Christopher Changes His Name

Christopher Changes His Name

"...a collection of bold illustrations and a story that will make you smile." (Oakland Press) "[This book] is written and illustrated with humor and spirit." (Quill & Quire ) What's in a name? Plenty, according to young Christopher Mulamba. He is tired of his ordinary name - millions of people are called Christopher, three in his class alone! Christopher wants to be special, so he decides to change his name! In fact, he changes his name several times. He's inspired first by a strong hero named Tiger - who has the stealth of a cat; then a wise one called The Real McCoy - who was an important inventor; and then a famous one - basketball-star Michael Jordan's team number. Christopher enjoys his unique names until he receives a check from his grandmother for his birthday and tries to deposit it. Only his real name will do, but now everyone is calling him something different! The lovable Christopher returns in this lighthearted story with a simple message about being different. It's the perfect gift for a child who's ever wanted a new name. From School Library Journal Grade 1-3AThe timeless issue of personal identity, especially in choosing one's own name, is at the heart of this joyous story. Christopher Mulamba is unhappy with his given name. There are 11 Christophers in his school, including 3 in his own classroom. The first alternative the child seizes upon is "Tiger," after his aunt tells him about the thrilling adventures of the heroic Tiger of Tobago. Next, inspired by the story of African-American science great Elijah McCoy, he becomes "The Real McCoy." After watching a particularly great Michael Jordan game, Christopher once again changes his name. Now, he is just "23." However, a new wrinkle complicates his life when his grandmother writes him a handsome birthday check and he tries to deposit it at the local bank. The check is made out to "Christopher Mulamba," but the boy trying to cash it is known far and wide as "23." The resolution is as happy and cheerful as Condy's bold, pulsating cartoons. Children will find delight in both the words and pictures of this charming tale.AJerry D. Flack, University of Colorado, Colorado SpringsCopyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.