Book Review: What Should Danny Do? (The Power to Choose Series)
What Should Danny Do? (The Power to Choose Series) by Adir Levy – A Thoughtful and Empowering Book Review
Introduction: A Book That Puts the Power in a Child’s Hands
Imagine a book that doesn’t just tell a story but invites young readers to shape it. What Should Danny Do? by Adir Levy is a groundbreaking interactive children’s book that blends storytelling with decision-making, teaching kids the power of choice in a fun and engaging way.
As a parent, educator, or caregiver, you’ve probably encountered books that preach values—but how many actually let children experience the consequences of their choices? This book does exactly that, making it a standout in children’s literature.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the plot, characters, themes, and why this book is a must-have for teaching emotional intelligence and responsibility.
Plot Summary: A Day in Danny’s Life, Shaped by Choices
What Should Danny Do? follows Danny, a young boy with superhero dreams, as he navigates a typical day filled with small but meaningful decisions. The book is structured in a choose-your-own-adventure style, where readers decide Danny’s actions at key moments.
For example:
- Should Danny share his favorite toy with his brother?
- Should he apologize when he makes a mistake?
- Should he react with anger or patience when things don’t go his way?
Each choice leads to a different outcome, reinforcing the idea that our decisions shape our experiences. The brilliance lies in how Levy presents both positive and negative consequences in a way that feels natural rather than preachy.
Character Analysis: Danny as Every Child’s Mirror
Danny is a relatable protagonist—he’s not perfect, and that’s the point. He gets frustrated, feels jealous, and sometimes acts impulsively, just like real kids. What makes him special is that he learns from his choices.
His interactions with family and friends (like his little brother, parents, and classmates) feel authentic. The supporting characters react realistically to Danny’s behavior, reinforcing social dynamics in a way that kids intuitively understand.
The book subtly teaches emotional vocabulary—when Danny feels mad, sad, or proud, those emotions are named, helping young readers identify their own feelings.
Writing Style & Narrative Technique: Interactive and Engaging
Levy’s writing is simple yet effective, keeping young readers engaged without overwhelming them. The interactive format is the book’s biggest strength—it turns reading into an experience rather than a passive activity.
The illustrations by Mat Sadler are vibrant and expressive, adding depth to Danny’s world. The visual cues help kids understand emotions and scenarios even if they’re still developing reading skills.
One clever technique is the repetition of key phrases like “Danny has the power to choose!”—this reinforces the central message without feeling repetitive.
Thematic Exploration: Choice, Responsibility, and Emotional Intelligence
At its core, What Should Danny Do? is about:
- The Power of Choice – Every decision, big or small, has consequences.
- Emotional Regulation – How we react to challenges defines our experiences.
- Empathy & Kindness – Treating others well leads to better outcomes.
Unlike traditional moral tales, this book doesn’t tell kids what’s right—it shows them through cause and effect. This makes the lessons stick because they’re discovered rather than dictated.
Personal Reading Experience: Why This Book Resonates
Reading this with my child was an eye-opener. The first time through, they made choices based on impulse (like refusing to share), leading to a less-than-happy ending. But when we reread it, they paused, thought, and chose differently—and were amazed at how Danny’s day improved.
It sparked conversations about real-life situations: “Remember when you didn’t want to share your toys? How did that make your friend feel?” The book became a tool for discussing behavior in a non-confrontational way.
Comparison to Other Books in the Genre
Most children’s books about behavior (like No, David! or The Berenstain Bears) follow a linear narrative where the character learns a lesson. What Should Danny Do? stands out because it’s interactive, giving kids agency.
It’s similar to Choose Your Own Adventure books but tailored for younger readers with a focus on social-emotional learning.
Strengths & Minor Weaknesses
✅ Strengths:
- Brilliant interactive format
- Teaches emotional intelligence naturally
- Encourages rereading and discussion
- Engaging illustrations
❌ Minor Weaknesses:
- Some parents might prefer a more traditional story structure.
- A few scenarios could be expanded for deeper discussion.
Target Audience: Who Should Read This?
Perfect for:
- Kids ages 4-9 (though older kids enjoy it too!)
- Parents looking for tools to teach responsibility
- Teachers & Counselors who want interactive SEL (Social-Emotional Learning) resources
Memorable Quotes & Passages
“You are the superhero of your own story. Your choices write the adventure.”
“Danny has the power to choose… and so do YOU!”
These lines capture the book’s empowering message.
Cultural & Historical Context
In an era where emotional intelligence is increasingly valued in education, What Should Danny Do? aligns perfectly with modern parenting and teaching philosophies. It’s part of a growing trend of books that help kids develop soft skills early.
Final Verdict: A Must-Have for Raising Thoughtful Kids
What Should Danny Do? isn’t just a book—it’s a parenting tool, a conversation starter, and a fun way to teach life’s most important lessons. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver, this book belongs on your shelf.
🔗 Get the Book: Amazon
Discussion Questions for Readers:
- What choice would you make in Danny’s shoes?
- How do you talk to your kids about consequences?
- Have you found other interactive books that teach life skills?
Let’s chat in the comments! 📚💬
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