Lessons on Being Tender-headed by Janae Johnson

Janae Johnson explores what it means to be "tender-headed," going beyond the realm of Black hair to uncover the ways we conceal our pain.

Inspired by the world of women’s basketball, Lessons On Being Tender-headed blossoms into a powerful coming-of-age collection, acknowledging Black queer masculinity, emotional healing, and suppressed traumas. Johnson celebrates unique moments like the endurance of an eight-hour hair appointment and the choice to adorn a ponytail. Examining the cultural rituals that sustain us, this collection amplifies an empowering and warm new voice for Black poetry. 

Face and embrace your pain with this tender, unforgettable book.

Called my mother & surrendered
to the evitable. No rescue
from my body becoming
a woman. I mourned myself
as I cried into the phone,
ready to be saved.

Paperback • Ships in 3 days • Also available through Ingram.

Janae Johnson is a writer, cultural worker, and DJ from Sacramento, California. She is the co-founder of poetry venues The House Slam in Boston, and The Root Slam in the Bay Area.