Inked Picture Books: Tattoos in Literature for the Very Young
Although tattooing has a long history imbued with cultural significance, for much of the last century in America sporting a tattoo was most often associated with sailors, pirates, circus performers, bikers, punks, and other “unsavory” types. Today tattoos are more commonplace and have lost much of their social stigma. Sadly there still remains a great void in their representation among books for the very young and, in the few instances when they do crop up many of these depictions still carry a lot these old stereotypes. Below are some books aimed at young readers that include updated portrayals of tattoos—worn by average people going about their lives who have embraced this form of self expression and made it the ever-growing art form it is today.
Fry Bread
by Kevin Noble Maillard, illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal
A loving celebration of this popular food and the significance it has in many Native cultures. Fry bread is many things—food, flavor, time, art, history, cultural identity. Seminole symbols greet us from Father’s wrist as he prepares the meal in a skillet. Auntie’s affectionate embrace sports beautiful flowers upon one arm. Representing the beauty, and physical diversity of indigenous peoples, Fry Bread satisfies more than just hunger by providing much needed cultural sustenance.God Got A Dog
by Cynthia Rylant, illustrated by Marla Frazee
What if God decided to pay the world a visit? What sorts of experiences would He have? How would She feel? What would it be like to go to beauty school or ride in a boat or go to the doctor if you’re God? Rylant’s free verse poetry accompanied by Frazee’s distinctive drawings explore the possibilities of what it feels like to be human and both the beauties and disappointments of life. Be sure to look for God’s tattoo!Hair Love
by Matthew A. Cherry, illustrated by Vashti Harrison
Zuri’s hair is beautiful but it has a mind of its own. Whether as a princess wearing funky braids with beads, or as a superhero sporting Afro puffs, there is nothing her hair can’t do. Because this day is a special one, Zuri needs an equally special hairstyle that calls for the “professional” touch only Daddy can provide. Vibrant artwork accompanies this heartfelt family story in a satisfying celebration of self acceptance, appreciation and pride. Simply lovely.Mama Needs A Minute
by Nicole Sloan
Truer words were never spoken, as any caregiver to the young will attest to. Whether teaching the ABCs, making pancakes, or simply getting dressed, moms are super busy people who sometimes just need a timeout. A variety of mothers, some tattooed some not, accomplish a variety of things with their little ones in this endearing board book. A gentle reminder that in order to care for someone else one must also care for themself.Nana Akua Goes To School
by Tricia Elam Walker, illustrated by April Harrison
To celebrate Grandparents’ Day, everyone in Zura’s class has invited a grandparent to school to share what makes each of them special. Although Nana Akua is her favorite person in the whole universe, Zura is afraid to invite her, remembering a time at the park when people were scared of the tribal markings on Nana’s face. Through loving conversation and careful thinking Nana Akua wisely devises a way to educate others about this disappearing Ghanian practice. Walker pays homage to several Ashanti traditions, while Harrison’s colorful illustrations incorporate Adinkra symbols and their meanings into this intergenerational story of love and cultural pride.The Neighbors
by Einat Tsarfati
A young girl lives on the top floor of an apartment building that is seven stories high. As she makes her daily trip home we see a variety of doors belonging to each of her neighbors and catch a glimpse of their lives. So, yes, this does contain stereotyped tats on the arms of our pirate neighbor (boo!), but as recompense there is a lot of body art adorning the family of acrobats who live behind the red door including their live-in elephant (yay!).
Someone Builds The Dream
by Lisa Wheeler, illustrated by Loren Long
Anything created, whether it be a playground, shopping center, or a picture book starts out as an idea—a dream its creator has. An architect designing a house to be constructed by a building crew. An engineer working through the math to create a bridge. A tattooed father working in construction who reads to his son at the end of the day. All across our world things are only possible with the hard work and dedication of many people coming together to turn those dreams into reality.Tell Me A Tattoo Story
by Alison McGhee, illustrated by Eliza Wheeler
In this affirmation of love from parent to child, a father tells his son the stories behind each of his tattoos and the special meanings they hold for him. Wheeler’s captivating illustrations tell much of the story while perfectly complementing McGhee’s sparse dialogue. An accurate, matter-of-fact representation of body art that is sure to strike a chord with many families.
