A Way with Words

by Stacy Burch, Lucy McLoughlin (Illustrations)

Captivating language, dazzling illustrations and a story that will speak to everyone, 'A Way with Words' is a book you'll read again and again.

Little Sam doesn't speak.

Not once.

Not ever.

But that doesn't mean she can't say a great many things.

Through the power of her creativity, she shows that all children deserve to be heard, regardless of how they choose to communicate.

This truly mesmerizing book is for all quiet little ones out there ... and also for anyone who wants or needs to find their voice.

Genres: Picture Books

36 pages, Hardcover

Published August 30, 2022

Reviews

[Beverly Warren · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a sensitively told story about a young girl who wouldn't speak verbally. But she was filled with thoughts and words which she expressed creatively in other ways. A very sweet story with lovely and colorful art which enhances the text. Children will love reading this, especially quiet ones, but it will also challenge those who are not so quiet to consider the nonverbal communication of their friends and family.

[Candace Spizzirri · Rating 5 out of 5]

With lovely lyrical language and gorgeous illustrations by Lucy McLoughlin, A WAY WITH WORDS is a heartwarming story about Little Sam who does not speak. Not once. Not ever. We discover that Sam has much to say.
"Sam was always watching, always thinking, always listening."
Creative and engaging. A must-read.
An action page at the back of the book includes a discussion about ways to talk with kids about nonverbal communication.

[Tamaragirardi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Burch's story celebrates the many forms of communication beyond words. The plot builds beautifully through the characters creations, and the book demonstrates how people can contribute to society in ways other than those we have often normalized. A beautiful illustration of different voices and what it actually means to have a voice.

[Helen Wu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Little Sam doesn't speak. Through the power of her creativity, she finds her own way to communicate with the world around. A powerful reminder that all children deserve to be heard. This gorgeously written and illustrated book encourages kids to embrace differences, respect others, be kind, and explore all possible ways for communication.

[Charlotte Offsay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sam doesn't speak and the world around her struggles to allow her to be different, and communicate in her own way. A beautiful reminder to embrace one another's differences and to remember that there are many non-verbal ways to communicate.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gorgeously written and illlustrated book showing the many ways that we communicate. It encourages kids to be kind and really listen, even to that which is unspoken. Great for teaching about nonverbal communication, empathy, and kindness.

[Cindy Schrauben · Rating 5 out of 5]

This beautiful picture book addresses the subject of non-verbal communication in a sensitive, inclusive way. The touching adult behavior sets the stage for acceptance and respect. The use of analogies and the beautiful art bring this story to life.

[Andi Chitty · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautiful book, my 3 year old has had me read it to her multiple times a day since we got it! She's absolutely fascinated by the fact that there are some kids (even older than her!) that can't/don't talk, and I love that she knows now that that's ok! A great conversation starter!

[Roxanne Troup · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sensitively told using beautiful imagery. A great conversation starter about non-verbal communication.

[Julie Koon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is beautiful inside and out, with thoughtful, heartwarming words and gorgeous illustrations. Such an important story and message.

[Cheri · Rating 4 out of 5]

A story about a nonverbal student and inclusion