A 2012 Creative Child Book of the Year Award Winner in Family Values!
“What a wonderful package of passion and purpose! Any child would do well by using the messages of author Amber Housey as building blocks for a life of substance and impact. Every household in America ought to have a copy of this book.” -- Jeffrey Marx, Pulitzer Prize winner and author of Season of Life
"A wonderfully crafted, and significantly crucial lesson in selflessness for our young readers today. 'Just Because' is the first flash of brilliance from Author, Amber Housey, in what will prove to be a long legacy of originality, creativity, and social awareness for children and adults alike."- Michael D Scott, Writer, Musician, and Author of "King of Dilly Dally."
“Through the first in her series of flipside stories, Just Because, author Amber J. Housey has managed to capture one of the essential life skills every child should have in order to succeed: Perspective Taking. Research show us that children at an early age who are introduced to and learn perspective taking have a better adjustment to education because of their ability to understand something about what other people are thinking. Using literacy as the means, Ms. Housey has provided parents and teachers alike an opportunity to explore this concept with children of every age!” Carmy VanRobays, School Director, Somerset Academy
"This book (Just Because) gives kids an opportunity to see how they can make an impact in their world. Helping our children find purpose and meaning in life is one of the greatest gifts we can give to them. Amber Housey's story shows that no matter where you are in life, you can make a difference in someone else's life, and doing it just because is a part of living a meaningful life. This is a book that we can use in the Girls and Boys Empowered programs to teach kids to see that how they treat others says everything about who they are as a person." -Kimber Bishop-Yanke, Founder, Girls and Boys Empowered
"I know everyone will LOVE your book. We received it from mutual friends of ours, and my oldest son has really taken it to heart! It's the perfect story, especially at this time of year." -A. Weaver
"Children flourish when life's lessons are enjoyable and gratifying. Amber Housey's newest book, Just Because, is a story of giving and receiving that doubles as a modern-day parable. It affects the heart and the soul and offers children an experience in joyful charity that will remain with them throughout their lives." Lynn Henning, Detroit News
"Seeing complex issues through a child's eyes will make you smile with wonder. "Just Because" is a delightful read for both children and adults- giving insight into the simplicity of giving and the joy of a child's heart. As someone who works with a diverse group of people in poverty, I can attest that this book addresses some of the negative stereotypes in a way that easy for kids (and adults) to understand." Bill Brazier, Executive Director of St Vincent de Paul Detroit
"Helping kids understand how alike we all are despite our differences is tough. The Flip Side stories really help us all remember how much we have in common and reminds us of the joy of connecting with and helping each other. What a fun way to teach this important value!" Molly O'Shea, MD, FAAP
"Flip Side stories are a heartfelt approach to teaching what every parent wants for their child - an understanding and empathy for others. Flip Side stories inspires conversation about understanding and empathy - things we need more of in this world!" Christy McDonald, TV Personality and Parenting Blogger
“A journey in words that will motivate readers to shift the focus from their own desires to the needs of others. Just Because: Where Another Point of View Makes A Better You! reinforces what Sydney Smith once said, “It is the greatest mistake to do nothing because you could only do a little.” As a school counselor, educator, and mother, I find Amber Housey’s book invaluable in teaching children to be open- minded, principled and caring. “-Ruth Sochacki, Middle School Counselor, BS, MA, NCC. LPC
"As an elementary school principal I feel this book would be a great addition to every classroom library. Teaching children to give to their community is essential if we want to develop a caring and loving world. Just Because helps children to learn how they can have a positive influence on those around them."Barbara Kirschenheiter, Ed Spec., Elementary and K-8 Principal
"You need to share"...Why? Just Because explains in both the story and the illustrations."Marilyn Stephan, grandmother, retired English teacher, and retired Mayor of Berkley
"What a thoughtful book reminding us of the many gifts in life. “Just Because” is a gift in itself because each time you read it you will discover another treasured lesson. It’s a great book to share with your family."-Rhea Zaleski, Mother of 3, Troy, Michigan
"I like how the book shows two sides of the story. The scavenger hunt was fun and it was cute to search for the baby reaching for the bear!" -Bella Z., Age 10, Troy, Michigan