Henderson, J. & Na’kuset. I Am My Name. Illustrated by Onedove. 2025. 40p. Knopf Books for Young Readers, $19.99 (9780593648766).
Recommended grade level(s): K-2
Rating
Borrow it OR Buy it for the Adoptee Bookshelf: 4 Stars
Identities Represented
- Indigenous, Cree, ’60s scoop adoptee
- Jewish adoptee
- Canadian ’60s scoop
Review
An autobiographical picture book by Cree activist, Na’kuset. Narrated as if from a child’s memories, Na’kuset recounts her relationship with her sister, the night they were separated, and how, overnight, she awoke to a new mother, a new father, a new sister, a new brother, a new home, and a new name. Through a stunning mix of traditional watercolor and digital illustrations, the images transport the reader back in time. We see how the “traditional” adoptee narrative of gratitude shames Na’kuset for feeling grief and loss. The one place where Na’kuset feels seen is at her Bubbie’s house. It is Na’kuset’s Bubbie who helps her to find her sister and sends her home to reunite with her roots. Written collaboratively by a team of individuals who each have a personal connection to the story, it is clear how much care was put into crafting this narrative to educate young children about the ‘60s scoop.
Perspectives:
- Na’kuset’s story is centered
- The story of indigenous foster care children and adoptive children during the ‘60s scoop era of adoption
- The backmatter provides significant context about each contributor’s personal connection
- Bubbie’s character is a beautiful example of how an adoptive family can support and be a lifeline for adoptees like Na’kuset
- A necessary story that challenges dominant narratives about adoption during this time, and the illustrations show the emotional grief this young child experienced
Practice:
- Picture book read-aloud about family structure & identity
- Educators and caregivers reading this book should preview and prepare for classroom discussion around the emotional themes that arise (you may need to do some research!)
- A beautiful lesson on social-emotional intelligence and how to seek out trusted adults for help
- Great for a unit for 3rd grade+ who are studying Indigenous history and Indian Boarding Schools to expand understanding of systems used to meet the same purposes
The Adoptee Bookshelf 