Rapunzella, Or, Don't Touch My Hair

In Ella McLeod's debut novel, Rapunzella, a teenager navigates between her inner-city life and a fairytale universe. With the help of her hair salon and her dreams, she seeks to change the future and embrace her power as a young woman. The book blends poetry and prose in a lyrical and honest exploration of identity and possibility.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 432 pages
Publication date: 07 July 2022
Publisher: Scholastic

A captivating YA novel that seamlessly blends inner-city life with a fantastical fairytale realm, "United by Pop" is a genre-defying masterpiece. Set in the enchanting forest created from Rapunzel's Afro, the story revolves around the young heroine, Rapunzella, who finds herself imprisoned under the seemingly invincible rule of the evil King Charming. However, is all hope lost? Can Rapunzella harness her newfound power to shape the future?

Fifteen-year-old Rapunzella divides her time between school and Val's hair salon, where she spends quality time with Baker, Val's son, whose eyes are like a breathtaking cliff descent into space. The salon serves as a sanctuary of safety and possibility, nurturing dreams of hair that exudes richness and vitality, transforming into a sprawling wilderness filled with towering trees, vibrant leaves, and a multitude of hidden creatures that thrive in such a magical environment.

"United by Pop" is a groundbreaking debut by Ella McLeod, a spoken word poet and actor, who skillfully intertwines poetry and prose in a breathtakingly lyrical and profoundly honest exploration of a teenager's journey into her power as a young woman. With a bold and fresh voice in YA fiction, Ella McLeod has already made a significant impact on the literary world. Fans of Elizabeth Acevedo, Dean Atta, and Kalynn Bayron will find much to admire in this captivating tale.

In addition to celebrating the beauty of Black hair, "United by Pop" is a vibrant celebration of identity and self-discovery. Rapunzella's journey is filled with challenges and triumphs, as she navigates the complexities of growing up, embracing her uniqueness, and finding her place in the world. Through her courage, resilience, and unwavering determination, Rapunzella inspires readers to embrace their own identities and pursue their dreams, no matter how unconventional they may seem.

"United by Pop" is a must-read for anyone who loves YA fiction, fairy tales, or stories that explore the power of self-love and empowerment. With its rich imagery, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes, this novel offers a captivating and unforgettable experience that will leave readers eagerly anticipating Ella McLeod's future works.

Weight: 292g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780702313868