Black Barbie, by London-based animator and illustrator Comfort Arthur, is the picture book adaptation of her award winning animated short film by the same name.

Voiced by British-Ghanaian actress, television presenter and producer Ama K. Abebrese, the story grew out of the filmmaker’s own experience with the use of relaxers and skin bleaching products while growing up in the U.K.

After debuting in 2016, Black Barbie became an international sensation, screened at various film festivals in over 50 countries and winning numerous awards, including Best Animated Film at the Ghana Movie Awards and Best Spoke Word Film at the Realtime Film Festival in Lagos, Nigeria.

With powerful moments of sadness, humor and introspection, Black Barbie explores the artist’s personal journey toward self-acceptance, empowerment and loving the skin she’s in.

While intended to be a great catalyst for discussion for children of all background, in the words of Dr. Tyner, “This powerful book reminds every young Black woman that you are more than enough. You are the standard of beauty, with your glowing melanin skin, the intricacy of your precious locks, and the vibrancy of Black Girl Magic that fills every room that you enter.”