Say My Name
Say My Name by Joanna Ho is a picture book published by HarperCollins Publishers in 2023, featuring 40 pages in English. This work explores the significance of names and their cultural origins, emphasizing the importance of correct pronunciation as a means of honoring individual identities. Through lyrical prose, the author presents a narrative that encourages readers to embrace their names and the rich histories they represent.
In this book, six children from diverse backgrounds—Chinese, Tongan, Persian, Navajo, Mexican, and Ghanaian—share their names and the stories behind them, fostering a celebration of cultural heritage. The illustrations by Khoa Le complement Ho’s poetic storytelling, creating an engaging experience that highlights themes of identity and belonging. Readers will find a thoughtful exploration of how names connect us to our ancestors and the traditions that shape our lives.
Official synopsis Publisher
“In moving, lyrical prose, the book celebrates the beauty and sounds of each name alongside their culture of origin. The author builds a strong case that everyone should embrace their names and honor and learn those with which they may not be familiar.” –Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
“Together, [Joanna Ho and Khoa Le] create an affirming, uplifting work focused on how correct pronunciation honors and respects” –Publishers Weekly (starred review)
“A moving title that honors its readers and encourages them to feel confident in their cultural identities.” –School Library Journal
“A celebratory story that embraces identities and the beautiful origins behind one’s name.” –ALA Booklist
“In this powerful picture book, Ho’s poetic prose and Le’s expressive folk-art illustrations explore the beauty of embracing all identities and cultures” –Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
New York Times bestselling author Joanna Ho, of Eyes That Kiss in the Corners, creates a meaningful and diverse picture book about how names define us.
Names reveal generational ties and histories, weaving an intricate tale of the past. Names–and correctly saying them–are important. Each one carries the hopes, dreams, and traditions of those who came before us.
Six children connect with the reader and proudly celebrate their names and backgrounds: Hé Xiao-Guang, Ofa Kivaha Tupoumalohi, Bijan Hosseini, Nizhoni Yazzie, Xóchitl Luna, and Akosua Acheampong. These captivating kids of Chinese, Tongan, Persian, Navajo, Mexican, and Ghanaian descent also honor their ancestors and cultural histories.
Joanna Ho’s lyrical story, with gorgeous illustrations by Khoa Le, explains how saying a person’s name is the only way we can truly know another.
An Amazon Best Books of the Month pick for October!
A Common Sense Selection for Books pick with the “Families” designation!
An NCTE 2024 Notable Poetry Books and Verse Novel!
A CSMCL Best Book of 2023!
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