Bronx-born, Harlem-raised SAG Award-winning actress and author Tanya Wright debuted her first children’s book, The Great Birthday Surprise!, on September 2. The book marks the beginning of her new Hairiette of Harlem series, aimed at children ages 6–11, blending magic, friendship, and the vibrant spirit of New York City.
Best known for her roles on Orange is the New Black and True Blood, Wright turned her attention from Hollywood to literacy after witnessing the profound struggles children faced during the pandemic. Determined to inspire young readers, she enrolled in the Harvard Graduate School of Education, developing both a literacy program and a character designed to engage and delight children while encouraging reading.
Out of that work came Hairiette, a spirited little girl from Harlem with sparkly hair and a vivid imagination. In The Great Birthday Surprise!, Hairiette eagerly anticipates receiving a bike for her seventh birthday, only to be given a simple barrette and comb instead. Using her imagination, Hairiette discovers My Magic Nation, a fantastical world where thoughts come to life, hair accessories spring into action, and every day becomes a celebration of creativity.
The story has been praised for its relatability and subtle life lessons, with School Library Journal noting, “First-person point of view makes it easy for readers to relate to Hairiette’s ups and downs…and little lessons are discreetly hidden in the text. Young readers will enjoy this story and look forward to the next installment.”
Illustrated by Ashley Evans, whose dynamic and colorful work brings Hairiette’s magical adventures to life, the book combines playful visuals with empowering storytelling. The collaboration between Wright and Evans ensures that young readers are transported into Hairiette’s lively world while learning to embrace their own creativity.
Wright, who earned both the Harvard Innovative Venture in Education Award and the Education Entrepreneurship Fellowship for Hairiette, continues to live in Boston while using her platform to advocate for literacy and representation in children’s literature.