Imoh and Idara Ikpe understand the importance of financial education, even at such a young age.
Imoh is in second grade at St. Phillip’s School and Community Center, and his sister Idara is in first grade. They recently donated copies of their book, Mommy Can We Start a Business, to the Unbound Little Library.
While it’s a big lesson for young people to learn, their mother, who works in corporate finance, said it’s all been a family affair. The books are part of an even bigger lesson in her Mommy Money Series.
“Our family is very intentional about giving back,” Nathachie Ikpe said. “We believe that part of learning about money isn’t just earning and saving—it’s also learning how to give. God blesses you so you can bless others, and we want our kids to understand that early. They need to see that money is a tool, and a portion of what you have should always go toward helping others. Whether it’s our time, resources, or money—we always want to give back when we can.”
Her children agree.
“We’ve been talking about money for as long as I can remember—I even knew I had an investment account when I was like 4. She took those real conversations we were already having and turned them into a book,” Imoh said.
The early money lessons may mean something for the future as well.
“I’m still deciding [if I want to work in finance],” Idara said. “I agree with my brother—Mommy’s office was really cool. We got to sit in conference rooms and act like decision-makers. And I finally learned that even though she works for a bank, she doesn’t actually work in a bank.
The Unbound Library is located inside Ruthie’s restaurant in South Dallas. The little library is a community-driven mobile library and online bookstore promoting literacy, culture, and learning through free access and curated titles.