Amiyah Loves Mud Baths (Paperback or Softback)

Amiyah Loves Mud Baths is a joyful celebration of childhood curiosity, creativity, and the messiest kind of magic-imagination at play. When Amiyah wakes up to a sunny morning, she has one thing on her mind: throwing the best mud bath party ever. With her trusty red shovel, a determined spirit, and her friend Rae by her side, she transforms her backyard into a scene of muddy delight. But when the girls show up dressed to impress-in tutus and tiaras-they soon learn that playtime isn't always runway-ready.

Amiyah's story blends humor and heart as a loving moment with her mother turns a gentle lesson into a joyful leap into the mud. Set in a vibrant urban neighborhood filled with laughter, gardens, and the energy of young minds, this tale offers young readers ages five to eight a relatable adventure inspired by real-life moments and the joyful chaos of childhood.

Written by Dr. Sika Koudou-a mother, sociologist, and storyteller whose own upbringing in Northeast Indianapolis and life with her daughters, nieces, nephews, and godchildren inspired every page-Amiyah Loves Mud Baths invites families to embrace spontaneous fun, authentic expression, and the simple power of getting gloriously messy. With playful language and emotional warmth, this story affirms the value of connection over perfection, making it a must-read for children, caregivers, and anyone who believes muddy clothes are a sign of a day well spent.

Dr. Sika Koudou is a sociologist, researcher, and youth advocate whose love for storytelling was shaped by her vibrant childhood in Northeast Indianapolis. Inspired by her mother's passion for the arts and a household full of imagination, Sika learned to see everyday life as a stage for connection, creativity, and joy.

Her storytelling draws from life with her two daughters and a beloved circle of siblings, nieces, nephews, godchildren, and cousins - whose laughter and resilience breathe life into her writing.

In Amiyah Loves Mud Baths, Sika blends nostalgia, playfulness, and emotional growth into a heartfelt celebration of imagination and the lessons hidden in ordinary moments. Her work honors Black girlhood, authentic self-expression, and the beauty of ordinary joy.

When she's not writing or researching, Sika loves spending time with her husband and daughters. Her home, especially in summer, overflows with splashy backyard adventures, spontaneous dance parties, and communal laughter - moments that inspire emotionally rich, family-rooted storytelling.