Big things are on the horizon for Jaylene Clark Owens, the award-winning poet, actress, and performer whose words have inspired millions. Best known for her viral spoken word poem “A Black Girl and Her Braids,” Jaylene is now turning that powerful piece into her very first children’s picture book, set to be published by Penguin Random House in January 2026.

A Story That Started with a Poem

What began as a spoken word performance celebrating Black beauty, identity, and empowerment has evolved into a beautifully illustrated story designed to inspire young readers everywhere. A Black Girl and Her Braids honors the relationship many Black girls share with their hair, the care, creativity, and confidence woven into every braid.

The poem struck a chord when Jaylene first performed it, going viral across social media and earning over 6.2 million streams through her spoken word EP A Black Girl and Her Hair. Its heartfelt message now finds new life in book form, inviting children to see themselves reflected in a story full of pride, love, and affirmation.

Bringing Empowerment to the Page

With her debut children’s book, Jaylene aims to bring more authentic and affirming representation to the shelves of young readers. Her hope is that A Black Girl and Her Braids will become not just a book but a movement that encourages self-love, celebrates cultural identity, and reminds every child that their natural beauty is something to be proud of.

This milestone marks an exciting new chapter in Jaylene’s career as she continues to blend her artistry with advocacy. While she is still active on stage and screen, she is now channeling her storytelling talents into literature, reaching children and families in classrooms, libraries, and homes across the country.

Looking Ahead: Inspiring the Next Generation

As Jaylene prepares for her book launch in 2026, she is looking to connect with audiences through live poetry performances and campus events leading up to the release. Her goal is to spread the message of A Black Girl and Her Braids and build momentum through pre-orders with hopes of achieving New York Times Bestseller status.

Colleges and universities have a unique opportunity to bring Jaylene Clark Owens to campus for poetry events that highlight the themes behind her book including empowerment, representation, and self-expression.

Be Part of the Celebration

From viral poetry to children’s publishing, Jaylene Clark Owens continues to prove that her words matter and that storytelling can change the way young readers see themselves and the world around them.

Contact Neon Entertainment to bring Jaylene Clark Owens to your next event and be part of the celebration of A Black Girl and Her Braids, coming January 2026 from Penguin Random House.