My Name Is Not Easy

Reach for this book when your teenager is processing the weight of their own identity or struggling to feel heard within a system that demands they fit a specific mold. It is a powerful tool for young readers navigating the complex emotions of being away from home, whether due to school, family changes, or a sense of cultural displacement. The story follows three brothers and their peers at a 1960s Alaskan boarding school, where they face the suppression of their Iñupiaq heritage and the harsh realities of institutional life. While the setting is historical, the emotional core is deeply relevant to any teen feeling the sting of injustice or the loneliness of a changing family structure. Through the eyes of multiple narrators, the book explores resilience, the bond of siblings, and the courage it takes to remain true to yourself when the world says you must change. It is an intense but vital read for ages 12 and up, offering a bridge to discuss systemic racism, historical trauma, and the enduring power of community.