In "Think Like the D-Squad: Notice. Wonder. Test. Zoom Out.", author Phil Weiss delivers an engaging guide designed to help young readers master problem-solving. Narrated by four real-life dogs—Sully, Baz, Dash, and Phoebe—the book breaks down complex cognitive processes into four accessible core moves: Noticing the root problem, Wondering wildly without fear, Testing ideas against evidence, and Zooming Out to question the frame. Weiss’s primary purpose is to teach children how to combine critical and creative thinking, proving that thinking differently is a learnable strength.
Weiss is remarkably qualified to write such an inspiring book. Beyond spending thirty-five years in the corporate world and earning doctorates in international entrepreneurship and innovation, Weiss shares a personal connection to non-traditional learning. As a child, he struggled academically, was placed in remedial reading, and entered college on probation. By discovering how his own mind worked, he transformed his academic journey and later raised two sons navigating unique learning differences. This combination of scholarly expertise, corporate insight, and personal experience gives his message authenticity and empathy.
What really stands out in the book is its fusion of narrative storytelling, inclusive design, scientific rigor, and emotional depth. A key highlight is how Dash checks to see if ideas are true. Leading the "Test" phase, Dash evaluates ideas by testing them against real-world evidence rather than arguing in his head. Dash asks the pivotal question, "How do you know?", tracing claims past the "fog" of hearsay back to genuine sources. In his "Dash Checked It" research sidebars, Dash highlights scientific studies—such as Stanford experiments showing that expert fact-checkers verify digital information by evaluating outside sources. Another standout feature is Sully’s ongoing mystery, threaded across even-numbered chapters. After park dogs laugh at one of his treasures, Sully stops showing his collected finds and secretly hides them in a far corner behind the shed. This subplot poignantly illustrates how fear of ridicule causes quiet thinkers to hide their best ideas.
The book most benefits readers ages 8 to 12, particularly children with learning differences, ADHD, or autism, alongside quiet or hesitant thinkers. Parents, educators, librarians, and homeschoolers seeking tools to foster intellectual resilience will also find immense value in its curriculum-aligned structure.
Ultimately, Weiss wants readers to take away the empowering lesson that thinking is a collaborative "team sport" where being wrong is not a failure, but vital data for learning. By mastering these four moves, children learn to voice their ideas without fear of judgment.
"Think Like the D-Squad" is an essential, transformative masterclass that will permanently elevate how young minds approach real-world challenges. Grab your copy today to equip the young problem-solver in your life with tools that build lifelong confidence, creativity, and resilience!
Reviewed by: Paul M.
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