Chichi and Didi Love Their Names

Chichi and Didi Love Their Names

About the Book

Perfect for back-to-school, this empowering and joyous picture book shows kids the importance of loving your name, having pride in your culture, and standing up for yourself.

“As a proud Nigerian, whose full name is Yvonne Anwuli Adaeze Orji, which means ‘Archer of happiness, daughter of a king, strong oak,’ I love the messaging of this book!”—Yvonne Orji, actress, comedian, and author

Nigerian American sisters Chichi and Didi are ready for the first day of school! But after Chichi is teased for her “different” name, she comes home feeling discouraged.

Daddy and Mama tell the sisters the stories behind their names, helping Chichi return to school with her head held high.

Inspired by the childhood experiences of real-life sisters Peace Amadi and Ndidi Amadi, Chichi and Didi Love Their Names will teach readers:
  • to be curious about the origin and meanings of their own names
  • the importance of identity and saying names correctly
  • the beauty in celebrating difference and taking pride in uniqueness
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Praise for Chichi and Didi Love Their Names

“As a proud Nigerian, whose full name is Yvonne Anwuli Adaeze Orji, which means ‘archer of happiness, daughter of a king, strong oak,’ I love the messaging of this book! It promotes acceptance among children as well as pride and love for one’s heritage and culture.”—Yvonne Orji, actress, comedian, and author

“This book is a beautiful celebration of family-love and self-love. It’s a story that resonates at any age because learning to embrace the parts of ourselves the world hasn’t always clapped for is a lifelong journey. The characters are grounded, the storytelling is full of heart, and every page is a joy. I’m so glad this book exists to help children everywhere feel seen, affirmed, and proud of who they are.”—Stacy Ike, journalist, media entrepreneur, and host of the human2human podcast

“This book is both unique to the Nigerian American experience and familiar to anyone who has had to navigate having a non-English name and growing up in a community that is different than their family’s country of origin. It speaks to the fear and uncomfortableness of being different but also embraces the value of being proud of one’s culture. It is a must-have for every child’s bookshelf!”—Junior Ezeonu, city council deputy mayor pro tem of Grand Prairie, Texas
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About the Author

Peace Amadi
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About the Author

Ndidi Amadi
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About the Author

Hayley Blackwood
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