Big Wig

K-Gr 2--Meet Wig, a sparkling and shiny hair piece owned by B.B. Bedazzle, a young white child with short hair who is only given a pronoun when "she" is in full drag. B.B.'s confidence soars when wearing Wig, and together the duo are planning to compete in a local Big Wig Ball. Upon arrival, B.B. and Wig are in awe of the other competitors' wigs--causing their spirits to deflate. Wig flies off of B.B.'s head, landing on the heads, one by one, of some of the diverse audience members; each person who dons Wig is inspired to pursue their dreams and be a more true version of themselves. Before long, Wig returns to B.B., and the pair earn their prize. The bright, bold illustrations are a major standout. Readers may be confused by some elements of the story, such as the perspective, which shifts from B.B. to Wig throughout, as well as the lack of back matter or information on the art and culture of drag. VERDICT This upbeat, rhyming story will appeal to readers who enjoy playing dress up, even if they are unfamiliar with drag queens or pageants, for its celebratory message of embracing individuality and self-confidence. An additional purchase for larger collections.--Olivia Gorecke, Cape May Cty. Lib., Ocean View, NJ

The fuchsia bouffant wig of a light-skinned child drag queen named B.B. Bedazzle takes the spotlight in this picture book. In rhyming prose, Hillman follows Wig, who feels confident atop B.B.'s head until seeing the more voluminous wigs at the Big Wig Ball, seemingly a contest for young drag queens (with participants of varying skin tone). When Wig flies off of B.B.'s head and onto other kids' pates, each magically feels more confident, and the sentient hairpiece regains self-assurance: "One by one,/ Wig gives them a try./ And all together,/ they help Wig fly!" Though the main takeaway--that Wig is "big enough no matter her size"--feels slightly muddled, the flying wig, portrayed in Hastings's dynamic, vividly hued digital art, entertains. Ages 4-8. (Feb.)