

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Freedom Braids

By Monique Duncan
Illustrated by Oboh Moses
Published by Lantana
Distributed by Simon & Schuster
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