The Electric Slide and Kai
CCBC Review:
Kai can’t dance well; in fact, he’s the only one in his family who hasn’t earned a dance nickname from his grandpa. His little sister is Baby Bounce, big sister is Miss Boogie, and older brother is D.J. Groove, but Kai’s just Kai. Determined to learn how to dance in time for Aunt Nina’s upcoming wedding, Kai barters with his older sister to convince her to teach him. His older brother and dad add a few pointers, too. Kai practices a lot, but when the wedding comes around and it’s time to step onto the dance floor for the electric slide, he’s still nervous despite his new Uncle Tony’s encouragement. Then he notices that a lot of people out on the dance floor aren’t dancing perfectly—but all of them are having a great time. It’s just the encouragement he needs. Kai does get a nickname from Grandpa (Lil’ Slide), but it’s Kai and his family, who are Black, that provide the story’s greatest delight, with their genuine warmth and humor. ©2022 Cooperative Children’s Book Center
Illustrated by Darnell Johnson
CCBC Age Recommendation: Ages 4-8
Age Range:
PreK-Early Elementary (Ages 4-7)
Grades 3-5 (Ages 8-10)
Format:
Picture book
Subjects:
Affirmation
African Americans
Celebrations, Holidays, and Observances
Dance and Dancers
Families
Humor
Diversity subject:
Black/African
Publisher:
Lee & Low
Publish Year: 2021
Pages: 40
ISBN: 9781643790527
CCBC Location: Picture Book, Baptist