A book review of The Best Way to Get Your Way by Tanya Lloya Kyi
Stars: *****
Kids Can Press (2023)
Children’s Nonfiction
56 pages
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This post contains paid links.
Summary: Kids are used to disagreeing with rules – not that anyone ever listens. But what if there was a way of disagreeing that worked? What if there was a way kids could change adults’ minds? Welcome to debating! This book can help kids master exactly how it’s done. As two debaters on opposing sides tackle each of five hot-button issues – chores, screen time, eating vegetables, bedtime and doing homework – readers follow along, step-by-step, and learn the ins and outs of doing research, constructing an argument and rebutting an opponent’s case. Then, after each debate, readers get to decide which side they’re on – and they just might surprise themselves! It turns out, making a smart and logical argument is a perfect formula for getting your way! What kid can resist?
While everyone else tells kids not to argue, award-winning author Tanya Lloyd Kyi says go for it – the right way – in this lively and thought-provoking book. The well-researched content covers the entire debating process: resolution, opening statement, research, rebuttal and closing argument. It also includes key tips about debating and public speaking, choosing terminology, the importance of deep listening and how to select quality sources. Skills taught – critical thinking, research, media literacy, constructing a persuasive argument – link directly to the social studies inquiry process. Colorful, eye-catching art on every page by Chanelle Nibbelink features a diverse cast of characters and adds visual appeal.
The Best Way to Get Your Way
This is a book about the art of debate for kids. It uses the premise of a child trying to get their way and how they can debate what they want in a productive way. Common kid complaints are shown such as chores, screen use, eating your vegetables, bedtime and homework.
There are two sides to every story and argument so both sides are shown. There are example kids showing their opinion on opposite sides of the issue. You are shown their arguments and research that way done and how to use that research to debate your viewpoint. You are learning how to debate in a way that is interesting to children.
The illustrations that accompany the book are by Chanelle Nibbelink and are fun and inviting. The cast of kids is diverse and the words are easy to read. It is bright and colourful.
I highly recommend this book for use in schools to teach the basics of debate.
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