Bippity Bop Barbershop
By Natasha Anastasia Tarpley
Illustrated by E. B. Lewis
Little, Brown and Company - February 2002
ISBN: 0-316-52284-8 - Hardbound
Children's Fiction
Reading Level: Ages 4 - 8

Reviewed by: Beverly J. Rowe, MyShelf.com
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This is a story about cultural identity and the male bonding of fathers and sons. Miles makes his first trip to a barber shop and gets encouragement from all the men he meets and advice on being brave. This is a happy book about loving people and overcoming fear of the unknown. The delightful watercolor illustrations really bring the story to life and enhance the African-American theme; a wonderful read for children from all cultures.

Solving the dilemma of what kind of haircut to have is solved when Miles looks at photos of styles and then at his Daddy. Looking like Daddy is just what he wants to do. Tarpley is a very talented, upbeat writer that really sends young readers a reassuring message. She takes a part of everyday life and shows us what makes it special.