Andy, That's My Name

Andy, That's My Name is a delightful picture book that introduces readers to Andy, a young boy who, despite his small stature, possesses a remarkable sense of self. Andy's prized possession is his wagon, meticulously filled with letters that spell out his name. This wagon isn't just a toy; it's a portable declaration of his identity, accompanying him everywhere. The story takes a poignant turn when the older kids, seeing the fun in Andy's letter wagon, decide to incorporate it into their games. However, their inclusion of Andy comes at the cost of his beloved letters, leaving him excluded from their fun. The narrative beautifully captures Andy's brave act of reclaiming his identity and, by extension, his name, by taking his wagon and heading home. This charming book undeniably deserves a spot on any list of Tomie dePaola's best works. DePaola was a master storyteller, and in "Andy, That's My Name," he expertly tackles themes of belonging, individuality, and self-worth through a relatable childhood experience. The book's bright, full-color illustrations are classic dePaola, full of warmth and energy that perfectly complement the story's message. He skillfully crafts a narrative that, while simple, resonates deeply with young readers, validating their feelings of exclusion and empowering them to assert their own importance. The subtle yet powerful lesson about the significance of one's name and identity makes this a timeless addition to dePaola's celebrated bibliography.