The Name Jar

Reach for this book when your child is entering a new social environment, such as a new school or team, and feels the pressure to hide parts of their identity to fit in. It is especially resonant for families navigating the nuances of bicultural identity or for children who have ever felt embarrassed by something that makes them unique, like a name or a tradition. Following Unhei, a young girl newly arrived from Korea, the story explores the anxiety of being misunderstood. When classmates struggle with her name, she considers choosing an American one from a jar, only to discover that her true name carries her family history and her heart. At its core, this is a story about the bravery it takes to be yourself and the beauty of friends who take the time to learn who you really are. It is a gentle, realistic, and deeply affirming read for children ages 4 to 8.