Book Review: Just Sayin'

Just Sayin' is the story of a young girl, Cassie Callahan, who almost gets a new dad, brother, and sister. Almost because, well, something happened. But nobody knows what or why. Cassie's mom, Jennifer, and Nick's dad, Trent, were supposed to get married. However, they seem to change their minds overnight and things completely change. Cassie stays with her grandmother while her mom goes out of town to sort things out, and Nick's family moves to another state. Needless to say, Cassie and Nick are heartbroken that they don't get to be siblings and that they don't get to see each other often, but they continue their friendship through writing letters. Throughout the story, readers learn that both Cassie and Nick love insults, so much so that they even like to watch game shows about making insults. In the end, Cassie and Nick come up with a scheme to see each other and to get their parents back together. They both apply for a position on a game show with their favorite insulter, the King, and they both make it. As a result, both parents end up at the game show and (*spoiler alert) are able to forgive each other and get back together. 

This story has so many messages that can speak to such a broad audience. Though it is a children's book, I actually enjoyed it. Cassie and Nick both embark on a journey of learning what the Bible says about insulting others, and readers are able to see a change in their attitudes towards insults. Not only that, but so many children will definitely be able to relate to both Cassie and Nick. Children who have lost a parent or a parent has walked out of their life can relate to these kids. They know the feelings and emotions that Cassie and Nick describe in this book. 

Overall, I think this was a sweet story. I loved that the book was written as the letters between Cassie, Nick, Grandma, the King of Insults, and more. Readers will be taken along as Cassie and Nick learn that words can be used to tear down or to build others up. They will also be able to see a story of trusting God and forgiving others. I would definitely recommend this book to children, especially in grades 4-8. I received this book for free from Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for my honest review. 

To learn more about the author, click here

To read the first chapter, click here