What do you think? by Matthew Syed

Matthew Syed, mindset consultant and author of Dare to Be You: Defy Self-Doubt, Fearlessly Follow Your Own Path and Be Confidently You! and You Are Awesome: Find Your Confidence and Dare to be Brilliant at (Almost) Anything, has written his third practical non-fiction book for children encouraging effective social communication, confidence and kindness. The sub-heading of the latest release, What Do YOU Think?, is How to Agree to Disagree and Still Be Friends. The book aims to give positive strategies to children to navigate successful relationships with peers and adults in their daily interactions.

The contents page highlights seven chapters beginning with the chapter one title Are you A jumper? referring to someone who jumps to conclusions and ending with the final chapter, The Battle of ideas: How to argue and stay friends. Following the Contents page is the introduction which discusses personal thoughts, the thoughts of others and how do we let people know what we think. With an interesting layout, accessible text, graphic images, highlighted key words, quirky tips and shared stories especially from the author, this humourous book will appeal to those upper middle grade and early high school readers who are looking for ideas and support to confidently find their place in the world.

Themes: Communication, Feelings, Critical Thinking, Social Skills, Confidence.

Kathryn Beilby