"Even some of her teachers said it wrong!
is mina here?
Mirha didn't want to be called Mina for
the rest of the year, but she was too shy
to speak up and correct her teacher."
We read this book night after night when my granddaughters were here in July. They had many questions, and some opinions about it. We practiced ahead of reading it every time!
The first day of school is not always easy. For Mirha that is especially true.
"MIR - ha
MIR as in miracle
HA as in haha!"
Mirha is so excited to be at school. Her entire family is encouraging and wish her well. She has been waiting for a long time. Despite being shy, she stands to introduce herself. The other kids in her class, and her teacher, have great difficulty remembering what she considers a pretty easy name. It makes her angry when they don't really seem to be trying. Her sadness is reflected in her thinking about changing her name to something easier, that everyone could pronounce.
Her return from school sparks a conversation with her mama about changing her name. Her mama explains that Mirha is a name that means 'happiness' in Arabic. It was given because of Mirha's gift of laughter. Yes, it's different but it has great meaning. She tells her that people around the world well remember some very difficult names - Tchaikovsky being one of them.
Mirha listens and hears what her mama is saying. Her return to school has her taking the time to repeat her name for those who need help. Other children then feel comfortable explaining the meaning of their own names.
Engaging, expressive artwork shows a cast of diverse characters, and scenes that generate understanding for the frustration Mirha feels when others mispronounce her name. A welcome message honestly shared.
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