Why Is My Name Vecihi? (Book)

“Why Is My Name Vecihi?” is a work in children’s literature that explores the impact of names on identity and the experiences children face within their social context. Written by İlgi Burak and illustrated by Rabia Şevval Keleş, the book was published in 2024 by Hayykitap. Throughout the narrative, issues such as bullying, mockery, and identity questioning that children encounter because of their names are woven together with themes of courage, friendship, and pursuing one’s dreams.

Plot and Narrative Structure

The story centers on a child named Vecihi, who is mocked by his peers because of his name. Vecihi harbors a deep passion for airplanes and the sky. However, on his path toward realizing this dream, he must confront not only personal challenges but also societal perceptions attached to names. Through characters bearing names such as Recep, Şaban, Ramazan, Döne, Abuzittin, Nurittin, Saniye, and Olgun, the book reveals how other children experience similar exclusion and labeling. In this context, the work presents not merely an individual story but also a narrative that questions society’s influence on children.

Themes and Messages

Identity and Name: The book reveals that a name is not merely a “label” but a factor that directly shapes how an individual is perceived within society and affects their self-esteem.

Bullying and Empathy: The mockery and bullying children endure because of their names are presented in the book as a social issue. Readers are made aware of the psychological impact such behavior has on individuals.

Courage and Dreams: Vecihi’s story emphasizes that pursuing one’s dreams requires courage and the determination to act decisively in the face of obstacles.

Friendship and Solidarity: The bonds formed between the characters highlight the role of friendship and solidarity during difficult times.

Literary Features

In İlgi Burak’s writing, a simple yet emotionally rich narrative style is chosen to suit the world of children. The story blends elements of adventure with slices of everyday life, allowing young readers to experience a reading journey that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Rabia Şevval Keleş’s illustrations add a visual dimension to the text, enhancing the storytelling.

Place in Children’s Literature

The work offers a distinct focus by addressing the relationship between names and identity, in addition to the more commonly explored themes of adventure and friendship in children’s literature. By making visible the identity-based challenges children may encounter at an early age, the book transcends the level of a personal story and assumes a dimension of social observation. In this regard, it can be regarded as one of the examples in children’s literature that contributes to the exploration of concepts such as identity, belonging, and self-confidence.