Netflix to Adapt Lupita Nyong’o Children’s Book ‘Sulwe’ into an Animated Musical

Sulwe, a children’s book written by Academy award-winning actress Lupita and illustrated by Vashti Harrison, is getting animated for Netflix.

The international streamer announced the news stating, “We’re so excited to announce SULWE, the animated musical, is coming to Netflix! Based off of Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o’s New York Times bestselling book, SULWE tells the story of a young girl born “the color of midnight” who learns to embrace her inner and outer beauty.” (SIC)

We’re so excited to announce SULWE, the animated musical, is coming to Netflix! Based off of Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o’s New York Times bestselling book, SULWE tells the story of a young girl born “the color of midnight” who learns to embrace her inner and outer beauty. pic.twitter.com/jv9ENBfAuu

— Strong Black Lead (@strongblacklead) February 18, 2021

Sulwe was written as a response to colourism. In her debut post about the book in 2019 Lupita wrote. “I wrote #Sulwe to encourage children (and everyone really!) to love the skin they are in and see the beauty that radiates from within.”

Sulwe is going to be an animated movie!! ?✨?Thank you to the readers of all ages who have joined #Sulwe on her starry ride. I’m so excited for this next adventure on @Netflix! ? #BrightnessIsJustWhoYouAre pic.twitter.com/AmHeC5G9KV

— Lupita Nyong'o (@Lupita_Nyongo) February 18, 2021

Netflix is yet to share the production or tentative release date for the musical.

Sulwe is available for purchase in Kenya in three languages; English, Kiswahili and Dhuluo.