My Name is Sangoel

Reach for My Name is Sangoel when your child is facing a transition that makes them feel invisible or when they are struggling to help others understand a core part of their identity, such as a unique name or a different background. This poignant story follows a young refugee from Sudan as he navigates the overwhelming sights and sounds of a new American city. While the book touches on themes of loss and displacement, it focuses primarily on Sangoel's agency and creative problem-solving as he finds a way to ensure his classmates see him for who he truly is. Appropriate for elementary-aged children, this book is an excellent choice for fostering empathy and celebrating the dignity of one's own heritage. It empowers children to take pride in their roots while navigating the complexities of fitting into a new social environment. Parents will appreciate how the story validates the frustration of being misunderstood while offering a hopeful, proactive path toward belonging.