Reviews with content warning for Sexual content - Wash Day Diaries

Black women have always taken pride and joy in the versatility of our hair. From natural afros, perms, braids of all styles, twists and so many more. The styling of a black woman’s hair has been the catalyst of us showing our personalities, fashion, creativity, and black girl magic. So how befitting that we receive a graphic novel to publicly display the beauty within just a portion that describes black women.

Wash Day Diaries is a graphic novel written by Jamila Rowser and illustrated by Robyn Smith. The story follows four best friends living in Bronx, NY and how they not only navigate their everyday lives but most importantly, their hair routines. Following the theme of friendship and love, our main characters Kim, Tanisha, Davine, and Cookie support each other through everyday obstacles such as facing family trauma, battling mental health, gossiping over their dating lives and even setting boundaries for those who served seasonal purposes in our lives. Wash Day Diaries was truly in ode to the experiences of black women.

This was my first graphic novel read ever and I can truly say that I more than thoroughly enjoyed reading it. Following our four main characters on their different journeys as black women from across the diaspora was heartfelt, emotional and refreshing. It was amazing to consume such a fluffy novel. The illustrations in this novel were definitely the highlight of the experience. To see the techniques of a variety of black hair styles such as braids, wigs and roller sets be illustrated so beautifully practically healed my young inner black girl.

I highly recommend this graphic novel for anyone looking for a heartfelt laugh and a feel good read. Once again, a true nod to black women and our creativity. Even when it comes to our beautiful and amazing hair!

Content Warnings

emzhay's review against another edition

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emotional funny hopeful lighthearted reflective

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? N/A
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

4.75

Content Warnings

booksdogsandcoffee's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful informative inspiring reflective fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

This book shows the detail and care that goes into black and brown hair care. Along with a wonderful story about the daily lives of four friends through their ups and downs in life. Their heartaches, depression, and joy. This graphic novel was an absolute must read for everyone

Cw
Depression
Mild sexual content
Toxic relationship
Biphobia

Content Warnings

thatenbyisisreads's review against another edition

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emotional funny lighthearted reflective relaxing fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? N/A
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

I definitely related a lot to Davene's depression, they did very well in illustrating how debilitating it can be. Cookie was also another character that I related to with her being Boriqua, and her usage of the citrine crystal, it's my go to so shoutout to you girl. Overall, this group of girlfriends were so cute, funny, and wholesome! The color scheme was fantastic, this is a must read! <3

Content Warnings

aishallnot's review against another edition

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funny inspiring lighthearted fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

(Read for Taking It Easy Storygraph challenge Prompt 15: Graphic Novel)

4.5/5 stars

This was a cute graphic novel with Black sisterhood/friendship. I loved the color palette choice for the stories as they were so beautifully done. I also liked how this tackled themes such as mental health (and how that impacts our self care routine especially with hair), self-love, and acceptance within familial relationships. I do wish that some of the stories were a bit longer, but I did like the ending. I think this would be a great series whether that's through this style or a mini TV series

Content Warnings

ksuazo94's review against another edition

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emotional funny hopeful inspiring reflective fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

Content Warnings

robinks's review against another edition

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emotional lighthearted fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.75

I LOVED the characters and their friendships. This book also speaks about a bunch of different topics without being overwhelming.

As a therapist, my only critique is that I wish antidepressants were not immediately dismissed in Davene’s storyline, though I think the way Cookie came around later was helpful.

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