What does it really mean when people call Chicago the “Second City”? For kids growing up in the Windy City, that nickname can sound like a slight—but a new children’s book aims to reframe it as a badge of honor. This November, the fourth installment of Ima Kidd’s Chicago Kidz Iconic Nickname Series hits shelves, and it’s packed with local pride, history, and plenty of deep-dish pizza.
Author Ima Kidd is set to release Second To None: Why Is Chicago Known As The Second City? this November through Kuumba Enterprises LLC and Cultureel Stories. The book uses rhyming verses and vibrant illustrations to showcase the cultural attractions that make Chicago special for both children and adults.
At the heart of the story are The Chicago Kidz, the main characters who take pride in their hometown. The book highlights an array of local offerings—food, entertainment, beaches, parks, sports, museums, architecture, and music—all presented as evidence that the city is truly “Second To None.” Young readers will encounter uniquely Chicago foods like deep-dish and tavern-style pizza, hot dogs and Polish sausages with flavorful toppings, ribs and chicken with special sauces, as well as popcorn and ice cream that were invented right in the city.
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The creative team behind the Ima Kidd pseudonym doesn’t stop at celebration. An appendix digs into the actual history behind Chicago’s “Second City” nickname. One compelling explanation traces the label to a rivalry with New York City, sparked by a writer from NYC who was on assignment in Chicago. The appendix also explores other possibilities, including Chicago’s large population and the city’s dramatic rebuilding after the Great Chicago Fire.
The book targets children ages 3 to 10, along with the adults who read to them. “Our books are great for kids who are learning to read and reading to learn!” Ima Kidd said. “Chicago is full of history and mystery and exploring its iconic nicknames offers an exciting way to learn about the city.”
A “Second To None” music book trailer is also scheduled for release this November. Fans can find all the music book trailers on The Chicago Kidz YouTube Channel: click here!
For those interested in the full series, the www.thechicagokidz.com website offers books about “The Windy City,” “The City That Works,” and “Chiberia” as part of the ongoing iconic nickname series.
Patricia Rogers
Kuumba Enterprises LLC
+1 708-261-6042
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Why it matters: In an era where children’s media often overlooks local history and civic pride, Ima Kidd’s series fills a gap by turning city nicknames into learning tools. For families in Chicago and beyond, these books offer a way to spark conversations about urban identity, resilience, and the stories behind the names we use every day.
