The Boy Who Tried to Shrink His Name

A warm and uplifting story that encourages young readers to celebrate their authentic selves and that proclaims no one should ever have to shrink themselves to fit in.

The Boy Who Tried to Shrink His Name encourages readers to take up space and support each other with respect and kindness. ​Perfect for fans of Alma and How She Got Her Name and Your Name Is a Song, this charming picture book is from author Sandhya Parappukkaran and illustrator Michelle Pereira.

When Zimdalamashkermishkada starts at a new school, he knows he’ll have to introduce himself to lots of new people. He trips over his long name and decides to shrink it down to the shorter, simpler Zim. The nickname works fine for introductions, but deep down, it doesn’t feel right.

It’s not until a new friend sees him for who he truly is that Zimdalamashkermishkada finds the confidence to step proudly into his long name.

“This sensitive book will make an excellent lead-in to age-appropriate discussions about difference and belonging.” —Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books (starred review)