Lupita Nyong’o’s debut children’s book will serve as the inspiration for an upcoming animated musical at Netflix. Deadline confirmed that the Oscar-winning actor’s New York Times bestseller, “Sulwe,” is being adapted by the streamer. No word on who will write or direct the pic about colorism and self-love.
Published in 2019, “Sulwe” is illustrated by Vashti Harrison. The book follows Sulwe, “a child who has skin darker than anyone she knows (‘Sulwe was born the color of midnight,’ the book begins) — and all she wants is to be beautiful and bright. One night, she is visited by a shooting star sent by the Night and embarks on a magical journey where she learns the eye-opening story of the sisters Night and Day. The book tells a story about colorism, self-esteem, and learning that true beauty comes from within,” the source details.
“The story of Sulwe is one that is very close to my heart,” said Nyong’o. “Growing up, I was uncomfortable in my dark skin. I rarely saw anyone who looked like me in the aspirational pages of books and magazines, or even on TV. It was a long journey for me to arrive at self-love. ‘Sulwe’ is a mirror for dark-skinned children to see themselves, a window for those who may not be familiar with colorism, to have understanding and empathy, and an invitation for all who feel different and unseen to recognize their innate beauty and value. I am thrilled that the book is being adapted into an animated musical that we hope inspires children all around the world to celebrate their uniqueness,” she emphasized.
“Sulwe” and Netflix have a history. Nyong’o read the book on “Bookmarks,” a show from the streamer that sees Black public figures reading children’s books from Black authors.
Nyong’o won the Best Supporting Actress Oscar in 2014 for “12 Years a Slave” and has since gone on to star in films such as “Us,” “Black Panther,” and “Queen of Katwe.” Her upcoming slate includes “The 355,” a spy thriller with Jessica Chastain, Penélope Cruz, Diane Kruger, and Fan Bingbing.
