My Name is a Gift by Zeshan Akhter (author) and Asa Gilland (illustrator)

INCLUDED IN EMPATHY LAB’S ‘READ FOR EMPATHY COLLECTION’ 2025.

AS SEEN ON MILKSHAKE’S STORY DEN IN MARCH 2025!

LONGLISTED FOR THE DIVERSE BOOK AWARDS 2025!

A heartfelt and touching celebration of the names we’re given, told through Zeshan Akhter’s lyrical text and paired with Asa Gilland’s stunning illustrations.

When I met Daddy and fitted in his hands, I didn’t have a name.
So Daddy and Mummy whispered one in my ear.
My name is the first present I ever got.
It came wrapped in Daddy and Mummy’s love.

On the day Sitara is born, she receives a very special gift from her parents – her name. As Sitara grows, some people tumble up her name in their mouths until it’s not her name any more. So Sitara learns about the history, tradition and culture that went into choosing her name, giving her the confidence to help others say it right.

This heartwarming story not only teaches us the significance of our names, but it also highlights that trying to say names correctly, or asking if you’re unsure, goes a long way. The book also includes a spread for a child to fill in about their own name. Perfect to share with both an individual child or to read aloud with a group who are fans of The Proudest Blue, Every House on Every Street and Julian is a Mermaid.