A children’s story for ages 4–8

One brave hello can begin a beautiful friendship.

First Friend: The Power of Friendship follows Chris on his first day at a new school, where kindness, courage, and one new friend help everyone feel like they belong.

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Paperback $19.99 eBook $9.99 Author Christian Ekunwe
FIRST FRIEND

FIRST FRIEND

The Power of Friendship Chris and his classmates sharing a hug in their classroom Christian Ekunwe
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Inside the story

A story about finding your place—and helping others find theirs.

Chris and JoJo talking together in their classroom
Chris meets JoJo, and a new friendship begins.

Starting at a new school can feel scary. For Chris, it takes courage to introduce himself and join a new classroom. When JoJo reaches out, a simple act of friendship changes the day.

As the class learns to stand up to unkind behavior, young readers see how empathy, apologies, and inclusion can bring people together.

  • ♥ Friendship begins with kindness
  • ★ Everyone deserves to belong
  • ☀ Courage can inspire a whole classroom

Meet the characters

Big hearts. Real feelings. One unforgettable first day.

Chris smiling in his wheelchair

The new student

Chris

Curious, brave, and ready to find his place in a brand-new classroom.

JoJo speaking with Chris

The first friend

JoJo

A welcoming classmate who shows how much one kind choice can matter.

Children learning together in class

The classroom

A chance to grow

Mrs. Green helps her students learn about empathy, respect, and second chances.

Read, meet, connect

See Christian at a reading or book signing.

New bookstore signings, school readings, and community events will be posted here.

Upcoming events Updates coming soon

More story time is on the way.

No public dates have been announced yet. Check back for Las Vegas area events and school visits.

A lively classroom scene from First Friend

Bring the story to your community

School visits, readings, and conversations that stay with children.

Invite Christian for an age-appropriate reading and conversation about friendship, disability inclusion, courage, and standing up for others.

School readingsLibrary eventsBookstore signingsCommunity programs

Inquiry email will be activated before the public launch.

Keep the story going

Book-inspired goodies for readers, classrooms, and events.

First Friend book illustration
Available now

First Friend paperback

A keepsake story to read again and again.

$19.99
Coming soon

Story puzzle

A kid-friendly puzzle featuring the friends.

Coming soon

Bookmarks

A bright reminder to choose kindness.

Coming soon

Friendship bands

A simple event giveaway with a big message.

Author Christian Ekunwe
AUTHOR
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About the author

Christian Ekunwe

Christian Ekunwe is a motivational storyteller and advocate for inclusion. Drawing on his lived experience as a wheelchair user, he creates stories that help children understand friendship, empathy, and belonging.

“Every child deserves to see that kindness can change a room.”

Keep Showing Up Publishing

Stories for a more inclusive tomorrow.

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School & event visits

Let’s bring First Friend to your readers.

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