Nikki and Deja: Nikki and Deja, Book One

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.

"Accesible writing, authentic characters, an easy-to-identify-with plot and Freeman's appealing black-and-white illustrations come together smoothly in this straightforward friendship tale." - Kirkus Reviews

"In her first chapter book, English perceptively explores the undercurrent of insecurity and rivalry that threatens two African-American girls' friendship." - Publishers Weekly