Bald Is Beautiful
By Carola Schmidt
The book is subtitled A Letter for a Fabulous Girl, and it’s a lovely letter.
Carola Schmidt is a pediatric oncology pharmacist who writes books for families encountering cancer and other illnesses. I’ve already reviewed her wonderful new book, When A Brave Bear Has Cancer, and her loving voice needs to be heard. She brings light and love into a fearful and often frightening place.
Bald Is Beautiful is not just for cancer patients, but for any woman experiencing either temporary or permanent hair loss. Schmidt specializes in sharing practical information couched firmly in love.
As a healthcare advocate, I have observed – and experienced – two common problems for girls and women experiencing a major health diagnosis. We struggle to face the changes in our bodies and speak negatively about ourselves. It’s especially challenging for school-aged girls who do not want to be so obviously different from their peers. Kids can be cruel.
Bald Is Beautiful is a great resource to help girls of any age deal with hair loss. Dian Ovieta’s colorful, positive illustrations introduce us to a sweet girl spending time with her dog, other girls, and by herself. The beautiful girl faces an unsettling world, while the words help her remember she is beautiful and loved.
Carola Schmidt’s verse is lovely. She does not offer platitudes or unrealistic promises that every moment of every day will be great. But no matter what each day brings, the girl is beautiful and loved. Schmidt also addresses ways to practice self-care, a crucial but often overlooked part of healthcare. The story even presents a fun, nurturing party idea.
Bald Is Beautiful is a wonderful reminder to girls that we are beautiful and loved, no matter what we’re facing.
Bald Is Beautiful is a wonderful reminder to girls that we are beautiful and loved, no matter what we're facing. Share on XThanks to Blackberry Book Tours for providing me a copy of this lovely book.
