My Name is Yoon (2014) Parents Guide: Is the book OK for kids?

Name: My Name is Yoon
Rating: 5.0 (3 reviews)
Author: Helen Recorvits

Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language

Disliking her name as written in English, Korean-born Yoon, or "shining wisdom," refers to herself as "cat," "bird," and "cupcake," as a way to feel more comfortable in her new school and new country.

Picture Book • 2014 • 32 pages • Lexile 410L (early elementary reading difficulty)

by Helen Recorvits

5.0

Average rating by Bontent members

Age

My Name is Yoon is a gentle picture book that explores the emotional transition of a young Korean girl immigrating to the United States. It earns its recommended age through its sensitive portrayal of cultural identity, the struggle to adapt to a new language, and the feelings of isolation that come with being an outsider. There are no concerns regarding violence, language, sex, or substances; the focus remains entirely on Yoon's… Sign up for the full guide

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Is My Name is Yoon appropriate for kids?

Content severity in My Name is Yoon

Sex None 0/10

Violence None 0/10

Language None 0/10

Substances None 0/10

Themes Mild 2/10

What happens in My Name is Yoon, moment by moment

p. 2 🔥 Mature Themes 1/10
p. 4 🔥 Mature Themes 2/10
p. 6 🔥 Mature Themes 1/10

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Sex and nudity in My Name is Yoon

There are no sexual references, romantic subplots, or instances of nudity within this picture book. The narrative remains strictly focused on Yoon’s personal reflections as a young child and her innocent interactions at school and at home with her parents. Gabi Guba’s illustrations depict characters in modest, everyday school and domestic attire suitable for the setting. Parents will find the content entirely wholesome and appropriate for the youngest readers. The book maintains a respectful and clean tone from…

Violence and gore in My Name is Yoon

The book contains no physical violence, depictions of harm, or aggressive behavior between characters. The primary tension is emotional rather than physical, centering on Yoon's internal struggle to feel comfortable in her new environment. Even when Yoon feels excluded by other children, there is no pushing or shouting involved. The illustrations are soft and gentle, reflecting the quiet and contemplative nature of the story. Conflict is resolved through understanding and teacher-led kindness rather than…

Language in My Name is Yoon

No profanity, name-calling, or inappropriate language is used throughout the story. The dialogue and narration are written in a simple, respectful manner that is appropriate for early readers and classroom settings. The story actually highlights the beauty and difficulty of learning new words, focusing on the mechanics of the English alphabet versus Korean symbols. Language is portrayed as a bridge between cultures rather than a source of crude expression. There are no 'mild' insults or bathroom humor present.

Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in My Name is Yoon

There is no mention or depiction of alcohol, tobacco, or illegal substances in this book. The illustrations and text focus on domestic and educational settings where such topics are never introduced. Characters are seen in a classroom or a family dining setting where only appropriate foods and school supplies are present. The focus remains on the immigrant experience and the classroom environment. This title is completely free of any adult-themed substance use.

Mature themes in My Name is Yoon

The book centers on themes of identity, immigration, and belonging. It touches on the sadness of leaving one's home country and the struggle to integrate into a new culture where things feel different and uncomfortable. Yoon experiences a quiet sense of loss as she navigates the school day. This exploration of the 'outsider' perspective provides an excellent starting point for discussions on empathy and resilience. The story ultimately celebrates the strength found in embracing one's own name and heritage while…

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is My Name is Yoon appropriate for kids?

Bontent's parent guide suggests My Name is Yoon is best for ages 5+. My Name is Yoon is a gentle picture book that explores the emotional transition of a young Korean girl immigrating to the United States. It earns its recommended age through its sensitive portrayal of cultural identity…

What age rating does My Name is Yoon have?

Books don't carry official age ratings. My Name is Yoon is published for a Picture Book audience, and Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 5+.

What reading level is My Name is Yoon?

My Name is Yoon is 32 pages and its reading level is Lexile 410L (early elementary reading difficulty). Bontent recommends it for ages 5+.

What is My Name is Yoon about?

Is there sex or nudity in My Name is Yoon?

How violent is My Name is Yoon?

Is the language in My Name is Yoon appropriate for kids?

Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking depicted in My Name is Yoon?

What mature themes appear in My Name is Yoon?

Where can I read the full My Name is Yoon parent guide?

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