Choi, Yangsook. 2001. The Name Jar. New York, NY: Alfred A. Knopf. ISBN 978-0375906138
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Unhei moves to America from Korea and is uncertain that the other children will be able to pronounce her name. When she arrives to class, she explains that she will be able to choose her own, new name when the time is right. Her young classmates create a name jar and fill it with potential names. As Unhei becomes more acclimated to her new home, she begins to consider the special meaning of her Korean name.
Internationally acclaimed author Yangsook Choi applies her personal experiences from growing up in Korea to the story in this charming picture book. The vibrant oil paintings engage young preschoolers and Choi’s exceptional ability to paint children of many different cultures is evident throughout the book.
Even the youngest reader can empathize with Unhei’s uneasiness in her new surroundings. While it is clear that the story takes place in the United States, significant additions such as the Korean neighborhood market indicate a setting unique to Unhei and her personal experiences.
References to Unhei’s name stamp augment the more traditional elements of the story. When Unhei fills a piece of paper with her name stamp signature, she is reminded of her home country and the family she left behind. Her new friend, Joey, is delighted with her beautiful Korean signature and this prompts Unhei to gradually acknowledge the importance of her heritage.
When Unhei ultimately chooses a name, the response from her fellow students depicts a overwhelming acceptance of cultural diversity. Even the youngest readers will grasp the significance of Unhei’s decision and many will rejoice that she made a befitting choice. Overall, The Name Jar is a delightful story for preschoolers and young elementary students.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
- California Young Reader Medal - Nominated 2004
- Flicker Tale Children's Book Award - Nominated 2004
- Grand Canyon Reader Award - Nominated 2005
- Arkansas Diamond Primary Book Award - Nominated 2004
- Emphasis on Reading Award - Nominated 2003
- Beehive Children's Book Award - Nominated 2003
Review from Booklist: “The paintings are mostly in gold and earth tones, and the figures have both stature and simplicity--as does the story.”
Review from Kirkus: “Choi...draws from her own experience, interweaving several issues into this touching account and delicately addressing the challenges of assimilation. The paintings are done in creamy, earth-tone oils and augment the story nicely”
Review from School Library Journal: “The bright, bold paintings that illustrate the story are realistic, warm, and appealing. Unfortunately, the text sags under the weight of its mission to describe how it might feel to immigrate.
Review from the New York Times: “...Unhei's reflection and inner strength are noteworthy; cultural details freshen the story, and Choi's gleaming, expressive paintings are always a treasure.”
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*Other picture books that include Asian American children:
Joung Un Kim, Soyung. Sumi's First Day of School Ever. ISBN 978-0670035229
Bae, Hyun-joo. New Clothes for New Years Day. ISBN 978-1933605296
Recorvits, Helen. My Name is Yoon. ISBN 978-0374351144Bae, Hyun-joo. New Clothes for New Years Day. ISBN 978-1933605296
*Yangsook Choi's Website