Awards

Your Name Is a Song, School Library Journal, Starred Review

“For all collections, this is a heartwarming tale with a simple yet critical message of respecting the pronunciation of an individual’s name and honoring the importance of identity and cultural heritage.”

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Your Name Is a Song, Kirkus starred review

” This lovely celebration of African American culture, featuring a Muslim family, offers a fresh way to look at the tradition of creating new names; Momma says, “Made-up names come from dreamers. Their real names were stolen long ago so they dream up new ones. They make a way out of no way, make names out of no names—pull them from the sky!” A glossary notes the origins and meanings of the names included in the text, with a note to always listen closely to how a person pronounces their name. The dynamic, pastel-hued illustrations reflect energy and strength.”