Materials: Chart paper, markers, optional name reflection sheet
Before reading, invite students to think about their own names. Ask students whether they know who chose their name, why it was selected or whether it has a special meaning in their family. Make it clear that students may share only what they are comfortable sharing, and that some people may not know the story of their name.
Create a class chart titled “Names Can Hold …” and record student ideas such as family, love, culture, memory, hope, tradition, sound, meaning and identity. Explain that the book they are about to read explores how one child learns that their name carries much more meaning than they first realized.
Discussion Questions:
- Why do people have names?
- Can a name tell a story?
- How can a name make someone feel connected?