Dickens & Rumi
Cover of MY NAME IS NOT ALEXANDER

book

MY NAME IS NOT ALEXANDER

Jennifer Fosberry

A boy learns about great men and the champion inside himself. (Ages 4 and up)

Ages 4+Source checked

Why this age? Best suited to preschool and early elementary readers; the story is gentle and accessible, with historical references that may be most meaningful with adult discussion. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age4+

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character1/5
  • Frightening scenes1/5

Strongest positives

  • Creativity & curiosity5/5
  • Educational value4/5
  • Good role models3/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character1/5
Why this rating?

Death is not a topic in this story.

Frightening scenes1/5
Why this rating?

The book is whimsical and not scary.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience2/5
Why this rating?

The character shows the 'courage' to explore different identities.

Creativity & curiosity5/5
Why this rating?

The book is a celebration of childhood imagination.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

Features a range of historical figures, though limited in scope due to the book's format.

Educational value4/5
Why this rating?

Introduces children to several notable historical figures and their accomplishments in a simple, engaging story. It encourages curiosity about history, though details are necessarily simplified.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

The tone is supportive and encouraging.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

The message emphasizes self-acceptance and the value of imagination.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Alexander is a positive, imaginative role model for children.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What was the most imaginative idea in the story, and what would you add to it?
  2. How did the story approach death or loss? What helped the characters cope?
  3. Which choice in MY NAME IS NOT ALEXANDER would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in MY NAME IS NOT ALEXANDER, and what caused that change?
Discuss this title with other parents

Community reactions

What families noticed

Add your perspective

Sign in from the homepage to rate this title.

Where to get it

Find in a libraryBuy on Bookshop.orgBuy on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate and Bookshop.org affiliate, Dickens & Rumi may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

If you liked this

Try something nearby

Related by age fit, format, and catalogue context.

You’re hereMY NAME IS NOT ALEXANDER
UNLIMITED SQUIRRELS: I WANT TO SLEEP UNDER THE STARS!Mo WillemsAges 5+A House for Hermit CrabEric Carle · 1987Ages 3+I LOST MY TOOTH!Mo WillemsAges 4+

These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

Report an incorrect rating