Qiana’s Braids: A Salon Story of Pride and Power

In this Festival Flashback Friday episode, author Chanda Austin discusses her children’s book Qiana’s Braids, a celebration of natural Black hair and the beauty-salon culture that builds pride and community. She shares the inspiration behind the book, the importance of authentic representation, and the history and meaning of braids.

Released in June 2020, the book sold over 700 copies in two months and led to new opportunities for Austin, including board invitations and upcoming projects like an HBCU coloring book. The episode highlights how children’s stories can spark important conversations about identity, culture, and inclusion.