Say My Name

Description

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 that came before us. Six captivating kids connect with the reader, proudly celebrating their names, backgrounds, and ancestors: Hé Xiao-Guang from China Ofa Kivaha Tupoumalohi from the South Pacific Bijan Hosseini from Iran Nizhoni Yazzie, who is Navajo Xóchitl Luna from Mexico Akosua Acheampong from Ghana Joanna Ho’s lyrical story explains how saying a person’s name is the only way we can truly know another.

Reviews

"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 (starred review)

Author description

Joanna Ho is passionate about equity in books and education. She has been an English teacher, a dean, and a teacher professional development mastermind. She is currently the vice principal of a high school in the San Francisco Bay Area. Homemade chocolate chip cookies, outdoor adventures, and dance parties with her kids make Joanna's eyes crinkle into crescent moons. Keep your eyes open for her next picture book, YO-YO MA: PLAYING AT THE BORDER (Fall 2021). Visit her at www.joannahowrites.com and @JoannaHoWrites.