Madam C.J. Walker Builds a Business

November 4, 2019
This first chapter book from Rebel Girls profiles the first female self-made millionaire, Sarah Breedlove (1867–1919), the mastermind behind the Madame C.J. Walker empire and leading voice in support of natural hair care for black women. The story begins with Breedlove’s childhood; she was the first in her family not born into slavery and to attend school. As a widowed single mother, she meets Annie Turnbo, creator of the “Wonderful Hair Grower” shampoo, which transforms her life and eventually inspires her own creation: “Madame C.J. Walker’s Wonderful Hair Grower.” Full-color illustrations by debut illustrator Perera highlight seminal scenes from Breedlove’s life and further humanize the historical figure. Rooted in fact, this lightly fictionalized account gives readers an opportunity to connect with Breedlove as a storied individual whose entrepreneurial prowess and support of black women continues to impact people today. A closing activity encourages readers to imagine their own unique product, with accompanying advertising and elevator pitch. Also available: Ada Lovelace. Ages 6–9.

Listeners will enjoy hearing this account of Sarah Breedlove's remarkable business success during the early twentieth century. Adenrele Ojo narrates the entrepreneur's story with feeling, highlighting the challenges Breedlove (aka Madame C.J. Walker) faced and the opportunities she created--for herself and others. Ojo is especially skilled at creating engaging dialogue that entertains and informs young listeners learning about Breedlove's tough early life (she was the first in her family not born into slavery), eventual success, and desire to enrich her community. Determined to find a hair product for herself, Breedlove ultimately invented and marketed a product for African-American women's hair, which became the foundation of her empire. In this lively narration, Ojo shares fascinating biographical details about Breedlove--and the times she lived in. J.C.G. � AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine