This is why we need diverse stories and books. This is why representation in children's literature matters. Not only does this children's book normalize a family's immigration to a new country it normalizes all of our differences. It gives us a glimpse into the mind and emotions of a child from a minority group hoping to be accepted by the majority. It highlights how your name can bring a sense of pride or sometimes a sense of fear or worry. The story features images of children of different races and ethnicities, and exposes ALL readers to Korean customs, as well as to the Korean language in written and verbal form. When it comes to diversity in children's books, only 7% of published books are about Asian populations. It is a reminder of how diversity in children's literature is needed. 💫I won’t spoil the story but it is heartwarming. After being teased by some kids on the school bus, she decides not to reveal her Korean name in fear of facing more ridicule from her new American classmates. She even goes without a name for the first few days of school. It’s a story of a Korean girl who is new to America and worries how her name will be received at her new school. 💫Reading “The Name Jar” reminded me of my love/ hate relationship with my name. And with that I slowly (very slowly) started to embrace Shontaye- spelling and all. My mother would sing the tune and frequently reminded me that my name means to sing and be happy. Let’s all sing when any little thing goes wrong.” 🎶Chantez, Chantez sing a little Paris song. It was sung by Dinah Shore and when she heard it, my mother decided Shontaye would be my name. She told me my name was French and about the song that inspired my name. Then, my mom told me the story of how I was named. I think I felt at least that spelling would make my name special and fancy. The stocking read “Chanté” and I instantly preferred that spelling. I also remember finding a stocking at my grandparents' house one Christmas. I remember wanting to go by my middle name, but that was not an option.

No one in my class had a name like mine- and no one had skin like mine.

I was a girl in a class full of Jennifer's, Lisa's and Tracey's.

The name jar author