What's in a Name?: Friendship, Identity and History in Modern Multicultural Britain

What's in a Name? is a book by Sheela Banerjee that explores the personal histories of friends and family through their names, tracing their heritage across centuries and continents. It is a celebration of Britain's rich multiculturalism, an ode to friendship, and a testament to all the stories held within our names.

Format: Hardback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 03 August 2023
Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton

A captivating exploration of the profound significance of names, "What's in a Name?" delves into the personal histories of individuals and their families, tracing their heritage across centuries and continents. Written by Sheela Banerjee, the book seamlessly blends history, memoir, and politics, celebrating Britain's rich multiculturalism and the stories held within our names.

Through her intimate narratives, Banerjee unravels the personal stories of her friends and family, revealing the intricate connections between their names and their cultural backgrounds. From west London to British India, from 1960s Jamaica to pre-Revolutionary Russia, the book showcases the diverse tapestry of heritage that shapes our identities.

What sets "What's in a Name?" apart is its ability to blend personal stories with social histories, providing a compelling combination of personal narratives and broader historical context. Banerjee's writing is filled with wit, heart, and detail, making the book an engaging and enlightening read.

The book has received widespread acclaim from critics and readers alike. Michael Rosen, the New Statesman, praised it as a "brilliantly enlightening book," noting that it is "at times moving, at others ironic, full of insights and detail." The Irish Times described it as a "kaleidoscopic portrait of the UK," praising Banerjee's "insight and compassion."

Priscilla Morris, the author of "Black Butterflies," called it "absolutely fascinating," praising the "stories woven into this superb book that will stay with me for a long time." Preeti Dhillon, the author of "The Shoulders We Stand On," praised the book for its "compelling combination of personal stories and social histories, told with great heart, wit, and detail."

In conclusion, "What's in a Name?" is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the power of names and the rich tapestry of our cultural heritage. With its captivating storytelling, insightful analysis, and celebration of diversity, this book offers a unique perspective on the human experience and the stories that shape our identities.

Weight: 442g
Dimension: 146 x 224 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529367591