The Scuttlebutt Letters Review

a clever satire on the use of our words

Book Title: The Scuttlebutt Letters (Words to a Wild Tongue)

Author: Natalie Brand

Genre: Satire

Summary: In the spirit of C. S. Lewis’ The Screwtape Letters, Natalie Brand writes a clever satire on the use, or rather misuse, of the tongue. In a series of letters from the heart to the tongue, the heart is quick to point out the hidden motives and subtle self-aggrandizement of the tongue as the mouth succumbs to the alluring temptation to gossip and brag. The rebukes are humorous yet piercing until the haughty heart realizes that he is the root of the problem rather than the tongue, as the woeful words which have escaped the mouth originated with him. Before there can be a change in speech, there must be a transformation of the heart.

What I like:

the witty prose — This book is a clever little gem! Each chapter exposes an improper use of the tongue but does so with humor and alluring alliteration. It will make you cringe with conviction as well as laugh out loud.

the length — This is a short book—under 100 pages! It’s a quick read, but makes a huge statement!

Impact: I’m seriously considering using this book as a devotion for a discipleship group I’ll be leading this school year. The high school girls in my group will be discipling younger girls at the Christian school where I teach, and The Scuttlebutt Letters will serve as a reminder to lean into the Lord as we seek to be wise with our words.

Bonus Feature: There is a list of ten questions at the end which will lead to reflection on and application of the biblical principles illustrated in the book. These can also be a resource if you’re leading a study of this excellent work.

Purchasing Options:

10ofThose