Japanese American Gigi reflects on her own name after explaining to her grandfather, Ojiji, how she chose Roscoe as their dog’s name. As a little girl, Gigi couldn’t pronounce Geraldine, but now wonders if she’s ready to give up the juvenile nickname. Her grandfather likes her middle name, Hanako, which is easier for him to pronounce, and Gigi is delighted to learn how to write it in Japanese characters. Realistic dialog and warm illustrations center this thoughtful, age-appropriate text about name and identity that sees Gigi coming full circle regarding her own thoughts about what she wants to be called in a story that includes a limited glossary of Japanese words. (Ages 4–8)

"Gigi crafts her Japanese American identity in this enchanting early reader. The cuteness, inclusivity, and cross-cultural problem-solving represented will have young readers coming back again and again. A must-buy." —School Library Journal (starred review)

"The text is well supported by the endearing illustrations, which capture all of Gigi’s big emotions and depict her as a biracial child, with a white father and Japanese mother." —Booklist (starred review)

"An affirming option in the quickly diversifying field of early-reader books." —Kirkus

Gigi, a biracial six-year-old girl, learns about her Japanese culture from her grandfather when he comes to visit. Perfect for social emotional learning.

Gigi can’t wait for her Ojiji—Japanese grandpa—to move in. Gigi plans lots of things to do with him, like playing tag, reading books, and teaching Roscoe, the family dog, new tricks.

But her plans don’t work out quite the way she’d hoped. And her grandpa doesn’t seem to like Roscoe. Will Gigi find a way to connect with her Ojiji?

This exciting new I Can Read series is brought to you by author-illustrator Melissa Iwai, whose popular books include Soup Day and Dumplings for Lili.

Gigi and Ojiji is a Level Three I Can Read book. Level 3 includes many fun subjects kids love to read about on their own. Themes include friendship, adventure, historical fiction, and science. Level 3 books are written for early independent readers. They include some challenging words and more complex themes and stories. The story contains several Japanese words and a glossary of definitions and pronunciations.

Acclaim for Gigi and Ojiji:

A 2023 Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor title

El día de los niños, el día de los libros selection 2023

ALSC Notable 2023

CBC Teacher and Librarian Favorites Award 2023

A Bank Street Best Children's Book of the Year in the 5-9 beginning reader category! (2023)