This beautifully illustrated book of black icons that have amazed us throughout history, carefully examines how African Americans gradually conformed their ideas of black beauty to the standards set by early European settlers. The question that author Ben Argogundade asks is “What is black beauty?” (8) His book was written as a guide that presents a better understanding of the history of black aesthetics as a whole. Argogundade boldly examines the controversies people of color experience regarding light-skinned appearances being seen as better than darker skin and Afro hair being seen as “bad hair.” Ben Argundade's parents were Nigerian and he started out as an architect working in London on several building projects. He later became a model and freelance writer by launching an international magazine dedicated to people who lead real lives. Ben argues that “In literary terms, black beauty remains a cause without portfolio” (8). His work pays homage to all the African American role models and famous black celebrities who came before him. Black Beauty discusses some of European history and the influence Europe had on the Western Hemisphere during slavery. The focus is on the aesthetic experience of African descendants, all those who voluntarily emigrated to live within the black diasporas of the West and the United States, while others drifted through the cruelty of slavery. Interestingly, the author notes that mixed children of African descent were not uncommon in European royal families. According to the author's research this has been happening in their culture for centuries. Queen Charlotte Sophia, (1744-1818), has been described throughout history as an unattractive mulatto with...... middle of paper ...... our "free choice" is actually shaped by standards that previous generations have set before us. With the way Ben carefully lays out and traces this historical information and also compares how societies like Asians and Hispanics suffer from the same color caste system, you can't help but become aware of how our perception of beauty has been shaped subliminally by the madness of Hollywood. This book should be recommended not only to people of color, but to anyone studying in the beauty, fashion, or history industries. Reading Black Beauty offers a better understanding of how people of color should see themselves when looking at our history. A story and a celebration have definitely been presented in these artistically glittering pages, so the name defiantly deserves the title because reading this turns into a wonderful celebration for everyone!