The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi is a book that has an interesting, yet subtle adoption connection. Although it features a Korean girl, she is NOT an adoptee. Unhei moves from Korea to the United States. The Name Jar also presents some Korean cultural elements as part of the story: the beautifully carved name block presented as a treasured gift from Unhei’s grandmother, the foods, the calligraphy and the ethnic neighborhood near her home.

Like many adoptees who made the same journey, she must learn a new language, adapt to a new country and culture plus discover where she fits in this new world.

Initially, Unhei decides that the easiest way to smooth out her “difference” is to surrender her Korean name in favor of a name that sounds more American and easy to pronounce. She invites her classmates to make suggestions for her new name and place them in a jar. She allows herself one week to decide.

The other children fill the jar with their selections. Unhei spends the week trying them on. Everyone is excited—so, mission accomplished, right? Not quite. She discovers that the value of a name far exceeds ease in spelling or pronunciation; it signifies the person’s essence. She determines the only name that suits her, is Unhei–her own. She embraces her name, shares its meaning (Grace) with her classmates. Readers will recognize the importance of being, liking and accepting oneself.

What is the AQ* (Adoption-attunement Quotient) of this book? How does it speak to adoptive families? The most obvious connection is the story line that features moving from Korea to the United States and the common experience inherent in such a significant transition. Another important asset is the honoring of the Korean culture and traditions and of taking pride in one’s heritage. Finally, The Name Jar features a Korean character, as well as a diverse cast of schoolmates and neighbors. Hooray for #Diversity!