Hannah Is My Name
Book Summary:
Hannah Is My Name tells the story of a young Taiwanese immigrant who moves to the United States with her family and must adjust to a new language, culture, and identity while living under an assumed name due to immigration challenges. Through Hannah’s experiences, the book explores feelings of fear, hope, and belonging as her family works toward legal residency. The story highlights the emotional impact of immigration on children and families.
Recommended Questions:
Why was Hannah given a different name when she came to the United States? How did using a different name affect how she felt about herself and her identity?
Where did Hannah and her family immigrate from, and why was leaving their home country such a difficult decision?
On the first page, Hannah explains that her father believes, “When we are Americans, we will be free to say what we think. An American girl is free to be anything she chooses.”
Which U.S. documents protect these freedoms and rights, and why are they important?The book describes how Hannah’s family is not allowed to work while their green card paperwork is being processed, a process that takes over a year. Do you think this policy is fair? Why or why not? What challenges might this create for families?
The news of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s death provides a clue about when the story takes place. What major events were happening in Hannah’s home country at this time, and what was happening in the United States?
How would you describe the role of the doorman in the story? In what ways does he help Hannah and her family, and what might he represent?
How does the story show challenges immigrant families face that may not be visible or understood by others in their community?
How might Hannah’s immigration experience be similar to or different from the experiences of immigrants today?
Why is it important to learn about immigration through the perspectives of children?
How can understanding stories like Hannah’s help us become more welcoming, empathetic, and inclusive in our schools and communities?
** Learn more about the author and her inspiration for this story http://belleyang.com/childrens-books/hannah-is-my-name.html**
NCSS Theme 4: Individual Development and Identity
This book illustrates how Hannah navigates her sense of self while balancing her cultural heritage and her new American identity. Hannah’s struggle with her name, language, and sense of belonging shows how personal identity is shaped by social, cultural, and political contexts. Students see how immigration experiences can influence confidence, family relationships, and self-understanding.
Social Justice Anchor Standard 3: Recognition of multiple identities people hold
The book shows Hannah’s journey toward embracing both her Chinese heritage and her American identity. As she learns to feel pride in who she is, students are encouraged to reflect on their own identities and recognize the dignity and worth of people from all cultural backgrounds.
WA Civics 1: Understands key ideals, principles and documents of the United States
Hannah Is My Name explores the core American ideals of freedom, equality, and individual rights. Hannah’s father expresses belief in freedoms such as free speech and opportunity, which are protected by foundational U.S. documents like the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. Through Hannah’s experiences, students examine how these ideals guide the nation while also considering the challenges of fully realizing them for everyone.
