Faisal looking at his curly red hair in the mirror before a family photo
My Curly Red Hair
My Curly Red Hair
Average Rating: 0.0
Country: Jordan
Author: Yazan Masarweh
Illustrator: Flyin
Ages: 5-8
Publisher: Room to Read
Story Source: Literacy cloud

About The Story

Faisal struggles with his curly red hair—he thinks it’s wild, unruly, and not like anyone else’s. He just wants to fit in. As Grandma visits for a family photo, Faisal tries everything to change his hair. But during Grandma’s visit he begins to see it in a new light. This heartwarming story gently explores themes of self-acceptance, self-esteem, and the importance of celebrating our differences. Faisal’s journey reflects how children often internalize standards of beauty—and how love and encouragement can change that perspective.

Themes

Inclusion & Disability
Social & Emotional Learning (SEL)
Health & Wellbeing

Sub Themes

Self-Acceptance & Confidence
Challenging Beauty Standards
Family Support & Affirmation
Celebrating Difference

Parent-Teacher Guide

Learning Outcome

  • Children will feel affirmed in their appearance, learn to be kind to themselves, and support others in recognizing the beauty in being different.
  • Recognize and reflect on feelings of difference and self-doubt
  • Understand the value of self-acceptance and individuality
  • Develop empathy for others who may feel insecure about their appearance
  • Learn to challenge negative self-image and embrace what makes them unique
  • Appreciate how family support can help build confidence

Activities

  • Mirror Messages: Each child writes one positive thing about their appearance
  • Hair Collage: Create art celebrating diverse hair textures and styles.
  • "I Am Me" Poem: Children write short poems celebrating their uniqueness.

Story Discussion Guide

Before reading

  • Is there something about you that’s different from your friends?
  • What do you like or dislike about how you look?
  • What does it mean to be “unique”?

During reading

  • Ask: Why do you think Faisal wants to change his hair?
  • How does he feel about Grandma visiting?

After reading

  • What does Faisal learn about himself by the end?
  • How did the family support him?
  • Have you ever felt unsure about your appearance? What helped?

Applicable Sustainable Development Goals

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

Encourages emotional well-being and positive self-image.

SDG 5: Gender Equality

Challenges appearance-based biases, especially those impacting boys and girls differently

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

Promotes self-acceptance and celebrates diversity in appearance and identity

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