Phil Weiss

Phil Weiss’s Think Like the D-Squad is a standout children’s book that delivers a fresh, engaging approach to teaching critical and creative thinking. Drawing from his personal journey as both a parent of children with learning differences and as someone who struggled in traditional educational settings, Weiss crafts a resource that is as empathetic as it is practical.

The book is built around four memorable canine characters—Sully (the Noticer), Baz (the Wonderer), Dash (the Tester), and Phoebe (the Zoom-Out)—each representing a key move in the critical thinking process: Notice, Wonder, Test, and Zoom Out. Through their stories, the book models how to: 1) Notice the real problem, not just the obvious one; 2) Wonder by generating wild, unfiltered ideas; 3) Test those ideas against reality; and 4) Zoom Out to reframe the question or see the bigger picture. This framework is woven into every chapter, using relatable mysteries, everyday scenarios, and playful dialogue to make abstract thinking skills concrete and accessible.

Weiss’s narrative is peppered with humor, warmth, and real-life anecdotes, making the lessons memorable. Each chapter ends with a “Try This” dare—short, actionable exercises that encourage readers to practice the thinking move just introduced. These activities are designed for solo readers or pairs, requiring minimal materials and focusing on building habits rather than rote answers.

The book’s design is intentionally reader-friendly: large type, open lines, and frequent illustrations provide visual breaks and support for readers who may struggle with traditional layouts. Visual cues and icons help children navigate the content, and the hybrid of fiction (the talking dogs) and nonfiction (real experiments, historical examples) keeps engagement high.

Think Like the D-Squad is especially powerful for children who feel out of place in conventional classrooms—those with learning differences, those who are quiet or restless, or those who think in unconventional ways. However, its tools are universally applicable, benefiting any child who wants to become a better problem-solver or creative thinker.

The book’s inclusive tone reassures readers that thinking differently is not a defect but a strength. It avoids labels and diagnoses, focusing instead on helping every child find the thinking style that fits them best. The inclusion of research-backed explanations (in “Dash Checked It” boxes), discussion questions, and a glossary further enhances its educational value.

Its blend of storytelling, practical exercises, and accessible design makes it a valuable resource for families, classrooms, and any young reader eager to build lifelong thinking skills.

Star rating: 5 Stars

Summary: A thoughtfully crafted, highly effective guide to critical and creative thinking for children.