Kika the Upside-Down Girl - 3rd Edition by Jessica Tudos (Hardcover)

About the Book

Kika loves being upside-down rather than right side-up. With humour and fun, author and former Olympic gymnast Jessica Tudos inspires kids to pursue their dreams and find their unique place in the world in any direction they choose.

Book Synopsis

Kika the Upside-Down Girl is a whimsical story about an adventurous young girl who discovers that she's different from most other kids - she LOVES exploring the world upside-down despite the pressure she feels to stay right side-up.

Whether getting dressed, reading a book hanging from a tree, or walking to school on her hands, Kika's upside-down escapades are freeing and fun.

In a world of normal, Kika dares to see it differently, much to the exasperation of her parents and teachers, who urge her to be more like the other kids.

Kika struggles to find her place until she finds acceptance and joy at a fliptastic place, The Gymnastics Emporium. With never-ending handstands, somersaults, and giant swings, this is where Kika feels at home and can share her special gifts with the world.

"Kids like me, just love to be free, upside-down, filled with glee! (Kika's theme song)

Inspired by the author's own Olympic gymnastics journey, Kika's story shows us shows us, firsthand, what it takes to overcome uncertainty to find success both in and out of sport. Kids and adults alike will identify with, and delight in, Kika's flips and flops along her journey to fulfill

her heart's desire.

With its colourful and cheerful images, and empowering and entertaining story, Kika the Upside-Down Girl leaves readers feeling happy, hopeful, and ready to explore the world in any direction they choose!

Review Quotes

"Great lessons about individuals having unique talents and abilities and finding a place where you fit in. Gymnasts can relate to having the gym as their "happy place". Non-gymnasts can relate to feeling out of place and finally finding somewhere they fit in." - Dennis B

"Kika the Upside Down Girl is an adorable book that shows kids that it's okay to be different! There's always someplace to fit in, you just have to work at finding it. Kika finds it through gymnastics, where being upside-down is normal and celebrated." - Christy M.

"This book is great for kids who feel different. It's a story that comes from the heart and from the experiences of the author, an Olympic gymnast. I love the message that it is more than okay to be upside-down in a right side world. It celebrates uniqueness." - Susan

"Every child needs to hear this message on how following your glee helps you find your place, your people, and that it's okay to be the most fantastic or should I say "fliptastic" version of you that you can be!" - Elina P

"This books has lively writing, a lovable main character, lots of action, and a fast, fun-filled pace. The illustrations are bright, colorful, and really help move the story along. I especially love when Kika imagines upside-down adventures in the jungle, space, underwater, and on a mountain." - B.B.

"Kika absolutely loves being upside-down...all the time. She learns that it's okay to be different, and extraordinary when you can find others like you. So often, children are discouraged from talents that fall away from the mainstream--both by peers and even well-meaning parents." - Angela

"While Kika is certainly not like everyone in her usual day-to-day life; she knows there must be others like her! Kika the Upside Down Girl shows kids (and reminds parents) that there is always more than one way to see the world, and a place for everyone if we seek it out." - Create With Joy

In the book, Kika's parents want her to be 'normal', but Kika just wants people to understand how fun being upside-down is. Although ADHD and anxiety disorder aren't as fun as being upside-down, kids who feel "different" will resonate with Kika's story of acceptance." - Sarah J

"In a world of normal, Kika dares to see it differently, much to the exasperation of others. The colourful illustrations and uplifting words will encourage kids to find their own place in the world. Kids eyes light up seeing themselves as Kika which is fliptastic!" - laurathomas61

"I love Kika's story because it reminds us that differences are good, they make the world go round." - slpleslieanne

As the father of 2 aspiring young gymnasts, I never expected to find a kids book about gymnastics that's motivating and fun. Kika's story makes them feel special - like they are a part of her universe. My kids are ALWAYS upside-down when reading it as well ... truly handstanding!" - Sam

"We were fortunate to have author Jessica Tudos read "Kika The Upside-Down Girl" to our preschool and kindergarten children, which they loved! They identified with Kika's passion for being upside-down and actually flipped over to see the world from Kika's perspective" - Joy Ryman-McCann

"My daughter and I adore this book! The messages are very positive, educational, and fun for kids and parents. Although it is about a girl that loves gymnastics, it's about being different, and being the person we need to be. Kika is so spunky. - Susan Lanyi