This Is Who I Am

A reflective and affirming story about identity, heritage, and belonging

This beautifully written picture book follows a young girl as she reflects on who she is and how she came to be. Through memories, family history, and everyday experiences, she explores what it means to grow up connected to more than one culture. Her story weaves together her ancestors’ traditions, her parents’ journey to a new country, and the people and moments that have shaped her understanding of herself.

Told with rich, thoughtful prose and accompanied by expressive illustrations, the story celebrates the many layers that form a child’s identity. It gently affirms that a person is more than one place, one story, or one background. As the girl embraces her heritage and experiences, she discovers pride, confidence, and a deep sense of belonging in who she is becoming.

Key features:

• Exploration of Identity and Culture: Encourages children to reflect on heritage, family history, and personal experiences.
• Affirming Message: Reinforces self-acceptance and pride in one’s background and individuality.
• Rich, Accessible Language: Uses thoughtful prose that is engaging for children and meaningful for adults.
• Conversation Starter: Supports discussions about culture, diversity, family stories, and belonging.
• Trusted Publisher: From Magination Press, the children's imprint of the American Psychological Association, experts in child development and emotional well-being.

Rashmi Sirdeshpande is a children's author, with two young children who ask lots of questions. She writes nonfiction picture books that ignite children's curiosity and fiction that crackles with imagination.

Ruchi Mhasan studied at the Cambridge School of Art, UK. She works mostly in pencil and watercolor and enjoys capturing expressive gestures and movements, especially those of little children.