Laugh like a Kid Again: Live Without Regret and Leave Footsteps Worth Following

by Phil Callaway

“Phil Callaway seasons our lives with joy and laughter drawn from the deep well of living. Splash through this book and see if you’re not refreshed. I double-dog dare you.”
—Chris Fabry, New York Times bestselling author and host of Chris Fabry Live

Laughter is a windshield wiper. It won’t stop the rain, but it will keep you going.

Life was funnier when we were five. Grownups tripped on a rake and we laughed for hours. Then came headlines and deadlines. Downturns and disappointments. Laugh Like a Kid Again is for anyone who wonders amid pressing anxieties—who stole my joy?

From the tender to the hilarious, these lighthearted stories will help you smile. You’ll encounter a prodigal dog, an incoming tornado, an unexpected afternoon in prison, and where to go when you have nine minutes to live. You’ll hear whispers of a God who…
loves you more than you imagine
holds your hand when you’re handed more than you can handle
does awesome work in the dark
Whether you face dark times or just need a good laugh, this “masterpiece of joy” will show you how to leave a lasting legacy, look up, and laugh again.

Genres: Christian Living, Humor, Nonfiction

208 pages, Paperback

Published June 9, 2020

Reviews

[Joan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Laughter is good medicine, we're told. Who doesn't need some laughter now? Callaway does a good job of giving readers lots of reasons to laugh. He tells funny stories on himself. He includes one liners, some that will make you groan. He has misprints and auto-correct lines that are crazy. There were times the tears rolled and I'm not one who laughs frequently.

I really like that Callaway includes life lessons in with his humorous stories. They are not ones to hit you over the head but rather subtle lessons included in the memoir like text.

Callaway is a grandpa so this book would appeal to older readers. But we all could use a laugh and this book is good for a number of them.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Vivi · Rating 5 out of 5]

A balm to the soul! This book consists of many short chapters that deal with different areas of life and handle them with humor, but it's not a comedic work. Instead it tries to find the beauty and also humorous sides of hard life realities without downplaying them. That's what actually makes it so precious!
I had a bit of a hard time understanding what connected the individual chapters with each other - a real unifying thread through the book was missing, but that doesn't really matter, since everyone can relate to the topics mentioned and it is immensely encouraging and hopefilled.

I thank Netgalley and Harvest House Publishers for an ARC to read and review.

[Louise Douglas · Rating 4 out of 5]

We are in some weird times right now and life doesn’t feel easy, so when I spotted this book title on NetGalley, I immediately requested it – the little cereal smile on the cover definitely drew me in too!

As the author says:

“…how can we laugh when times are hard and people disappoint? How can we lighten up when storms threaten and anxiety reigns? May these stories remind us that we are loved unreasonably, that we are in good hands, that God has always done amazing things in the dark.”

And you know what, the stories in this book did just that. Each chapter not too long, and like the previous book I read, would probably have been better spaced out over a longer period of time, but I read the book over just a few days. But each chapter made me smile and reminded me of the God who loves me and is the source of my joy.

“Lasting joy is elusive until we understand who we are and whose we are.”

Each chapter started with a ‘dad joke’ and then a quote from someone famous, then continued with a personal story from the author. When I imported the preview copy of this book to my kindle, Amazon messed up the formatting which led to a bit of confusion to start with when I thought the joke was attributed to the author of the quote too – it seemed a bit too unlikely!

I do love a good joke though, the ones that are so bad they’re good are my favourites.

“I was sitting on a plane when the guy beside me said, ‘Look at those people down there. They look like ants’. I said ‘They are ants. We haven’t taken off yet’.”

One of my favourite chapters was misheard lyrics for worship songs, like “Behold he comes, riding on a cow” (riding on a cloud) and “Open the Eyes of My Hot Dog” (My Heart Lord). I couldn’t stop laughing!

I did find that at certain points during the book I wasn’t as engaged, and I think that was more a reflection on me and where my head is right now than a judgment on the book, which I thought was genuinely fab and definitely achieved it’s mission of making me laugh again.

But it definitely wasn’t all laughs either and I highlighted a huge amount of quotes that really made me think. This, though, is the one that stuck with me the most – such a lovely way of interpreting our reminder to be salt (and light) in the world.

“Words are like salt. When blurted unwisely they bring sickness, burden the heart and increase blood pressure. When sprinkled rightly they add flavour, preserve life, and melt ice. It is impossible to overestimate the importance of using our words to build up.”

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[Kev Willoughby · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book will appeal to many in different ways.

What spoke most to me was the chapter called "The Nicest Thing Ever Said." In the intro for that chapter, the author speaks about a book he once bought that contained a collection of witty put-downs. He mentions the popularity of books such as that one and the cutting language contained within its pages and the need for something that is quite the opposite. He went on to invite friends to share the nicest thing someone else ever said to them. Look over the list and see if you would like to hear someone say some of these words to you:

"I forgive you."

"I love you."

"You're funny."

"Thanks."

"I'm proud of you."

"You changed my life."

"You're a great mother-in-law."

"You're a breath of fresh air."

"Yes."

He goes on to share this wisdom about the things we say to other people: "Words are like salt. When blurted unwisely they bring sickness, burden the heart, and increase blood pressure. When sprinkled rightly they add flavor, preserve life, and melt ice."

A reader may pick this book up because it certainly has a catchy an attractive title. The cover illustration is pretty cool as well. I certainly would like to laugh like a kid again. Sometimes life seems unnecessarily difficult and relationships can become too challenging and frustrations too common. What's the answer?

This book speaks to that question. The answer is in looking outside yourself. Seeking ways to encourage other people, serve those in need, and look for ways to make a memory for the special people in your life. In considering what is most important in life, the author shares this nugget: "I cannot list for you the top five pitchers or hockey players, but I can tell you the color of my dad's shirt the first time he said, 'I love you.' Dad was 75. I never doubted that he loved me. But it sure was nice hearing those words."

This book made me smile and laugh often, and I especially enjoyed the "Proverbs 31 Dad" chapter, the misheard lyrics in the "Making Carrot Biscuits" chapter, the tribute to Billy Graham, and the Top 10 "Let us" list appropriately titled "Joy Salad."

There is a lot of ground covered in the 42 short chapters of this book, and though each of the stories shared are not very long or deep, they are each meaningful. Don't miss the message. There are specific things described here within these pages that we can do to get to laugh like a kid again. Pick this one up today and get started laughing again.

[Nana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a surprise because I don't laugh a lot and never have so when I saw the book I didn't think I would laugh but I did, I laughed. I laughed many times because the stories he tells are right on. Each story has so much meaning and the way he tells them is unique.
I learned a lot from his stories but the one that is helping me the most right now is the one where his buddy, Steve, was on a diet and wanted to lose 100 pounds. He told his Steve he would pay him $10.00 for each pound he lost to their radio ministry but Steve would have to pay $10.00 for each pound he gained to their radio ministry. Then he tried to get Steve to eat the things he didn't want to eat so he wouldn't have to pay. They even went on a cruise, you know 24 hours of endless buffets but he stuck to the diet. At the point where he owed Steve $800.00, he asked how he did it. Steve replied, one step at a time and one no, and then another and another and it became a lifestyle. I laughed because not only did he have to pay the $800.00 to the radio ministry. he changed and started doing the diet style evangelism. I started doing the diet syle getting control of my life.
When I received this ARC, I never expected it to have such an impact on my life. The stories had an impact on me and I did laugh. I laughed when I was reading about the diet and remembered when I sweat for the first time, I thought it was raining inside my house. First time I laughed about it. As I write this review and the memories of the stories still dance around in my head, when this is released, I am going to buy some copies and I think the one I keep and the ones I give to people, they are going to be well-loved books that is picked up and read over and over again. The title is perfect because I still laugh thinking about the stories. Who knows, maybe this book is what I needed in order to get my life where it should be. I am off to a wonderful start.

[Donna Boyd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to #NetGalley, the author and the publisher for providing me with a digital copy of this book prior to publication in exchange for my honest review. This book is both thought-provoking and laugh out loud funny, although I will admit that the cereal smile on the cover is what initially drew me to this book. There are 42 short chapters in this book and Callaway begins each with a funny little story or joke, continues with some words of wisdom from someone famous and then goes on to a personal story. There is a little dose of God in here but not enough to be objectionable if someone is a nonbeliever. In one of my favorite chapters entitled #Selfie-Centered, he jokes about being so old that he went without a cell phone for 42 years and then talks about how we spend about four hours a day on our phones, saying that we will regret it one day. Another of my favorites is Three Words That Changed Me. He gives examples such as all is well, let me try, hot apple pie and I forgive you. What would your three words be? The statement through jest emerges truth is very appropriate in the case of this book. Some of his sentences are just such good advice. For example, "every child is more important than your phone" or "laughter was a windshield wiper. It hadn't stopped the rain, but it allowed her to keep going." Laughter does not fix all of our problems but it does allow us to keep going at times. This is a book that I will buy and give to friends making sure to keep a copy for myself. The photo of the man cutting the grass with a tornado behind him is worth the price of the book.

[Debra Southern]

I recommend this book to anyone who needs a laugh, a chortle, a giggle or a smile. The author turns example of his life into comic humor with experiences we’ve all had in life “My mother sang me nursery rhymes when I was younger—to prepare me for the perils of life, I suppose. Nursery rhymes in which Little Bo-Peep lost her sheep, three blind mice lost their tails, and Humpty Dumpty lost his balance and was never able to pull himself together again. I listened as weasels went pop, cradles went crash, and an old man went to bed and bumped his head and staggered around singing, “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.” One song in particular depressed the life out of me. I lost my kitty, my poor little kitty, I wandered the fields all ‘round. I looked in the cradle and under the table, But nowhere could kitty be found. So I took my hook, and went to the brook, To see if my kitty was there. But there I found that she had been drowned, And so I gave up in despair. Mom sang this softly to me, kissed my forehead, then said, “Okay. Off to bed, Son. Have a good sleep.” When I had children of my own, I came up with a happier ending: So I took my hook and went down to the brook, To see if she’d gotten that far. I say unattested that she’d been arrested, And charged for driving my car.” How many times through my childhood years, these rhymes were said without forethought to how scary they were before bedtime. But it was the authors off handed comment about his mother preparing him for life that made me laugh. Anytime we can laugh at something crazy (in our lives) by looking at it in a humorous perspective, we’ve beaten the dark side. And this book does that.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laugh Like A Kid Again is an inspirational book by author Phil Callaway.

Laugh Like A Kid Again is seasoned with pain, laughter, and just plain real life. Laugh Like A Kid Again has all the emotions of a good book written from a humorists POV.

Laugh Like A Kid Again has three parts. Part One invites the reader to lighten up, Part Two invites the reader to live without regrets, and Part Three invites the reader to leave footprints worth following; all with a spiritual balance.

My favorite quote that first tickled my funny bone while reading Laugh Like A Kid Again is the one about a parrot. “I know life can be strange, but imagine being the first guy to hear a parrot talk.”

I recommend Laugh Like A Kid Again to readers who need to lighten up and live; and, of course, laugh.

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

[Doreen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fun, helpful, sometimes poignant book. It made me laugh and made me think. I enjoyed all the funny stories. I was reading this during a time of unrest in my city. It was a great reminder that even though we live in dark times, “God has always done amazing things in the dark” (location 107).
I also appreciated his words on suffering and Christianity. There is “no other worldview where suffering is seen as a meaningful part of life. Christianity never denies the sorrow of it. Never explains the fairness of it. But it does provide purpose in it” (location 371). Well said.
This is a book of hope, joy, and gratitude. It’s a reminder of how loved we are by a sovereign God. I enjoyed it.
Thank you to Harvest House for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

[Kailyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

In a season where blue days have become the norm, I needed this read.
More than anything the author encourages, with humor and wit, the reader to look heavenward - towards true hope.

Thank you, Phil Callaway. A laugh is a gift.

[Shayney · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased review of this book*

Laugh Like A Kid Again by Phil Callaway was exactly what I was in the mood for right now! Usually when I’m in a weird reading funk or when I fancy a change in reading styles, I have my go to genres, but it was so nice and so refreshing to pick up this Non-Fiction book.

Not only did this book indeed make me laugh like a kid, with it’s cheesy dad jokes and brilliant writing style that had me flipping those pages, but it also has some great moments of wisdom within those pages. Each of the chapters are short and easy to digest, making this book such an easy and super fast paced book to read. Each of which starts with a “Dads Joke” and the chapter has it own meaning and message behind it, done so in a funny way that’s guaranteed to get a laugh and giggle from you.

Not the entirety of the book is going to connect to you, as it didn’t all connect with me, therefore not being able to keep me fully engaged 100% of the time, but, you can’t expect that of a non-fiction book. Like I said above, there are some moments in the book that genuinely made me think and are honestly breath-taking to read. One of these moments is;

“Words are like salt. When blurted unwisely they bring sickness, burden the heart and increase blood pressure. When sprinkled rightly they add flavour, preserve life, and melt ice. It is impossible to overestimate the importance of using our words to build up.”

[Katelyn Clements · Rating 3 out of 5]

In some ways I found this read to be refreshing. The chapters are short, there are a few stories that are quite entertaining, and some of the jokes caused me to smile. I also found myself groaning at some jokes and sighing at some of the clichés while full on cringing at others.
It is tough to review this one because I have mixed feelings towards it in that it was one of the last gifts given to me by my mother and I could see her in the pages and stories, but it also felt flat at times and never truly went in depth, but maybe it wasn’t supposed to. It was lighthearted enough that it sometimes boosted my mood and other times felt like a slog to get through even with how short the chapters were.

[Mandy Hazen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was so well written. First of all I absolutely love short stories. I was a little nervous that it was going to be focused around faith as I am not someone that is religious, though I am interested. The stories were a absolute perfect blend of true life miracles, laughter, falls, and faith. Nothing was overwhelming or too oppressive. It left me wanting more from this book and this author. I highly recommend. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Ruth · Rating 4 out of 5]

During these stressful and uncertain times, Phil Calloway's latest book is just what the doctor ordered. I have often experienced the healing properties of laughter. Laugh Like a Kid Again offers up a great collection of humorous anecdotes along with some pretty good advice on the subjects of marriage and parenting. Thanks to NetGalley and Harvest House Publishers for the advance copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Joanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a huge fan of Phil Callaway! I have read all his books and have heard him speak a number of times. This book, in particular, really resonated with me as I am coming up to this same chapter (pun intended) in my life. :)
I found myself smiling from ear to ear as I read it from cover to cover. His humour and his biblical wisdom make for a great combination.
I highly recommend this book to anyone of any age, but especially to those who are entering into the grandparent years.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Laugh Like a Kid Again was a great book of humor touching many subjects. Phil Callaway gives many examples from his family life and how staying in God's love got them through times. He adds humor to these stories to remind us of the gift of laughter through all of life. It was a good book to read during hard quarantine days.

[bangalimeyreads · Rating 3 out of 5]

Each chapter starts with a joke and then followed up by a hilarious situation/memories/story behind a pic that got popular among the public.
The author has changed the personal names to keep these people unaffected by any chance of getting humiliated for these funny scenarios.

I read this book from netgalley.
It was a new concept..liked it ❤️

[Flora · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phil Callaway has managed to make me laugh and chuckle amid all the wonderful and encouraging truths and stories. Quite a feat.

Really enjoyed this heartwarming little book. Glad I discovered him and I went and look for his podcast and subscribed immediately!

Thank you Netgalley and Harvest House for the ARC. This is my honest opinion.

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. It is full of that great Phil Callaway humour, encouragement for your faith and heartfelt moments. Really a perfect time for a read like this to uplift you and give you some laughter amidst all the uncertainty in this pandemic world we’ve been in. Thank you Phil Callaway, I will definitely recommend this to my loved ones. So good!

[Samantha Adkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a feel good book. I might need to read it monthly to get through this Pandemic. The photo of Phil and his grandkids is reason enough to buy this jewel. Keep up the great work, Phil! The world needs more hope and humour.

[Joanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recommend this book for all Christians or people who are searching. I read this book 1 or 2 chapters at the time. There is a lot of food for thought, and not the sort of book you should read straight through. It is full of encouragement and good stories.

[Christy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked this one up on a whim at my mother-in-laws house. I liked that the chapters were short, pithy, and poignant. They were easy to read while waiting for your children to suddenly need you again. The stories made me smile and be encouraged.

[Leslie Totten · Rating 5 out of 5]

A light, fun read that makes you smile :-)

[Sarah Buron · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was the perfect book to read a couple chapters of before bed each night. It was lighthearted with some more serious moments sprinkled in. I very much appreciated getting access to an advanced copy - the cute book cover is what originally drew me in!