Lupita Nyong’o and Netflix just announced they are developing Lupita’s children’s book Sulwe into an animated musical special. The book addresses colorism through the adventures of Sulwe, a girl with skin darker than anyone she knows.

Sulwe is visited by a shooting star that shares the story of sisters Night and Day. The book’s illustrations are by Vashti Harrison. Here’s a lovely reading of the book by Lupita herself for the series Bookmarks:

Via Deadline, the native of Kenya said:

The story of Sulwe is one that is very close to my heart. 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.

What an uplifting and charming idea for a musical! We’ll keep you posted as the story develops.

Image: YouTube / Netflix Jr.