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Words to Love By
A look at language and how children can use their words to encourage, forgive, express gratitude, heal, and love.
A book exploring the power of words. Young readers will understand how their words can change their lives and the lives of those around them.
A book exploring the power of words. Young readers will understand how their words can change their lives and the lives of those around them.
32 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2018
66 people want to read
About the author
Rick Warren
538 books2,017 followersRichard Duane Warren is an American Baptist evangelical Christian pastor and author.He is the founder of Saddleback Church, an evangelical Baptist megachurch in Lake Forest, California. Since 2022, he is director of the Finishing the Task mission coalition.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
January 12, 2020
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Rick Warren has wowed me with this one!! What a beautiful message:
The cynic in me thinks that somewhere this message has been lost over time. The optimist is me hopes that I am wrong.
The title, Words to Love By, delivers a clear and very poignant idea. We show our love and appreciation by the words we use. The goal is to understand and use those words that will empower and uplift those who hear them. In turn, the speaker will gain a sense of satisfaction because he/she has shown love to another.
You will not be disappointed with this book. It is a message that can be and should be embraced by all, regardless of age.
Rick Warren has wowed me with this one!! What a beautiful message:
Words have power. They show our relationship with God.
The cynic in me thinks that somewhere this message has been lost over time. The optimist is me hopes that I am wrong.
The title, Words to Love By, delivers a clear and very poignant idea. We show our love and appreciation by the words we use. The goal is to understand and use those words that will empower and uplift those who hear them. In turn, the speaker will gain a sense of satisfaction because he/she has shown love to another.
You will not be disappointed with this book. It is a message that can be and should be embraced by all, regardless of age.
January 4, 2020
WORDS TO LOVE BY is the sweetest board book ever for toddlers, preschoolers and young readers. It teaches kids how to speak kindly to people to show love and kindness, because words are very powerful. We can either build each other up or tear each other down. I loved this book and if I had grandchildren I'd save it for them. However, my oldest daughter works at a Christian preschool/daycare and she's taking it for her students. Recommended.
I received a copy free. All opinions are my own.
I received a copy free. All opinions are my own.
May 5, 2025
A bright picture book about kind, and even mean, things we say and how they make others feel.
July 15, 2019
"Words may be small, but they can do big things."
What a beautiful book! It's the sort of story that parents will want to read over and over and over again, not only for their children's benefit, but for their own, as well!
"The words you chose today can change your life . . And someone else's too."
What a beautiful book! It's the sort of story that parents will want to read over and over and over again, not only for their children's benefit, but for their own, as well!
"The words you chose today can change your life . . And someone else's too."
January 27, 2020
*Disclosure* This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
About the Book:
A look at language and how children can use their words to encourage, forgive, express gratitude, heal, and love.
A book exploring the power of words. Young readers will understand how their words can change their lives and the lives of those around them.
My Review:
A sweet, little board book that teaches children the power of our words. Our words whether spoken in love or hurt or in anger. Words can heal or build friendships. Words cant be taken back once they are spoken. So we have to see the value in each word spoken over another human being.
Such a precious book just in time for Valentines Day. Rick Warren has added to his children's book line and it is a book well needed these days. I loved the writing and the illustrations. Great book for this generation!
About the Book:
A look at language and how children can use their words to encourage, forgive, express gratitude, heal, and love.
A book exploring the power of words. Young readers will understand how their words can change their lives and the lives of those around them.
My Review:
A sweet, little board book that teaches children the power of our words. Our words whether spoken in love or hurt or in anger. Words can heal or build friendships. Words cant be taken back once they are spoken. So we have to see the value in each word spoken over another human being.
Such a precious book just in time for Valentines Day. Rick Warren has added to his children's book line and it is a book well needed these days. I loved the writing and the illustrations. Great book for this generation!
May 25, 2019
Age: Preschool-1st grade
Words may seem small, but they can do big things like encourage, spread love and kindness, bring out the best in people, and let others know they're not alone. Warren focuses primarily on the impact of positive words yet doesn't forget to include the lasting power of words spoken in anger. Well balanced with a narrow focus, this book stands out in the ever-growing field of SEL books for kids.
As an evangelical pastor, Warren manages to keep the presence of God to a minimum, using the word only once (which can be exchanged for a more secular word like "we" or "the world" if needed).
Words may seem small, but they can do big things like encourage, spread love and kindness, bring out the best in people, and let others know they're not alone. Warren focuses primarily on the impact of positive words yet doesn't forget to include the lasting power of words spoken in anger. Well balanced with a narrow focus, this book stands out in the ever-growing field of SEL books for kids.
As an evangelical pastor, Warren manages to keep the presence of God to a minimum, using the word only once (which can be exchanged for a more secular word like "we" or "the world" if needed).
September 25, 2018
Words to Love By by Rick Warren, illustrated by Ag Jatkowsky. PICTURE BOOK. Zonderkidz, 2018. $18. 9780310752820
BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH
Warren’s writing and Jatkowska’s illustrations are an exuberant look at the power of words to love, to share, to hurt, and to heal. While there is a mention of God wanting us to have kind hearts, the message is universal – perfect for any classroom to promote kindness.
Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2018...
BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH
Warren’s writing and Jatkowska’s illustrations are an exuberant look at the power of words to love, to share, to hurt, and to heal. While there is a mention of God wanting us to have kind hearts, the message is universal – perfect for any classroom to promote kindness.
Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2018...
March 1, 2019
This is my new favorite picture book to read to kids about the power of words. We have spent a lot of time this year with Pre-K and K talking about kindness and acceptance, especially when people have different ideas than we do.
This book gently but powerfully illustrates how words can lift and encourage or hurt and damage.
There is one reference to God that I wouldn't read to my students, but the book is not religious in the strict sense of the word. It just encourages us all to want to be kinder and more understanding, which benefits everyone.
This book gently but powerfully illustrates how words can lift and encourage or hurt and damage.
There is one reference to God that I wouldn't read to my students, but the book is not religious in the strict sense of the word. It just encourages us all to want to be kinder and more understanding, which benefits everyone.
September 10, 2019
A look at the way that words can help, encourage, hurt, and change others' lives for good or bad.
This is told simply and in ways that kids can easily grasp. Helping kids learn to control their tongues is a challenge (it's still a challenge as adults), and this is a great tool to help kids realize the power of a word. There's one page that talks about how God wants us to use words. That's the only element that makes this a Christian book. A great book of sound advice conveyed with great illustrations good for any family or school.
This is told simply and in ways that kids can easily grasp. Helping kids learn to control their tongues is a challenge (it's still a challenge as adults), and this is a great tool to help kids realize the power of a word. There's one page that talks about how God wants us to use words. That's the only element that makes this a Christian book. A great book of sound advice conveyed with great illustrations good for any family or school.
February 28, 2021
I am always looking for opportunities to talk about kindness and compassion with my nephews. It is an important value for me. So I was thrilled to find this board book! The story is written in simple sentences and the illustrations include lots of vocabulary ideas. Words can encourage, spread love, include others, show respect, express gratitude, and heal. Words can also express anger, and words can hurt people. Words have power. Words can change your life! This is such a fun and important little book!
September 19, 2019
Words may seem small, but they can do big things like encourage, spread love and kindness, bring out the best in people, and let others know they're not alone. Warren focuses primarily on the impact of positive words yet doesn't forget to include the lasting power of words spoken in anger. Well balanced, this book stands out in the ever-growing field of SEL books for kids.
Reviewed by: Miss Kelsey, Youth and School Services, Vernon Area Public Library
Reviewed by: Miss Kelsey, Youth and School Services, Vernon Area Public Library
July 23, 2018
This kids story shows how powerful words are. The good words, the bed words, they all have an impact.
Sometimes it is better to think twice, before we say something otherwise we can hurt others.
The book teaches children to be polite and nice and use words, to express themselves to show their love and gratitude.
Because the words have power and simple word can change somebodies day.
Sometimes it is better to think twice, before we say something otherwise we can hurt others.
The book teaches children to be polite and nice and use words, to express themselves to show their love and gratitude.
Because the words have power and simple word can change somebodies day.
January 10, 2020
Ah! I love this book. Encourages kids to think about their words and the impact they have. A sweet, important message captured in a lovely children's book. Thanks for sending an ARC my way for review, Zonderkidz!
March 20, 2021
This is a really beautiful book with a powerful message. Use your words with purpose. Uplift those around you and share the goodness you have inside of you.
+ page layout
+ typography
Sunshine and I enjoyed this book very much. Enjoy it with us on our Youtube channel Storytime Sunshine.
Here is a direct link: https://youtu.be/qnkaiVlOl0E
+ page layout
+ typography
Sunshine and I enjoyed this book very much. Enjoy it with us on our Youtube channel Storytime Sunshine.
Here is a direct link: https://youtu.be/qnkaiVlOl0E
March 3, 2019
Although I do not agree with Pastor Rick Warren's views on social issues, there are things I like about this book - especially the part about listening.
April 10, 2019
Loved it. Very positive book.
September 16, 2019
This book talks about the power of words and the responsibility for choosing the right ones.
January 18, 2023
I really enjoyed this book.
July 26, 2024
It’s a keeper. Tells the importance of our words. This book will benefit people of all ages. It reminds the importance of choosing the kind words.
September 10, 2025
siento que hay conceptos un poco abstractos que podrían ilustrarse mejor para niños
November 24, 2025
I love this book! This is a great resource to remind children of the importance of kindness and the many ways they can make the world a better place. 💕
February 6, 2019
Great positive message for kids - good reminder about the power of words. not religious. could be used for storytime for themes on love, kindness, feelings...
December 21, 2019
“The words you use show others what’s in your heart. God wants you to have a heart filled with love,” Rick Warren reiterates in his children’s book, Words to Love By for Little Ones.
~ What ~
This thirty-two-page board book with rounded corners targets children ages four to eight years old. With no scary scenes, it focuses on how the words we use and speak to others can make an impact.
With colorful, engaging illustrations on every page, the story explains how important words are – both to endear or hurt others. With words being so powerful, they can spread love and kindness, show respect or thankfulness, and heal. However, they can also be spoken in anger and be hurtful. The book states that by saying what is in your heart or simply listen to others, words can change you and those around you.
~Why ~
This is a thoughtful and heartfelt way to remind young ones how words can be loving and nice or sometimes mean and cruel. I like how it promotes being kind to others through words, followed often by positive actions. Including that God wants you to have a heart full of love is appreciated and important when taught to our children. The artwork is endearing and will keep children interested.
~ Why Not ~
Those who do not like any references to God may not like this book, although He is only mentioned once (and Jesus is not). Others may not like the one negative comment about anger being unkind, but it does show the reality of saying something harmful to another person as it cannot be taken back.
~ Wish ~
I enjoyed this read and think it is important for children to learn early how words – good and bad – impact others. Since the author is a well-known Christian pastor, it would be thoughtful if his book reminded us that Jesus is the best example of showing love through His Word. Adding a Bible verse or two would be helpful.
~ Want ~
If you are looking for a way to gently show your children or grandchildren how vital it is to be careful of what we say, this one reminds us to use words to encourage, forgive, express gratitude, heal, and love.
Thanks to Zblog Squad for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.
~ What ~
This thirty-two-page board book with rounded corners targets children ages four to eight years old. With no scary scenes, it focuses on how the words we use and speak to others can make an impact.
With colorful, engaging illustrations on every page, the story explains how important words are – both to endear or hurt others. With words being so powerful, they can spread love and kindness, show respect or thankfulness, and heal. However, they can also be spoken in anger and be hurtful. The book states that by saying what is in your heart or simply listen to others, words can change you and those around you.
~Why ~
This is a thoughtful and heartfelt way to remind young ones how words can be loving and nice or sometimes mean and cruel. I like how it promotes being kind to others through words, followed often by positive actions. Including that God wants you to have a heart full of love is appreciated and important when taught to our children. The artwork is endearing and will keep children interested.
~ Why Not ~
Those who do not like any references to God may not like this book, although He is only mentioned once (and Jesus is not). Others may not like the one negative comment about anger being unkind, but it does show the reality of saying something harmful to another person as it cannot be taken back.
~ Wish ~
I enjoyed this read and think it is important for children to learn early how words – good and bad – impact others. Since the author is a well-known Christian pastor, it would be thoughtful if his book reminded us that Jesus is the best example of showing love through His Word. Adding a Bible verse or two would be helpful.
~ Want ~
If you are looking for a way to gently show your children or grandchildren how vital it is to be careful of what we say, this one reminds us to use words to encourage, forgive, express gratitude, heal, and love.
Thanks to Zblog Squad for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.
December 25, 2019
I love Love LOVE this book. These sentiments are invaluable for little ones to learn. Our words are important and affect our daily lives as well as change the lives of others.
The full-page illustrations are adorable, illuminating the power our words hold. I love the various words and phrases used. I believe in you. You’re going to be great. Do you need help? Would you like to go first? I’m sorry. The book also emphasizes that we should be careful about negative comments as well because we cannot get our words back. Leave me alone.
This book is more than entertaining. It’s inspiring and effective. Words to Love By is meaningful and impactful.
Sometimes it’s best not to speak at all.
Sometimes it’s better to just listen.
But always keep in mind…
The words you choose today can change your life…
And someone else’s too.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through the Zblog Squad.
The full-page illustrations are adorable, illuminating the power our words hold. I love the various words and phrases used. I believe in you. You’re going to be great. Do you need help? Would you like to go first? I’m sorry. The book also emphasizes that we should be careful about negative comments as well because we cannot get our words back. Leave me alone.
This book is more than entertaining. It’s inspiring and effective. Words to Love By is meaningful and impactful.
Sometimes it’s best not to speak at all.
Sometimes it’s better to just listen.
But always keep in mind…
The words you choose today can change your life…
And someone else’s too.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through the Zblog Squad.
February 7, 2024
I don't want Xtianity in my "how to be a good person" books.
I want my child to learn how to be kind without the "God wants it from you".
The book WAS great. I HAD been really enjoying reading it.
Beautiful illustrations, lovely concepts.
But I will be getting rid of it.
I want my child to learn how to be kind without the "God wants it from you".
The book WAS great. I HAD been really enjoying reading it.
Beautiful illustrations, lovely concepts.
But I will be getting rid of it.
Read
January 25, 2019Similar to "A Flicker of Hope" or "Have You Filled a Bucket Today", this book explores words and how what we say can impact other peoples days and how to be nice. Words to Love By is direct and instead of using bucket or candle analogies comes right out to encourage kids to think about the words they're saying and I enjoyed this straight-forward approach just as much as I've enjoyed the others.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews