Luo, is the story of a 5-year-old girl growing up in Kenya. In the book, Sulwe has the darkest skin color in her family, a fact that makes her uncomfortable and determined to find a way to lighten her skin. As the story unfolds Sulwe embarks on a whimsical adventure in the night sky that, coupled with advice from her mother, helps her see beauty differently. (read more)

Sulwe is what her publisher Simon & Schuster calls a moving book tackling colorism, self-esteem and learning that true, unique beauty comes from within.

Here’s the plot below:

Sulwe has skin the color of midnight. She is darker than everyone in her family. She is darker than anyone in her school. Sulwe just wants to be beautiful and bright, like her mother and sister. Then a magical journey in the night sky opens her eyes and changes everything.

When such a celebrated name and face tackles profound issues, we here at Nevah Black Down jump for joy.  When it comes to the next generation we must all pool our sources and resources to uplift and move our children into understanding that we are beautiful and powerful.  We can love ourselves easily and effortlessly.  We can discard the images forced upon us and love the skin we are in.  Bravo Lupita!!! We believe your magic will shine for decades to come! I (Karen Gibson Roc) as a mother applaud what you have done here!

Nevah Black Down

Illustration by : Vashti Harrison