”As an early childhood educator and center owner, I am always looking for books that help children understand important, often difficult topics in a way that is both clear and empowering. I Said No! is one of those books. It addresses the critical issue of body safety and consent, using accurate anatomical terms — a vital component in helping children clearly articulate their experiences and boundaries. This book stands out for its realistic and relatable scenarios that reflect situations children may actually encounter. It thoughtfully explores red and green flags, helping young readers identify unsafe behavior, even when it comes from someone they know — which, unfortunately, is often the case in instances of abuse. One of the most powerful aspects of this book is how it encourages children to use their voice, to say "no," and to talk to safe adults about their feelings and experiences. These are essential tools for self-protection and emotional health. I strongly recommend that parents read the book first to assess whether the content and language are appropriate for their child's age and developmental level. However, I believe the earlier we start these conversations, the better equipped our children will be to stay safe and confident in their boundaries. This is an excellent resource for families and educators alike — a must-have on every child’s bookshelf.”

ERICA SACCOCCIO

Founder of the Family Tree School Age Enrichment Program, Podcast Host and Chief Executive Officer at Childcare Directors Chair

”Kimberly King and her son Zack's updated 2025 edition of I Said No! is a compassionate, practical, and empowering guide for children and their caregivers. Based on Zack’s real-life experience, the book offers age-appropriate, non-graphic scenarios to teach kids how to recognize unsafe situations and respond confidently using the “Think, Say, Do” model. What sets this book apart is its clarity and approachability. Using “red flag” and “green flag” language simplifies the complex topic of boundaries into something children can understand and remember. Each scenario is followed by thoughtful prompts encouraging meaningful dialogue between children and trusted adults. Adding updated content to address technology and social media makes this edition especially relevant. Whether you're a parent, educator, therapist, or pediatrician, this book is a vital tool in any prevention toolkit. It helps bridge the gap in difficult conversations and ensures children know how to speak up, even when the person causing harm is someone they know. This book is a conversation starter, a confidence builder, and a potential lifesaver. Highly recommended.”

NICKI REISBERG

Scrolling to Death

“As a parent, discussing sensitive topics with my children has always been a priority, but finding the right resources can be challenging. The upcoming newest edition of I Said No! by Zack and Kimberly King has been an invaluable tool in our journey to teach body autonomy and personal boundaries! We have read the previous version, but the updated illustrations and information really helped my oldest (9 years old) comprehend what was being said and how it relates to real life. The book's approach is both gentle and empowering. Through relatable scenarios and clear language, it helps children understand the importance of saying "no" when something feels wrong. The inclusion of "red flags" and "green flags" provides a visual and conceptual framework that resonates with young readers. What stands out most is the book's ability to address a difficult subject with honesty and care, without inducing fear. It's a resource I feel confident sharing with my child, knowing it opens the door to important conversations about safety and trust. I highly recommend this book to any parent or caregiver looking to equip their child with the knowledge and confidence to navigate their personal boundaries.”

LAUREN BROWN

Independent bookseller at Poppy Books and Gifts

“In an age where children are increasingly exposed to hyper-sexualized content and online predators, teaching body safety early is not just important—it’s essential. Thank you to Zack and Kimberly King for equipping parents with the tools they need to start these critical conversations. With thoughtful prompts and practical action steps, this book empowers families to protect their children and foster a foundation of trust and safety.”

LAUREN BROWN

Independent bookseller at Poppy Books and Gifts

“An incredibly informative resource that thoughtfully covers a wide range of essential body safety concepts. It serves as a valuable teaching tool for both parents and children, presenting complex topics in a clear and accessible way that encourages meaningful conversations. The inclusion of practical scenarios offers young people and their caregivers the opportunity to explore proactive steps to take in challenging situations.”

VICTORIA BARENDSEN

Registered Psychologist