J. Dillard

1. Dillard is a master barber, certified consultant, and bestselling children's book author known as the Barberpreneur. Dillard began cutting his own hair at age 10 and later became a professional barber and shop owner while attending Tuskegee University in Alabama. His career spans more than two decades, during which he has traveled internationally as a barberpreneur, teaching classes within the barbering industry and supporting the entrepreneurial efforts of small- to mid-level businesses. Dillard is recognized for making house calls and working with celebrity influencer clients, contributing to the evolving landscape of the barber industry.

Dillard's journey to authorship was influenced by a formative childhood experience. He is the author of the semi-autobiographical children's book series "J.D. the Kid Barber," which includes "J.D. and the Great Barber Battle," "J.D. and the Family Business," and "J.D. and the Hair Show Showdown." Like the main character in his books, Dillard's barbering career began at a young age after his mother's haircut attempts led to bullying at school. He first submitted the story "Follow Your Clippers" to a publisher, which prompted him to further develop his writing. This effort resulted in the first book in the "J.D. the Kid Barber" series and a publishing deal with a Penguin Random House imprint.

The series follows J.D., an 8-year-old barber who explores themes of hair, beauty, identity, family, health, and finance in illustrated chapter books for young readers. "J.D. and the Great Barber Battle" received critical acclaim and institutional recognition, including honors from New York Public Library, Chicago Public Library, School Library Journal, the Texas Bluebonnet Award Master List, and the NCTE Charlotte Huck Award. Kirkus Reviews described it as "a surefire win of a read expressly made for young Black boys to cherish."

As a motivational speaker, lecturer, educator, business advisor, author, and master barber, Dillard works to influence professional barbers through his inventive approach and dedication to the industry. He integrates personal experiences and life lessons with humor to inspire and instill values in children through his books. The "J.D. the Kid Barber" series is available in Spanish editions and continues to expand its reach. For Dillard, the mantra "Follow Your Clippers" represents the philosophy that transformed a childhood challenge into a lasting literary and entrepreneurial legacy in the barbering and children's literature fields.