Cheesesteaks and Clippers: The barbershop where you can learn about you, me and we!

As a father of two young Black boys, I am in constant pursuit of books that speak to the lived experiences of young men or color, and I hit the jackpot with Cheesesteaks and Clippers. Barbershops are longstanding fixtures of the community where young men develop identities of self, learn life lessons from elders, engage in compelling conversations, and can be their authentic selves. The uniqueness of the book is that the story/writing is not only appealing and narrated by a young boy who could be my son, but is coupled with engaging illustrations that will capture the imagination and curiosity of all of those who read it. The time honored tradition of sitting in the barbershop and all that occurs before and after being called to the chair is encapsulated in this book. Moreover, with the persistence of anti-black sentiments pervasive in the country, this book is a salient reminder that there are sanctuaries such as the barbershop where young boys of color know they matter and that within these spaces there are people who will affirm their humanity. Author Tre Hadrick and Illustrator Cameron Wilson deserve high praise for this work.

Inspired by the author’s real experiences, Ernest “Tre” Hadrick lll wrote a “slice of life” children’s book that stresses the importance of community role models for young boys. In his first book, “Cheesesteaks & Clippers,” the main character, Ernesto, who happens to be Tre’s son, learns important life lessons while waiting for his biweekly haircut in the neighborhood barber shop. One can imagine that the story sticks pretty close to actual events, as most first books are usually autobiographical fiction, memoir, or a combination of the two. Having spent some time talking to the author, I will take a line from his book to describe who he is and what this book is about: “Stand for something or fall for everything.” Tre lives those words. We are so fortunate to have Tre as a voice for the nonprofit organization, Teach My Kid to Read, spearheading literacy initiatives in his community. “It takes a village,” and I couldn’t be more pleased to share my enthusiasm for his work, which is showcased in this heartwarming story.

Loved it! Perfect for the kiddos!

My daughter thought this book was hilarious and my nephew loved that the little boy Nesto looked like him. I’m grateful to add this book to my collection in my school library. It is so important for children to see themselves in books. Especially in a book like this that teaches values, history, and a love for people of every generation. This elementary teacher approves!

This is a book that both kids and parents will enjoy. Good story for the kids and a good read for the parents that will take many down memory lane.

It is a fun kids book, especially because it is written about my home town.

Excellent book it's a must have!! Get your child, grandchild, niece or nephew, cousin, sibling, god child... one today!!!

A great read, insightful, youthful look at all barbershops in our community, my grandchildren enjoyed reading and definitely related to it.