The Power of Your Name

by Jyoti Rajan Gopal, Olivia Sua (illustrator)

Genres: Picture Books

48 pages, Hardcover

Published August 26, 2025

About the author

Jyoti Rajan Gopal is a writer, mom and Kindergarten teacher. Growing up, she lived in Thailand, Indonesia, Myanmar, India and China. She now lives in New York, in a quirky old Victorian in Yonkers, with her husband, where they raised their two daughters. Her favorite place in the house is the wrap around porch where she loves to gather with family or friends, read, write and drink coffee.

Jyoti writes stories that speak to her heart, that reflect her multiple identities, that she wishes her daughters had growing up, that she wishes her students had now.
When not writing or teaching, she loves to read - a lot! - work in her garden, dance and explore the many New York State Park trails.

Reviews

[Natasha Khan Kazi · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Power of Your Name by Jyoti Rajan Gopal, with artwork by Olivia Sua, is a luminous celebration of identity and belonging. Written as a praise poem, the text flows with the rhythm of spoken word, full of music, movement, and beat, while offering a fresh and powerful take on the classic ABC book format. Each page highlights the beauty and meaning behind names, reminding readers that every name carries a story worth honoring. Olivia Sua’s layered cut paper collages in jewel-toned colors add richness and depth, making every spread a piece of art. A stunning book to read aloud, to share in classrooms, and to treasure at home.

[K G · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lyrical prose journey into the concept of identity. Jyoti Gopal's book is the perfect conversation starter for children and adults alike. Her rhythmic writing is fun, meaningful, and empowering--it will make any reader want to speak the text out loud, again and again. The art--a mixture of media forms--is frame ready, creative, inventive, and adds a poignant visual to Gopal's engaging lyricism. This book is a perfect gift for new or expecting parents, children, and classrooms, alike!

[Stephanie Wildman · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this wonderful, lyrical, must-be-read-aloud picture book, gorgeously illustrated by Olivia Sua, Jyoti Rajan Gopol brings her special style of musicality with words to explore the power of names. The book lends itself to a read and repeat style, engaging young children, while older children will understand its wisdom on another level. This book could serve as the basis of a classroom writing prompt in poetry or prose to encourage students to explore their own names.

[Sheri · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lyrical picture book about celebrating your name in a poetic form. Your name is special and is a feast of sounds when someone says it. This book describes how you got your name and the ring of it. There is hope in a name and a reminder of who you are. There is a real joy in hearing it and embracing the sound and the meaning of a name. When someone says their name repeat it and confirm that you heard it and say it correctly. IT is important to say the name correctly and give them validation.

[Lydia Lukidis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lyrical and empowering book that celebrates identity, heritage, and pride in one’s name. The rhythmic text paired with expressive art encourages children to embrace who they are. Perfect for read-alouds, it opens discussions on self-confidence and respecting cultural differences, making it both meaningful and uplifting.

[Kelsey Gross · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE POWER OF YOUR NAME is a soaring, inspiring book that encourages kids to be proud of their own names and their own uniqueness. The poetic text is comforting and pairs well with the gorgeous papercut illustrations. This book is so affirming for all young people! Highly recommend this lovely book for all children’s bookshelves!

[Jilanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

What does a name contain? Multitudes, yes? Lyrical, rhythmic, and vibrantly illustrated, this book sings the truth—that your name is important and a celebration. It can be part of your familial tradition. It can be a song. You should speak it proudly. The rhythmic nature of the text and the amazing illustrations make for an engaging read aloud!

[Anitra Rowe Schulte · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The Power of Your Name” is a picture book that sings a sweet and strong song of truth and affirmation to young readers. It highlights all the things that a name is and can be - a beat, a celebration, and so, so much more. Filled with beautiful language, so pleasing to read aloud, this lovely picture book is meant to be shared with a beloved child as a reminder of the gift of who they are.

[Marzieh Abbas · Rating 5 out of 5]

An empowering, affirming book told in lyrical prose, celebrating names and the power they hold. With the vibrant pictures, and fun up-beat rhythm of story, this is sure to make a great readaloud and serve as a brilliant conversation starter!

[Kari Gonzalez · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Power Of Your Name: A Praise Poem by Jyoti Gopal is a gorgeous read aloud celebrating the beauty of every name with the added bonus of being a primer. The whimsical illustrations pair perfectly with the rich, thought-provoking language and is such a treat to read!

[Nathan Christopher · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful and unique ABC book! It's full of energy, warmth... celebrating names in such a sweet, uplifting way. Each letter brings a burst of positivity like a little pep talk to remind us all that we're special. The art adds texture and brightness that matches the rhythm of the words perfectly.
It’s the kind of book that makes reading aloud feel extra special, like you're reminding your kids how unique they are. Highly recommended.

[Jessica Stremer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is lyrical, inspiring and so much more! The art is mesmerizing. You'll discover something new with every read. Highly recommend!

[Bonnie Kelso · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun book for kids about loving your name and who you are. Great for building self-esteem. The cut paper illustrations are delightful and fit the theme of the story perfectly. Well done!

[Elizabeth Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an enjoyable book! Children will ask for it over and over at story time and read-alouds. Colorful illustrations and great writing.