Kai can’t dance well; in fact, he’s the only one in his family who hasn’t earned a dance nickname from his grandpa. His little sister is Baby Bounce, big sister is Miss Boogie, and older brother is D.J. Groove, but Kai’s just Kai. Determined to learn how to dance in time for Aunt Nina’s upcoming wedding, Kai barters with his older sister to convince her to teach him. His older brother and dad add a few pointers, too. Kai practices a lot, but when the wedding comes around and it’s time to step onto the dance floor for the electric slide, he’s still nervous despite his new Uncle Tony’s encouragement. Then he notices that a lot of people out on the dance floor aren’t dancing perfectly—but all of them are having a great time. It’s just the encouragement he needs. Kai does get a nickname from Grandpa (Lil’ Slide), but it’s Kai and his family, who are Black, that provide the story’s greatest delight, with their genuine warmth and humor. (Ages 4-8)

Kai is the only member of his family who can't get the dance steps to the Electric Slide right. But Kai is determined to bust a move in this fun and sweet celebration of African American families.

Kai's aunt is getting married, and everyone in the Donovan family is excited about the wedding ... except Kai. The highlight of every Donovan occasion is dancing the electric slide--a groovy line dance with footwork that Kai can't quite figure out. More than anything, he wants to prove that he can boogie with the rest of his family and earn a cool nickname from his granddad. Can Kai break through his nerves and break it down on the dance floor?

Told with humor and heart by author Kelly J. Baptist and lively illustrations from debut picture book artist Darnell Johnson, The Electric Slide and Kai is a funky celebration with all the right moves!