Dickens & Rumi
Cover of WHAT CAN I SAY?

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WHAT CAN I SAY?

Catherine Newman

Explore the age guidance, content cautions, positive qualities, and supporting notes for WHAT CAN I SAY? by Catherine Newman. This book is recommended for ages 8+; content notes include LGBTQIA characters, Romance, Strong language; positive qualities include Educational value, Kindness & empathy.

Ages 8+Source checked

Why this age? Written for children and focused on everyday social problem-solving. Some topics involve nuanced feelings, conflict, and boundaries, but the treatment is accessible and non-graphic. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age8+

Strongest cautions

  • LGBTQIA characters1/5
  • Romance1/5
  • Strong language1/5

Strongest positives

  • Educational value5/5
  • Kindness & empathy5/5
  • Positive messages5/5

What’s in it?

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

The book discusses how to avoid rude language and name-calling.

LGBTQIA characters1/5
Why this rating?

The book uses inclusive language, but does not feature explicit LGBTQIA storylines.

Romance1/5
Why this rating?

Romance is not a focus of this communication guide.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

It encourages children to have the courage to apologize, set boundaries, and speak up.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

Encourages creative approaches to problem-solving in social conflict.

Diverse representation3/5
Why this rating?

The book portrays diverse social situations and emphasizes inclusive communication styles.

Educational value5/5
Why this rating?

It serves as an excellent practical guide for social-emotional learning and communication skills.

Kindness & empathy5/5
Why this rating?

Kindness is the cornerstone of the advice provided throughout the book.

Positive messages5/5
Why this rating?

The central theme is the importance of kindness, empathy, and effective communication.

Good role models4/5
Why this rating?

The book encourages kids to be thoughtful, kind, and responsible communicators.

Family discussion

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

  1. What is one new thing you learned or became curious about?
  2. How are identity and relationships presented, and how do they shape the characters’ experiences?
  3. Which choice in WHAT CAN I SAY? would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in WHAT CAN I SAY?, and what caused that change?
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These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

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