Nicki J. Bak is a Korean author who has spent over 20 years living in the United States, Canada, and the UAE. Growing up in the Midwest and Southern parts of the U.S., Nicki experienced firsthand what it was like to straddle two cultures—her Korean heritage and the Western world she called home. This unique upbringing shaped her perspective and instilled in her a deep desire to celebrate the richness of multicultural identities through storytelling.
As a child, Nicki often searched for books that reflected her culture, only to find that such stories were rare or nonexistent. This lack of representation inspired her mission to create stories for children like her—those who live in one culture but carry the traditions, values, and heart of another.
Now a mother of two boys, Nicki feels even more driven to craft meaningful stories that honor Korean culture while resonating with kids growing up in diverse, global communities. Through her books, she aims to capture the warmth of family, the beauty of identity, and the humor and joy that come from navigating life between cultures.
Nicki's work is a love letter to children searching for their place in the world and to her own sons, who she hopes will see their heritage reflected in her stories. By sharing her experiences, she hopes to inspire readers to embrace their unique identities and celebrate the beautiful connections between cultures.