Description

J. D. and the Family Business 

In this delightful illustrated chapter book, we meet J.D., an eight-year-old haircut prodigy who has already made a name for himself as a barber battle champion. Having transitioned from giving haircuts at home to securing a regular spot at the bustling Hart and Son barbershop, J.D. is not just cutting hair; he’s building a small empire. With his candy jar brimming and comic book collection expanding, he feels the thrill of success but also senses that he’s ready for a new adventure. His aspirations soar beyond the confines of his neighborhood; he dreams of becoming the finest barber not just in Meridian, Mississippi, but potentially across the entire nation.

As fate would have it, J.D.’s older sister, Vanessa, is carving out her niche in the beauty world, gaining online traction with her engaging hair tutorials. Recognizing the potential of their combined talents, the siblings decide to collaborate, believing that together they can elevate their ambitions to new heights. However, the path to success is not without its challenges. With their vibrant personalities and competitive natures, J.D. and Vanessa must navigate the complexities of sibling dynamics while striving to dominate the hair industry. Their journey is filled with laughter, creativity, and the occasional clash of wills, making for an entertaining and relatable tale.

This chapter book is a follow-up to the beloved “J.D. and the Great Barber Battle,” and it promises to captivate readers with its humor and heart. As J.D. and Vanessa embark on their quest to conquer the hair world, they learn valuable lessons about teamwork, ambition, and the importance of family. The story is not just about haircuts and tutorials; it’s a celebration of dreams, sibling bonds, and the joy of pursuing one’s passions. Readers will be eager to see how these two young entrepreneurs navigate their way through the ups and downs of their hair-raising adventure.

J.Dillard 

J. Dillard affectionately referred to as the “Barberpreneur,” has carved out a remarkable niche for himself in the world of grooming. His journey began at the tender age of ten when he first picked up a pair of clippers to style his hair. Fast forward to 1999, he transitioned from a passionate hobbyist to a professional barber, all while pursuing his education at Tuskegee University in Alabama.

His entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly as he opened his barbershop, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the industry. Now, he travels across the nation, providing personal barbering services to his clients, with Atlanta proudly serving as his home base. This venture into writing marks his inaugural book series aimed at children, showcasing his commitment to inspiring the next generation.

Akeem S. Roberts is a talented illustrator who calls Brooklyn home, where he brings his artistic vision to life. As an in-house animator for Holler Studios, he infuses creativity into various projects, while also sharing his unique perspective through regular contributions to The New Yorker. Akeem’s academic journey led him to the University of South Carolina, where he honed his skills and developed a keen eye for detail.

Outside of his professional commitments, he channels his creativity into making comics that reflect his everyday experiences, sharing them with a wider audience on Instagram under the handle @AkeemTeam. His work not only entertains but also resonates with many, capturing the essence of daily life in a humorous and relatable way.

Together, J. Dillard and Akeem S. Roberts represent a dynamic collaboration that blends the worlds of barbering and illustration. Dillard’s expertise in grooming and his passion for storytelling come together in his children’s book series, while Roberts’ artistic flair adds a vibrant visual dimension to the narrative. This partnership not only highlights their talents but emphasizes the importance of mentorship and creativity in shaping young minds. As they embark on this journey, they aim to inspire children to embrace their uniqueness and explore their creative paths, fostering a sense of confidence and self-expression that will last a lifetime.