Evelyn Del Rey Is Moving Away Book Review

Welcome back, everyone!

 It’s Jebeh Edmunds here, and I’m thrilled to share with you my latest episode on the Cultural Curriculum Chat Podcast. This week I explore the heartwarming story of Evelyn Del Rey Is Moving Away by Meg Medina, beautifully illustrated by Sonia Sanchez. This book is a touching tale that looks into the bittersweet emotions of saying goodbye to a best friend, making it a must-read for educators and parents alike.

About the Book

Evelyn Del Rey Is Moving Away captures the deep bond between two best friends, Evelyn and Daniella, as they navigate the heart-wrenching experience of moving apart. Written by Newbery Medalist Meg Medina, this story is brought to life with vibrant illustrations by Sonia Sanchez, reminiscent of the timeless style of Ezra Jack Keats.

Why This Story Matters

This book resonates with anyone who has experienced the pain of parting ways with a dear friend. It beautifully portrays the emotions children feel during transitions and highlights the importance of maintaining those bonds, even from a distance. As educators, it’s crucial to recognize and address these feelings in our students, helping them understand and cope with change.

Learning from Evelyn Del Rey Is Moving Away

In my review, I look into essential themes of the book:

  • Emotional Bond: The story showcases the strong connection between Evelyn and Daniella, reminding us of the deep friendships formed during childhood.
  • Coping with Change: It provides a platform to discuss the inevitability of change and how to handle the emotions that come with it.
  • Illustrative Beauty: Sonia Sanchez’s illustrations add a layer of warmth and nostalgia, making the story visually engaging for young readers.
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Educational Insights and Activities

For educators, Evelyn Del Rey Is Moving Away offers a unique opportunity to discuss transitions and emotions in the classroom. Here are some ways to incorporate this book into your lessons:

  • Classroom Discussions: Use the story to open a dialogue about change and how it feels when a friend moves away.
  • Creative Activities: Encourage students to draw or write about their own experiences with friends moving or any significant change in their lives.
  • Role-Playing: Have students act out scenes from the book to explore the emotions and develop empathy.

 

Stay Engaged and Informed

I hope you find this review insightful and that it inspires you to bring this touching story into your classroom. For more engaging content on multicultural education, diversity, and inclusion, be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel, Mrs. Edmunds’ Cultural Corner.

 

Thank you for being a part of our community. Together, we can foster understanding, respect, and inclusivity in every aspect of our lives.

Tune In to The Cultural Curriculum Chat Podcast!

Looking for an authentic podcast that delves into Multicultural Education and inclusivity? Join me, Jebeh Edmunds, every Thursday at 7:00am for The Cultural Curriculum Chat Podcast. Each episode offers practical insights, tips, and a touch of humor to inspire you in creating a more inclusive classroom and community. Available on Apple Podcasts, Amazon and Spotify.

Listen Now!

DEI Deconstructed: A No-Nonsense Guide to Doing the Work Right Book Review

Hello, everyone! 


It’s Jebeh Edmunds here, welcoming you back to another episode of the Cultural Curriculum Chat Podcast

Today, I’m excited to share a remarkable book that will make you sit back, reflect, and truly dive deep into Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) practices: DEI Deconstructed: Your No-Nonsense Guide to Doing the Work and Doing It Right by Lily Zheng.

About the Book

DEI Deconstructed by Lily Zheng is a must-read for anyone involved in DEI work. This book takes a straightforward, no-nonsense approach to DEI practices, offering clear, actionable insights. Lily Zheng, a seasoned DEI consultant, breaks down complex concepts into understandable segments, making it accessible for everyone from beginners to seasoned practitioners.

Why This Book Stands Out

One of the aspects I admire most about this book is its structure. Lily divides the book into several essential parts, each focusing on different aspects of DEI work:

  • Foundation: This section covers the basics, including key terms, initial steps like surveys and audits, and the evolution of DEI movements. It’s a perfect starting point for those new to DEI.
  • Pillars: This section dives into tactical strategies, providing concrete steps and methodologies to implement DEI effectively.
  • Toolbox: Here, Lily provides practical tools, exercises, and reflective questions that can be used by employee resource groups, leadership teams, and entire staffs.
  • Conclusion and Resources: The final part offers additional resources, further reading, and a robust bibliography to deepen your understanding.

Key Takeaways

In my review, I highlight some of the book’s significant themes:

  • Impact Over Intentions: Lily emphasizes that good intentions are not enough; it’s the impact of our actions that truly matters. This is a crucial point for all DEI practitioners.
  • Continuous Evolution: DEI is an ever-evolving field. Lily acknowledges this and encourages readers to stay adaptable and open to change.
  • Practical Exercises: Each chapter is filled with exercises and reflective questions designed to foster real, actionable change within organizations.
  • Stakeholder Roles: The book includes a detailed analysis of different stakeholder roles in DEI work, from advocates and educators to strategists and reformers.

Educational Insights

For educators and DEI practitioners, DEI Deconstructed offers a treasure trove of insights and practical advice. Whether you’re leading an employee resource group or integrating DEI into your classroom, this book provides the tools and frameworks needed to make meaningful progress.

Watch Now!

Join the Conversation

I am deeply inspired by Lily’s work and would love to have her on my show to discuss her insights further. If you’re interested in more episodes on DEI strategies for work and school, be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel, Mrs. Edmunds’ Cultural Corner, and the Cultural Curriculum Chat Podcast. Stay updated with the latest episodes and join our community dedicated to fostering inclusivity and understanding.

 

Tune In to The Cultural Curriculum Chat Podcast!

Looking for an authentic podcast that delves into Multicultural Education and inclusivity? Join me, Jebeh Edmunds, every Thursday at 7:00am for The Cultural Curriculum Chat Podcast. Each episode offers practical insights, tips, and a touch of humor to inspire you in creating a more inclusive classroom and community. Available on Apple Podcasts, Amazon and Spotify.

Listen Now!

 

Thank you for being part of our growing community. Together, let’s continue to champion diversity, inspire change, and create inclusive spaces for all.

 

Dream Builder: The Story of Architect Philip Freelon Book Review

Welcome back, everyone!

Jebeh returning again to share my latest episode, a book review on “Dream Builder: The Story of Architect Philip Freelon” by Kelly Starling Lyons and illustrated by Laura Freeman. This inspiring tale takes us through the life and achievements of the renowned architect Philip Freelon, who designed the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

About the Book

“Dream Builder” is a beautifully illustrated story that captures the journey of Philip Freelon from his childhood dreams to his monumental achievements. Written by Kelly Starling Lyons, with an afterword by Philip Freelon himself, this book is a tribute to his legacy and contributions to architecture and culture.

Why This Story Matters

Philip Freelon’s story is one of perseverance, creativity, and cultural pride. From his early struggles with reading to becoming a celebrated architect, his life is a testament to the power of determination and the importance of family support. His work, especially the design of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, stands as a beacon of cultural heritage and resilience.

Learning from Dream Builder

In my review, I go deeper into the essential themes of the book:

  • Cultural Resilience: Philip’s journey reflects the resilience of the African American community and the importance of preserving cultural heritage.
  • Family Support: The unwavering support of Philip’s family, especially his grandfather, played a crucial role in nurturing his talents and dreams.
  • Architectural Legacy: Philip’s commitment to designing buildings that honor cultural heritage and his refusal to design oppressive structures highlight his dedication to social justice and positive change.

Educational Insights and Activities

For educators and parents, “Dream Builder” offers numerous opportunities to discuss important topics such as perseverance, cultural heritage, and social justice. Encouraging students to explore their own dreams and the impact they can have on their communities.

I hope you find this review enlightening and that it inspires you to explore the story of Philip Freelon further. For more engaging content on cultural competency, diversity, and inclusion, be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel, Mrs. Edmonds’ Cultural Corner.

Thank you for being a part of our community. Together, we can foster understanding, respect, and inclusivity in every aspect of our lives.

Tune In to The Cultural Curriculum Chat Podcast!

Looking for an authentic podcast that delves into Multicultural Education and inclusivity? Join me, Jebeh Edmunds, every Thursday at 7:00am for The Cultural Curriculum Chat Podcast. Each episode offers practical insights, tips, and a touch of humor to inspire you in creating a more inclusive classroom and community. Available on Apple Podcasts, Amazon and Spotify.   Listen Now!

Kapaemahu Book Review

Welcome back, everyone! 

It’s Jebeh Edmonds here, and I’m thrilled to share with you, from my latest episode a book review on the “Kapaemāhū” book. This wonderful tale, written by Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu, Dean Hamer, and Joe Wilson, and illustrated by Daniel Sousa, takes us deep into the rich cultural history of four extraordinary beings from Tahiti who settled in Hawaii. These beings were known for their healing powers and their dual male and female spirits, embodying both in mind, heart, and spirit.

About the Book

“Kapaemāhū” takes us on a journey to pre-colonial Hawaii, where these four beings—Kapaemāhū, Kinohi, Kahaloa, and Kapuni—arrived on the shores of Waikīkī. Each one possessed unique healing abilities: Kapaemāhū healed by laying hands, Kinohi was all-seeing, Kahaloa could heal from afar, and Kapuni possessed great spiritual power. Their story, filled with mana (spiritual power), is a testament to the Hawaiian understanding of duality and balance, and the importance of inclusivity.

Why This Story Matters

The tale of Kapaemāhū is not just a story; it’s a profound lesson in cultural resilience and the power of mo‘olelo (storytelling). It reminds us of the rich history and traditions that shape our present and future. The people of Hawai‘i revered these beings for their healing powers and wisdom, and their story has been passed down through generations, gaining power with each retelling.

Learning from Kapaemāhū

In my review, I disect essential themes of the book:

  • Cultural Significance: The story highlights the respect for māhū (individuals of dual gender) in Hawaiian culture, teaching us about the importance of balance and inclusivity.
  • Healing Powers: Each character’s unique ability symbolizes different aspects of healing and spiritual power, showcasing the deep connection between the physical and spiritual realms in Hawaiian tradition.
  • Mana of Mo‘olelo: Storytelling itself is a source of mana. Sharing and perpetuating these stories keeps the culture and its values alive, enriching our understanding and connection to the past.
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Educational Insights and Activities

For educators and parents, the “Kapaemāhū” book offers numerous opportunities to discuss important topics such as gender fluidity, cultural history, and the power of inclusivity. 

I hope you find this review enlightening and that it inspires you to explore the story of Kapaemāhū further. For more engaging content on cultural competency, diversity, and inclusion, be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel, Mrs. Edmunds’ Cultural Corner.

Thank you for being a part of our community. Together, we can foster understanding, respect, and inclusivity in every aspect of our lives.

Tune In to The Cultural Curriculum Chat Podcast!

Looking for an authentic podcast that delves into Multicultural Education and inclusivity? Join me, Jebeh Edmunds, every Thursday at 7:00am for The Cultural Curriculum Chat Podcast.

Each episode offers practical insights, tips, and a touch of humor to inspire you in creating a more inclusive classroom and community. Available on Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, and Spotify.

Listen Now!

From the Podcast Archives: My Conversation with Author, Illustrator Vanessa Brantley Newton

Welcome back to the Cultural Curriculum Chat podcast. I am Jebeh Edmunds and today, I am sharing my conversation with author and illustrator Vanessa Brantley Newton, whose energetic prose and art will motivate and inspire. 

 

About Vanessa Brantley Newton

Vanessa was born during the Civil Rights Movement and attended school in Newark, New Jersey, in a diverse, tight-knit community. During such turbulent times, Vanessa learned the importance of acceptance and empowerment in shaping a young person’s life. When she read Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats, it was the first time she saw herself in a book, which became a defining moment in her life and has made her into the artist she is today. As an illustrator, she includes children of all ethnic backgrounds in her stories and artworks. Her goal is for children to see their unique experiences reflected in books they read so they can feel the same sense of empowerment and recognition she experienced as a young reader.

 

Vanessa’s Early Life

As a child, Vanessa says she attended predominantly white schools where she was the only black child within the classroom and would often ask her mother if she was invisible because she wasn’t granted books where she saw other representations like black children. She continues to relay her experience of never seeing black hair textures, skin colour or her parents within children’s books because her parents also didn’t spend money on books that reflected her identity. However, Vanessa fondly remembers Mrs. Russell, who noticed and acknowledged that Vanessa was different she allowed her to read Snowy Day for the first time, and it was the first time she ever saw another black child, especially within a book. And she found herself and peace within that book and still reads it to this day. 

 

Vanessa’s Takeaways

Vanessa touches on the power of names and how she feels so strongly about how important and significant the act of naming your child is. She talks about her own daughter Zoey and how proud she is of her becoming her name. Vanessa also talks about how when she was a child, she didn’t like her name, and her parents told her that her name meant her favourite thing to draw, which at the time was butterflies; she said she even got teary-eyed and overwhelmed with pride. 

Lastly, Vanessa’s message for educators is that they are appreciated by her, and she acknowledges how hard it is to put lessons together.

 

Thank you for listening to this week’s episode of the Cultural Curriculum Chat. If you’re interested in Vanessa’s books, they can be purchased through Amazon, Penguin Books, Barnes and Noble and, of course, her website at https://www.vanessabrantleynewton.com.  If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear more, subscribe to my YouTube channel at Mrs. Edmunds’ Cultural Corner for more podcasts, videos, and other multicultural and educational content. 

 

See you next time!

Bella the Scientist Goes to Outer Space Book Review

I cannot wait to share my passion for another fantastic multicultural educational read, and today I can’t wait to share with you all. It is titled Bella, the Scientist goes to Outer Space. It’s written by Silvana and Isabella Spence, her daughter, and it’s illustrated by Darwin Marfil.

I love this book because it talks about two sisters, Bella and Vicky, and Bella and Vicky have this love and passion for all things science. And the cool thing about it is that these two sisters go on an adventure, and they’re trying to find different roles for other scientists out there.

I love the illustrations and how it shows these beautiful African American girls and their natural hair. And it also talks about looking over a list of various sciences you could become. Savannah and Isabella do an excellent job in these girls venturing into outer space. I’m not gonna give away too much because I want you to get this book, and it even talks about the planets in actual scientific facts.

So your students can also get involved in taking notes and, Oh, a teacher’s dream. Of course, cause you know, US educators love extra resources at the end of this book. She even has a rocket vinegar experiment. So you and your grownup at home, educators, can do this in the science lab at school to take this book to another level. Another cool thing is that she even talks about the scientific method in the book, as well as using the scientific method alongside your rocket vinegar experiment.

Love it. Love it, love it, love it. Keeping that going and having those fun facts about the solar system are also included at the end of this book. So I can’t wait to share more. Silvana is a fantastic educator that I had the pleasure of meeting and interviewing on my podcast. She and her do extraordinary adventures throughout Florida in that love and passion for science and experience.

Ms. Silvana Spence. Another favorite educator of mine, I will have in my notes and description below all things you can do to purchase this book wherever books are sold, as well as follow this excellent educator’s journey in her classroom on Instagram. You can follow Sil’s journey below and order her book here: https://silsteps4success.com/

Just Like Me Book Review

Another great Vanessa Brantley Newton book is called Just Like Me, and this title is really a book of her poems, and it is very self-affirming with students. She really captures self-confidence. She’s got titles like I Am a Canvas. The day I decided to become sunshineWarrior. That’s a really good one.

 Altogether, girls talk about being proud of their bodies and even pimples that come into the mix. She has a poem titled  City and Country Dreams, and the duplicity about it talks about young girls having friendships, bonds, dreams, and ambitions.

Being ourselves in the poem Weird that’s one of my favorite ones. There are so many great poems here. She really does capture things down to detail. You can even see newspaper print on the bottom of the drums. She’s got down to the stitching, ah, Meemaw’s MA’s wisdom.

Also, another favorite poem is titled Memawh’s Wisdom, thinking about your own elder and having those face-to-face conversations and the bond you have. Everybody’s Memaw is unique and kind, and it just brings back fond memories, talks about feelings, and is one of my favorite ones. Like I tell you, I have them all.

 But even sharing the poems,  Hair and My Crown. It’s just beautifully done. And what I love, this last one, that culminates everyone together, is called paper chains and how it talks about everybody uniting together. We can only do it once everyone joins, once we are all invited.

Won’t you be a link in our paper chain for the change end quote? Beautifully done. Vanessa. And remember to share and subscribe so I can share more books like these with you.

Get this book, Just Like Me, by Vanessa Brantley Newton. Wherever books are sold. There is a lot of great content that you and your students can analyze in your poetry units. So be sure to check it out. You know you’re gonna love it.

Becoming Vanessa Book Review

Hello there! I’m a happy educator today, and I cannot wait to share with you all again another great book review, and it is titled Becoming Vanessa. It was written and illustrated by Vanessa Brantley Newton. I had the pleasure of interviewing Vanessa a few weeks ago, and definitely check out her podcast episode with me on The Cultural Curriculum Chat.

I will have that link down below. Now to get started with this book. It is a coming-of-age book on the first day of school. Everybody has those jitters, especially the teachers, but we don’t wanna spill that kind of tea. Okay? So becoming Vanessa is her self-titled character, and she talks about getting ready for the first.

School, her mommy and daddy ask her, what are you gonna wear that special today? And as you can see, I got my little particular leper print cardigan on because we all have to enjoy our inner childlike energy. And what I love about Vanessa’s attention to detail. She’s got it down to the hair textures of her parents.

Even how things just come to life. Even the fashion, the feather boa that little Vanessa does. What I also enjoy in this book, it even has a mommy and a hair tie. Okay. It shows all walks of life that Vanessa brings to the pages. She even talks about her name and how long it takes to write it when everybody else is done with the day.

And you know, as a teacher, we all have those students that have those beautiful, unique, long names that take a while, but she talks about how she gets into her name. Feels in the beginning that her name isn’t that special, but her mom walks her through and tells her the true meaning of her name. You will just choke up with joy and see how this beautiful little girl takes that pride in herself.

And she sits a little taller, like I say, and talks about how her beautiful name has meaning and how she portrays herself and honors who she is just beautiful. So definitely check out this book. It’s one of my favorites. And just how colorful, bright, and childlike Vanessa has this in her book.

It’s very well done. As you can say, Vanessa is a beautiful person inside and out. And you are going to enjoy this book. I highly recommend this book, kindergarten to about third grade, for the beginning of the school year, but, Check it out now. In honor of Black History Month, she is one of the most well-known illustrators in our children’s books universe.

So definitely get this book Becoming Vanessa wherever books are sold. You can learn more about this fantastic author here: https://www.vanessabrantleynewton.com/

The ABCs of Black History Book Review

Today I’m gonna chat more about this book, The ABCs of Black History, written by Rio Cortez and illustrated by Lauren Semmer. This is a wonderfully made book inspired by the late great James Baldwin.

You can see. “History is not the past. It is the present. We carry our history with us. We are our history.”- James Baldwin. I just love this. Whenever we talk about black history, it’s more than just the month.

Throughout the year, we must learn about all our country’s innovators, explorers, organizers, artists, engineers, scientists, and diplomatic people. I always did that in my classroom, and I know you can do it for educators. It starts with A is for Anthem, lifting our voice strong, and it does ring true to the black national anthem.

It continues and the illustrations that Lauren has created. It reminds me a lot of Faith Ringold. I loved her book Tar Beach and Dinner at Aunt Connie’s house, which I believe was the one. Also, another black history book, one of my favorites from back in the day. Rio also talks about the diaspora, what that means, um, and it continues through.

F is for folklore, and H is for Harlem. If you’ve never been, I highly recommend it. My husband and I went to Harlem on our honeymoon, eh, another H word. It’s a beautiful neighborhood. It even talks about J’ouvert and Juneteenth, how the people organized and marched and stood up for themselves, and the different queens throughout Africa and our American history.

Just wonderfully done. Ooh, this is such a well-done book. Talks about, like I said, our scientists, our astronomers, our writers. It’s a good launching pad. For your research studies, every year when I taught, we did African American biographies throughout the year with my students, and I would have a list of African American contributors from the past president in the future, and my students got to pick, and this is a great launching pad to start that project as.

And then it ends with Z for Zenith, the highest peak always reminded me of Dr. King’s speech. I’ve Been to the Mountaintop. Another beautiful one is that we’ve got much more to do, grow, and thrive. Love this. It even has a glossary people of the terms and the. And figures from this book. Very well done.

I am so proud of this book, and I recommend you get it as soon as possible to kick off your learning for Black History month and beyond.

Nicole and the Fifth Grade Desk Book Review

I’m here to share another great book for your classroom and homelife: Nicole and the Fifth Grade Desk by Tiffaney Whyte, Illustrated by Christina Rudenko. 

First of all this book is really well written it talks about a little girl named Nicole who is all ready for the first day of 5th grade but still a little nervous to start a new grade. She meets her teacher who greets her with a smile and on her face Nicole feels like she could be ready but she’s just so nervous to get started.The book is perfect because it talks with a talking desk and the desk guides Nicole into what to expect in this new grade in 5th grade. It talks about lots of affirmations that are true to her as a 5th grader how she is, I quote, “special unique and beautiful” and how she will accomplish great things in life.

 What I love about this book is the desk even gives her insights of what to expect in fifth grade as far as figurative language. Which is one of our 5th grade standards for understanding what similes and metaphors would be like and helping her know even the events that she’s going to be going through, dressing for Success day and school fundraisers and fun, engaging activities that she’s going to be learning alongside her classmates. 

 Jitters and. I remember talking to Miss Tiffaney Whyte on my podcast. Go back and check it out, season 2, episode 21 and listen to my conversation with Tiffaney. 

You can listen to the episode right on the link below.

https://www.buzzsprout.com/1495555/11874324 

  Let’s face it, everybody has jitters no matter what grade level you’re going through, and I love how Tiffaney writes in this book that it’s a celebration of starting a new grade. You can begin this book with a new student that comes into your classroom because that new student is going into a class that already has their routines and norms set up significantly in the middle of the school year. Educators, I’ve had students come in the last week of school, and it’s always very intimidating to be the new kid on the Block, but this is a great tool to start that conversation of what to expect in fifth grade. You could read it and any grade-level to open up that conversation. I recommend ordering the book Nicole and the fifth-grade desk, written by Tiffaney Whyte and illustrated by Christina Rudenko. You can purchase this book at the link below. 

https://www.amazon.com/Nicole-Fifth-Grade-Tiffaney-Whyte/dp/B0B8BPKFZ6

Your Name is a Song Book Review

This book is amazing. It is a love between a mother and her daughter on her first day of school. And I have to tell you, I can relate to this little girl because she gets picked up from school by her mother. And she is upset. Is she mad and frustrated because of how her teacher made her feel about her name? She told her mommy she choked when she said my name, and the other kids in my class chuckled. I was that little girl. And I remember the day my mom picked me up, and I had that experience. Now my mom is also an educator, and knowing her and my father, when they named me Jebeh, after the chief of our tribe, who was my great aunt Chief Jebeh. 

 

And this book also depicts the same love and confidence that this mother only pays to her daughter. She has it in a lyrical rhythm that your students can tap into the syllables of each name. And the names that the author picked are names spoken throughout the world. Some names are in Arabic. Some names are in Vietnamese, and some names are Nigerian and Ghanaian. Some names are African American. And what I love about this book is that it has a glossary at the back. Before reading this book out loud to your students, I recommend you read the love glossary and practice the names because when you’re reading the book out loud.They’re gonna sit up taller. They’re gonna feel proud. They’re gonna love that their name is actually in this book. Hey, I must admit, the day I have my name written in a book, I am going to fall over with joy. Hopefully, it’ll be a name I wrote myself because I am also a writer. But I want you educators to take this book and read it. Like I said, it will be music to your ears. It is a beautiful, well-written story. 

 

I’m going to share just a couple names in the book that you have to read because once you read it, you can feel the rhythm of The fire the stars. In this story. We have Lamika, Kwaku, Born on Wednesday, and Ghanian names. I have Ta’ Jae, and I also have Ngozi. Have a cousin named Ngozi, Ngozi girl, your name is in this book, she’s gotta love that too. Also, you’ve got names, like I said or done. And you’ve got Ha, that is Vietnamese. Another thing that I want you to see at the end of this book is she shares her name in a song. She is practicing her classmates’ names in a song and how that teacher changes her attitude towards this girl is also very powerful. The name she is in this book is about the little girl. Her name is Kora-Jalimusu. Now the meaning Kora-Jalimusu is after the harp instrument played by a female griot. A griot is a West African storyteller. 

Not everybody gets the honor to become a griot in their tribe in the western part of Africa. So for her to have that name of a harp, Kora, the harp is just beautiful. And if it wasn’t for my mother and my father giving me the name of my great aunt, I don’t think I would have felt as strong and important and validated with the identity that I do now. It takes your parents and your community around you to learn your name and understand your identity and take pride in that. And it also depicts the beauty of names that, although you’ve never heard of them or are unfamiliar with these names, names are so beautiful, and they are music to everyone’s ears. So when you’re reading a story the first time, enjoy it, learn from it. 

 

You might not have a student in this book that will go, “oh my goodness, that’s me!”  It is beautiful. And I tell you, I cannot wait to meet this author and say thank you to all the children out there. I cannot wait to personally find the author and thinker because I am one of these names in this book, feeling despair at first and discouragement. And then my mother and father brought that pride back into me because I was named for a reason.

 

 My name is also a beautiful song. It is titled Jebeh, written and performed by the African icon Miata Fahnbulleh, so look it up and listen to Jebeh. The melody of the son of Jebeh is owned by son Jebeh, which means my heart is pleased to meet you. I play the song in front of my students every year I have taught. I even played it and performed it in my community. My name is a song. Your name is a song. And we need to have our symphony of names together, united and understood; Jamilah, I hope to meet you one of these days because I am a huge fan of your work. Educators, please get this book on your bookshelves.

 

 Study the glossary for others like myself; you need to learn how to say our names correctly, like Jebeh. I can’t tell you how many times my name was mispronounced by my teachers growing up, and some of them practiced really hard. Some of them didn’t. So please don’t be those who didn’t teach and read this book to your students. I am so excited that I also have a companion lesson plan with this book. So check it out on my website to order the lesson plan and more information on where you can find Your Name is a Song written by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow, Illustrated by Luisa Uribe