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What's the Problem

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The one thing all of us have in common is that we have to solve problems and challenges of various degrees and complexities.


A lucky few among us always seem to resolve complex problems successfully by thinking critically and logically. Still, even the most talented problem solvers need practice (and experience!) to develop and perfect this skill.


Blake wants to sell his brother, Braden, to another family. Savannah wants to fight Mary over an insult. Braden sooo wants to sneak out of class to play kickball.


The characters in this fast-paced story face conundrums that make each of them consider solutions that are inappropriate, ill-advised or irresponsible.


Fortunately, some good old-fashioned fatherly advice coupled with a tried-and-true strategy for solving problems keeps everyone safe and satisfied. This story introduces and encourages readers to use SODAS (Situation, Options, Disadvantages, Advantages, and Solution) as a way to logically and thoughtfully figure out how to solve any problem, from the silly to the serious.


Award-winning author and school counselor Bryan Smith's teaching style come through in this insightful tale from his wildly popular  Executive FUNction  book series. The series skillfully weaves skill teaching into humorous story-lines to help readers become flexible thinkers, problem solvers and self-managers.


Tips for parents and educators are included at the the end of the storybook to help children learn how to become problem-solving pros!


The series also

31 pages, Paperback

Published March 18, 2019

12 people want to read

About the author

Bryan Smith

27 books7 followers
Bryan began his career as an elementary school teacher before realizing he had a talent for helping children deal with difficult issues. He has since become a school counselor. He is married to a school counselor and they have two boys.

Librarian's note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
Profile Image for Julie.
1,522 reviews4 followers
October 13, 2020
I received a free ARC from NetGAlley in exchange for an honest review.

FIrst off, this title is so confusing and not attractive to kids. It is a helpful book about problem solving, but a better title would be good.
Profile Image for Ellee Nichols.
408 reviews3 followers
January 12, 2025
Copyright date: 2019
Star rating: 4
Award: N/A
Genre: picture book
Summary w/ themes: This book is about a boy who learns a new way to solve problems.
Use for future classroom: Good book to discuss problem solving
Thoughts of book: I thought this book had a pretty good lesson
Profile Image for Ingrid O..
60 reviews3 followers
April 8, 2019
We enjoyed this book really much. I love the issues that were presented and the resolutions offered. It is a great way to stir family conversation with some great tips to get your kids to build confidence on how to resolve a conflict. I recommend this book to my family and friends.
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews

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