Chichi and Didi Love Their Names

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.

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 

Although most people now know Peace Amadi by her middle name, her first name is Chinyere and she is the real-life Chichi. Peace is a psychology professor, author, and speaker, and her work lies at the intersection of mental health, faith, and culture. 

Ndidi Amadi is the real-life Didi and has grown up to become a lawyer, educator, philanthropist and artist. Ndidi’s passion lies in supporting and creating equitable opportunities for underserved communities.

Hayley Blackwood is a children's book illustrator and character designer from rural North Carolina. Hayley has a degree in animation and is on a mission to bring more empathy, inclusion, and light to children through her artwork.