Ima Kidd’s new Chicago children’s book set for November release

The fourth book in Ima Kidd’s Chicago Kidz Iconic Nickname Series is due out in November from Kuumba Enterprises LLC and Cultureel Stories. The book uses rhyme and illustrations to teach young readers why Chicago is called the Second City and celebrate the city’s food, landmarks, and culture.

Why it matters: - The new book is aimed at children ages 3-10 and the adults who read with them. - The release adds another entry to a series built around Chicago’s nicknames and civic identity. - The book is designed to support early reading while introducing local history and culture.

What happened: - Ima Kidd will release Second To None: Why Is Chicago Known As The Second City? this November. - Kuumba Enterprises LLC and Cultureel Stories are publishing the fourth book in the Chicago Kidz Iconic Nickname Series. - The book uses rhyming verses and colorful illustrations to present Chicago’s attractions and traditions.

The details: - The Chicago Kidz are the main characters. - The story highlights Chicago food, entertainment, beaches, parks, sports, museums, architecture and music. - The book points to signature Chicago foods including deep-dish pizza, tavern-style pizza, hot dogs, Polish sausages, ribs, chicken, popcorn and ice cream. - The appendix explains the history behind Chicago’s “Second City” nickname. - A New York City writer assigned in Chicago helped prompt the rivalry that informed the nickname. - The appendix also discusses other explanations, including Chicago’s large population and the city’s rebuilding after a major fire.

Between the lines: - The series blends entertainment with local history, making the book both a picture book and a city primer. - The nickname framing gives the book a built-in educational angle for parents, teachers and young readers. - Ima Kidd said the books are meant for children who are learning to read and reading to learn.

What’s next: - A Second To None music book trailer is also set to release in November. - The Chicago Kidz YouTube Channel will host the trailer alongside other music book trailers. - Thechicagokidz.com also features other titles in the iconic nickname series, including books about “The Windy City,” “The City That Works” and “Chiberia.” - More information is available at The Chicago Kidz website.