The Braid Girls

The Braid Girls is a heartfelt and engaging story of friendship, family, and resilience by Sherri Winston. The novel explores the intertwining lives of three young girls navigating complex relationships and personal goals during a transformative summer.

Maggie is excited about her summer plans with her best friend Daija to run a hair-braiding business for kids in their neighborhood. But her life takes an unexpected turn when she learns she has a half-sister, Callie, the product of a secret her father kept. Despite the upheaval, Maggie is determined not to let her newfound sister derail her dreams.

Daija treasures her bond with Maggie, considering her more like a sister. She's driven to make their business a success to fund extra ballet lessons, hoping to go en pointe and secure a spot in the fall showcase. For Daija, succeeding in dance is her way of finally earning her father's attention and approval.

Callie, still mourning her mother's death, is grappling with leaving her life in the Bahamas behind to live with her father and his family. Joining Maggie and Daija in their business becomes her opportunity to connect, show her talents, and find a sense of belonging.

The trio launches their Braid Girls business at a local summer camp, drawing in a steady stream of eager customers with locks. However, their success is challenged when Angela, a rival, sets up a competing braiding service, the Sistahs Who Braid. As competition heats up, the girls must navigate jealousy, misunderstandings, and teamwork, learning valuable lessons about trust, acceptance, and perseverance.

Packed with humor, heart, and cultural richness, The Braid Girls celebrates the bonds of sisterhood and the beauty of finding strength in unity.