Because I Said So: The ups, downs, and uh-ohs of growing up

Because I Said So

By: Minta Speller 

Because I Said So: The Ups, Downs, and Uh-Ohs of Growing Up

An enchanting children’s book that invites young readers on a heartfelt journey of curiosity, independence, and the valuable lessons learned along the way.

This beautifully illustrated story follows Minta, a bright and strong-willed girl who questions everything and everyone—especially when told no without a solid explanation. If an adult says, “Because I said so,” Minta takes it as a challenge to find out why for herself! But through a series of amusing and sometimes messy misadventures, she begins to realize that maybe, just maybe, the grown-ups in her life actually do know a thing or two.

Perfect for early readers and children ages 5-10, Because I Said So encourages problem-solving, resilience, and the balance between curiosity and wisdom. With humor and heart, this story reassures kids that asking questions is important—but so is knowing when to listen.

Minta’s journey is one every child (and parent!) can relate to—the push and pull between independence and guidance. As she navigates the world on her own terms, she faces the natural consequences of her choices, learning that rules aren’t always meant to spoil the fun, but often exist to protect it. This delightful story serves as a lighthearted way to introduce conversations about listening, learning from experience, and understanding the perspective of others.

Through Minta’s humorous missteps and hard-won wisdom, young readers will see themselves in her determination, her stubborn streak, and ultimately, her growth.

Set in a vibrant and inclusive world, Because I Said So reflects Minta Speller’s dedication to stories that resonate with children of all backgrounds. By centering an inquisitive and confident young Black girl, the book provides meaningful representation while offering a universally relatable message about growing up.

Minta’s experiences highlight the importance of self-awareness, decision-making, and understanding cause and effect—key elements of social-emotional learning. This book is a valuable resource for parents and educators looking to teach kids about responsibility, critical thinking, and learning from mistakes in a safe and supportive way.

Ideal for read-alouds, bedtime stories, and classroom discussions, Because I Said So makes for an engaging and thought-provoking addition to any child’s bookshelf. Whether gifting it to a young question-asker or using it as a fun teaching tool, this book is sure to spark laughter, reflection, and plenty of “aha” moments.

🔹 Curiosity & Critical Thinking – Encourages children to ask questions while also recognizing the value of wisdom and experience.
🔹 Cause & Effect – Helps kids understand how actions have consequences in a fun and relatable way.
🔹 Resilience & Learning from Mistakes – Shows that it’s okay to make mistakes as long as you learn from them.
🔹 Diversity & Representation – Features an inquisitive young Black girl whose experiences are both specific and universally relatable.
🔹 Family & Community – Highlights the importance of listening to the trusted people in a child’s life.

A charming and insightful read, Because I Said So reminds children that growing up is a mix of curiosity, adventure, and learning—sometimes the hard way!

Because I Said So:

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