Book details
Nikki and Deja: Nikki and Deja, Book One (Nikki and Deja, 1)
Description
Meet Nikki and Deja, who live next door to each other and are best friends. They do everything together—watch Saturday morning cartoons, play jacks, jump double Dutch at recess, and help each other with their homework for Mrs. Shelby's third-grade class. But when an arrogant new girl arrives and Nikki and Deja form a club that would exclude her, the results are not what they expect. This warm, easy-to-read chapter book from an award-winning author captures all the joys and complexities of elementary school life—particularly friendships and cliques—with finesse and humor.
Age
4-7
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
80 pages
Book in series
#1
Why to read
- Relatable Characters: The book features Nikki and Deja, two African American third-graders who are best friends. Their experiences, challenges, and adventures are relatable to many young readers, making it easier for them to connect with the characters and learn from their stories.
- Important Life Lessons: 'Nikki and Deja: Nikki and Deja, Book One' addresses themes such as friendship, community, and dealing with conflicts. Reading this book can help young readers navigate their own social experiences and learn valuable lessons about empathy, problem-solving, and the importance of communication.
- Cultural Representation: The book provides representation for young African American readers, offering them a chance to see themselves in literature. This can be empowering and affirming, and it promotes diversity in children's literature.
- Engaging Storytelling: Karen English is known for her engaging and accessible writing style. The story of Nikki and Deja is both entertaining and educational, keeping readers engaged while also prompting them to think about the situations and decisions the characters face.