Book Review: What If Everybody Did That?
A Thought-Provoking Lesson in Responsibility: Review of What If Everybody Did That? by Ellen Javernick
Introduction: A Simple Question with Profound Consequences
Have you ever wondered what the world would be like if everyone ignored the rules? If every person dropped a candy wrapper on the ground, talked loudly in a library, or cut in line? Ellen Javernick’s What If Everybody Did That? takes this simple yet powerful question and turns it into a delightful, thought-provoking children’s book that teaches responsibility, empathy, and the impact of individual actions.
Illustrated by Colleen Madden, this book is more than just a moral lesson—it’s a conversation starter, a parenting tool, and a fun read that sticks with both kids and adults long after the last page. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or just someone who loves meaningful children’s literature, this book is a must-read.
Plot Summary: A Chain Reaction of Consequences
The story follows a curious young boy who tests boundaries by making small, seemingly harmless choices—like throwing a soda can out the car window, interrupting storytime, or feeding popcorn to a zoo animal. Each time, an adult responds with the pivotal question: “What if everybody did that?”
Through vivid, humorous illustrations, the book shows the exaggerated (but logical) outcomes if everyone followed the boy’s actions—litter piling up into mountains, zoo animals sick from junk food, and chaotic classrooms where no one listens. The boy gradually realizes that his choices, no matter how small, contribute to a bigger picture.
The brilliance of the book lies in its simplicity. There’s no heavy-handed moralizing—just a clear, engaging demonstration of cause and effect that kids can easily grasp.
Character Analysis & Development: A Relatable Everychild
The protagonist isn’t given a name, making him an everychild—a stand-in for any young reader testing limits. His expressions shift from mischievousness to dawning realization, mirroring the way children process consequences.
Writing Style & Narrative Technique: Repetition with Purpose
Javernick’s writing is straightforward yet effective, using repetition to reinforce the central theme. Each scenario follows the same structure:
- The child does something questionable.
- An adult asks, “What if everybody did that?”
- The illustration humorously depicts the chaotic result.
This rhythm makes the book predictable in the best way—kids quickly catch on and start anticipating the consequences, engaging them in the lesson.
Colleen Madden’s illustrations are vibrant and exaggerated, amplifying the humor while driving home the message. The contrast between the child’s innocent actions and the absurd, over-the-top outcomes keeps the tone lighthearted yet meaningful.
Thematic Exploration: Small Actions, Big Impact
At its core, What If Everybody Did That? is about social responsibility and empathy. It teaches:
- Accountability: Every choice affects others.
- Community: Rules exist for collective well-being.
- Critical Thinking: Encourages kids to consider “why” behind rules.
Unlike preachy morality tales, this book lets children see the consequences rather than just being told what’s right or wrong. It’s a subtle but powerful way to nurture ethical reasoning.
Personal Reading Experience: Why This Book Sticks
As a parent, I’ve read countless “lesson books” that either bore kids or feel too didactic. This one stands out because:
- It’s fun. My kids laughed at the outrageous illustrations (like a mountain of litter or elephants eating junk food).
- It sparks discussion. After reading, my 5-year-old started asking, “What if everybody did that?” about real-life situations.
- It’s relatable. The scenarios (interrupting, littering, running indoors) are things every kid does, making the lesson feel personal.
The book doesn’t just tell kids to behave—it helps them understand why behavior matters.
Comparison to Similar Books
Compared to other children’s books about rules and consequences (like No, David! or Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!), this one stands out for its cause-and-effect approach. While David Shannon’s No, David! focuses on a mischievous kid’s antics, Javernick’s book takes it further by showing the collective impact of misbehavior.
It’s also more interactive—readers can pause and ask kids, “What do YOU think would happen?” making it a great teaching tool.
Strengths & Minor Weaknesses
Strengths:
✅ Engaging & Memorable – The humor and visuals make the lesson stick.
✅ Encourages Critical Thinking – Kids learn to evaluate actions, not just follow rules.
✅ Universal Appeal – Works for ages 3-8, at home or in classrooms.
Weaknesses:
❌ Limited Diversity – The illustrations could include more varied ethnicities.
❌ Repetition Might Bore Some – Very young kids might lose interest after a few scenarios.
Target Audience: Who Should Read This?
- Parents of kids ages 3-7 who want to teach responsibility.
- Teachers looking for a fun way to discuss classroom rules.
- Counselors/Social Workers who need tools for teaching empathy.
Memorable Quotes & Scenes
While the text is simple, the question “What if everybody did that?” becomes a refrain that lingers. One standout scene shows the boy feeding popcorn to a zoo elephant, followed by a spread of sick elephants surrounded by popcorn bags—a visual that drives the point home without a word.
Cultural & Historical Context
Though not historical, the book reflects modern parenting trends that favor gentle guidance over punishment. It aligns with Montessori and positive discipline approaches, focusing on natural consequences rather than fear-based obedience.
Final Verdict: A Must-Have for Teaching Responsibility
What If Everybody Did That? is more than a book—it’s a tool for raising thoughtful, conscientious kids. Its humor, relatability, and clever approach make it a standout in children’s literature. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or just love books that make a difference, this one deserves a spot on your shelf.
🔗 Get the Book: Amazon
Discussion Questions for Readers:
- What’s a rule your child struggles with? How could this book help?
- Can you think of a real-life situation where “what if everybody did that?” applies?
- How do you teach responsibility to kids without being too strict?
Let me know your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear how this book resonated with you!
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