Halima, Superhero Princess by Emily Joof (author) and Asa Gilland (illustrator)

Halima can’t decide who to dress up as for her friend’s birthday party. Should she be a princess like Elsa, or a sort-of superhero like Pippi Longstocking? “You can’t be either,” her friends tell her, “because you don’t look like them.”

Halima decides she doesn’t want to go to the party any more. What’s the point if she can’t be one of her heroes? Until Mama says Halima can be whoever she wants to be, and together they discover some of the strong, brave women who could inspire her. Can Halima regain her confidence and discover her inner superhero princess?

Heartfelt and uplifting, this empowering story from African-diaspora mother Emily Joof encourages confidence, pride and self-expression in young readers, and introduce them to inspiring women of colour from around the world. Asa Gilland’s vibrant and engaging illustrations are full of texture, expression and fun.