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Black Dolls Vol. 1

A YA graphic novel about figuring out your identity in a world that tries to define you

Rachel Faturoti, Author

Flo Woolley, Illustrator

Imprint: Orion Children's Books

Publication date: July 24, 2025

Category: Graphic Novels

ISBN: 9781510113084

A kick-ass graphic novel about an all-Black female pop-punk band and the epic battle they face at Clash of the Bands. For fans of Heartstopper and Josie and the Pussycats! Packed with humour and strong female attitude as four Black teens demand their spotlight.

Girl power with a modern twist… warning, this book may inspire readers to pick up a guitar and belt out their favourite angsty tune – The Irish Examiner

Band founder, Jada has always dreamed of tearing up the music industry rules – she’ll fight anyone or anything who says otherwise. So when auditions open for Clash of the Bands, she forms Black Dolls. Influencer Sassy is lead vocals; Silvee’s a killer bassist; Dina, an ex-child star who hates the cameras is on guitar, and Jada, self-proclaimed rhythm legend is on drums and vocals.

But band life is continual drama and everyone’s got their secrets. Black Dolls battle each other, overbearing families, identity questions and media exploitation, trying to keep their dream alive.

Can Black Dolls overcome their differences and take the world by storm? Or will they crash and burn before they skyrocket . . .

For fans of heartfelt graphic novels and the kick-ass rock of We Are Lady Parts!

Reviews

Girl power with a modern twist...warning, this book may inspire readers to pick up a guitar and belt out their favourite angsty tune

The Irish Examiner

Girl power with a modern twist... warning, this book may inspire readers to pick up a guitar and belt out their favourite angsty tune

The Irish Examiner

Rachel Faturoti

Rachel Faturoti is a YA and children’s fiction writer, editor, and poet with a passion for broadening the scope of authentic Black representation in YA and children’s fiction. She believes it’s important for readers to see themselves represented well in stories. Rachel’s favourite books are Skellig, Coraline and A Monster Calls.