In Say My Name, six kids introduce themselves and convey the rich histories of their names and cultures: Chinese, Tongan, Persian, Navajo, Mexican, and Ghanaian descent. This powerful new picture book explores the beauty, meaning, and history behind the names —exploring the children’s cultures and ethnicities, hopes, dreams, and traditions while emphasizing the importance of identity and saying names correctly.
I’m From is an invitation into the vivid world of one small boy, and a poetic account of all the people, places, and things that shape who he is and define where he is from. With expressive illustrations, I’m From celebrates the small defining moments that make a day and a life.
About the Contributors:
Joanna Ho, author of Say My Name, is the bestselling and award-winning author of many books for kids. She has been an English teacher, a dean, the designer of an alternative-to-prison program, a creator of educator professional development, and a high school vice principal. She lives in the Bay Area, where she survives on homemade chocolate chip cookies, outdoor adventures, and dance parties with her kids.
I’m From author, Gary Gray, Jr., is a Black Canadian poet and educator who writes for young children and adults as well as host of the podcast “It's Personal.” Gray's love for literature stems from told and untold stories within his hometown of Preston, Nova Scotia, the largest Black community in Canada. He and his wife have been international educators for more than ten years. You can visit him online at garyrgrayjr.com.
Oge Mora, illustrator of I’m From, graduated from Rhode Island School of Design with a BFA in illustration. Her debut picture book, Thank You, Omu!, was a Caldecott Honor Book, a New York Times Notable Book and Editors’ Choice, and a Junior Library Guild selection. She is also the author-illustrator of Saturday and the illustrator of The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read. Oge lives in Providence, Rhode Island. Her website is www.ogemora.com.
Ages 4-8
This event is free to attend and open to the public, however, reservations are required for school groups interested in attending. Seating is available on a first come, first served basis.
