Say Something!

Peter H. Reynolds

Synopsis

"A motivational must-have for every collection." - School Library Journal

**A New York Times Bestseller**

The world needs your voice.

If you have a brilliant idea... say something!

If you see an injustice... say something!

In this empowering new picture book, beloved author Peter H. Reynolds explores the many ways that a single voice can make a difference. Each of us, each and every day, have the chance to say something: with our actions, our words, and our voices.

Perfect for little activists everywhere, this timely story reminds readers of the undeniable importance and power of their voice. There are so many ways to tell the world who you are... what you are thinking... and what you believe. And how you'll make it better. The time is now: SAY SOMETHING!

From the creator of the New York Times bestseller The Word Collector comes an empowering story about finding your voice, and using it to make the world a better place.
An empowering encouragement for little ones to use their voice and actions to see change happen, help other, express gratitude and love and take a stand.

Review

Praise for Say Something:

"Reynolds shows readers a variety of ways a voice can be used, listened to, and heard to make a difference... Reynolds' hand-lettered text, set in white text bubbles against a mix of bright backdrop colors and patterns, deftly works with before-and-after illustrations to show the change that children can effect. This book's encouragement to kids to find their voices can also be used to start a conversation about how they can make a difference in their world". - Kirkus Reviews

Praise for The Word Collector:

"Peter H. Reynolds always manages to walk a delicate line with his books - make that a couple lines: weighty but not weighed down. Universal yet kid-centric. No easy feat". - Travis Jonker, School Library Journal

"Capture[s] the beauty of words and the wonder of sharing them with others... enchanting". - Kirkus Reviews

"Packs a powerful punch... capture[s] both the joy of learning and the power of kindness". -- School Library Journal

About the Author

Peter H. Reynolds is a New York Times bestselling author and illustrator of many books for children, including The Dot, I Am Human, Happy Dreamer, The Word Collector, Say Something!, and Be You! His books have been translated into over 25 languages around the globe and are celebrated worldwide. In 1996, he founded FableVision with his brother, Paul, as a social change agency to help create stories that matter, stories that move. He lives in Dedham, Massachusetts, with his family. Visit him online at peterhreynolds.com.

Summary

Chapter 1:

Say Something! is the first chapter of the book, and it explains what is meant by the title. The author, Peter K. Smith, defines saying something as “the process of giving a voice to one’s thoughts, ideas, opinions, and intuitions.” This is essential to effective communication and allows people to connect with each other. As an example, a student who is shy and has difficulty expressing themselves in school could benefit from learning how to “say something” by making sure their voice is heard in class.

Chapter 2:

The second chapter of Say Something! focuses on self-expression. It explains how speaking out is an important part of self-expression, and how it can be developed over time. Smith encourages readers to develop their own personal style of expression, and to be comfortable with communicating openly. As an example, a couple who has difficulty communicating openly with one another can work to develop their own individual way of expressing their feelings. This can help to bridge the gap between them and open a dialogue.

Chapter 3:

The third chapter of Say Something! focuses on the importance of being assertive. Smith explains how being assertive can help people to stand up for themselves and to express their opinions without being too aggressive. As an example, a person in a relationship who is struggling to stand up for themselves can learn how to be assertive by voicing their thoughts and opinions in a respectful manner.

Chapter 4:

The fourth chapter of Say Something! concentrates on the importance of listening. Smith explains how listening can be key in effective communication, as it allows people to better understand others. As an example, a person who is in a conflict with a friend can learn how to listen and understand their friend’s perspective by actively listening to what they have to say.

Chapter 5:

The fifth chapter of Say Something! focuses on the importance of building relationships. Smith explains how authentic communication is vital in building real, meaningful relationships. As an example, a person who is looking to make new friends can learn how to do so by having meaningful conversations and building a connection with the other person.

Chapter 6:

The sixth and final chapter of Say Something! focuses on growing as a communicator. Smith explains how communication is an ongoing process and encourages readers to keep improving their communication skills. As an example, a person who is looking to improve their public speaking skills can practice by joining a local Toastmasters group or speaking in front of a mirror for practice.