J. Dillard author page

J. Dillard biography

J. Dillard is an American author and master barber recognized for his children’s chapter book series, J.D. the Kid Barber. Drawing from his personal experiences, Dillard crafts stories that highlight themes of entrepreneurship, family, and self-confidence, aiming to inspire young readers.

Originating from Meridian, Mississippi, Dillard began cutting his own hair at the age of ten after experiencing teasing due to a home haircut. By 1999, he had turned his skill into a profession, opening his first barbershop while attending Tuskegee University. His career expanded to include roles as a certified consultant and managing partner at ConAllegiance, a consulting firm based in Atlanta, Georgia.

In 2015, Dillard ventured into writing, initially submitting a story titled “Follow Your Clippers.” Encouraged to develop his ideas further, he created the J.D. the Kid Barber series, which debuted with J.D. and the Great Barber Battle in 2021. The series, illustrated by Akeem S. Roberts, follows eight-year-old J.D. as he navigates the challenges of starting his own barbering business. Subsequent titles include J.D. and the Family Business and J.D. and the Hair Show Showdown.

Dillard’s work has been praised for its positive representation of Black youth and its encouragement of entrepreneurial spirit. The books are published by Kokila, an imprint of Penguin Random House, and have been translated into Spanish to reach a broader audience.