The Name Jar
The following story is a read-aloud I use in my classes the first month of school. As someone who has a very “Italian” name, I always cringed when someone would have to pronounce it. This is a great story that many students can relate to and a great welcoming tool in the class. In addition to studying the elements of a story with it, I also have the students reflect on their own names and their meaning. It opens up wonderful conversations about how names are given in every country and culture and to be proud of them. – Luigina Finneran
Summary Overview from Barnes and Noble
A heartwarming story about the new girl in school, and how she learns to appreciate her Korean name.
Being the new kid in school is hard enough, but what happens when nobody can pronounce your name? Having just moved from Korea, Unhei is anxious about fitting in. So instead of introducing herself on the first day of school, she decides to choose an American name from a glass jar. But while Unhei thinks of being a Suzy, Laura, or Amanda, nothing feels right. With the help of a new friend, Unhei will learn that the best name is her own.
From acclaimed creator Yangsook Choi comes the bestselling classic about finding the courage to be yourself and being proud of your background.
Luigina Finneran is the NJTESOL/NJBE Bilingual/ESL Middle School 6-8 SIG Representative. She teaches in Fair Lawn Schools.