A Heartfelt Guide to Good Choices: Review of My Way to Good Choices by Elizabeth Cole

Introduction: Why This Book Stands Out

In a world where children are constantly bombarded with distractions and mixed messages, teaching them the value of responsibility and positive decision-making is more crucial than ever. My Way to Good Choices by Elizabeth Cole is a gem in the realm of children’s social-emotional learning (SEL) books—a beautifully crafted story that doesn’t just preach but engages young readers in understanding the power of their choices.

As a parent, educator, or caregiver, you’ve likely encountered countless books about behavior and consequences. But what makes this one special? It’s the perfect blend of relatable storytelling, vibrant illustrations, and meaningful lessons that resonate long after the last page. If you’re looking for a book that helps kids navigate emotions, accountability, and problem-solving, this might just be your next favorite read-aloud.

Plot Summary: A Journey of Choices and Consequences

Without giving away major spoilers, My Way to Good Choices follows a young protagonist (or multiple children, depending on the edition) as they encounter everyday dilemmas—whether it’s sharing toys, handling frustration, or owning up to mistakes. The narrative cleverly presents scenarios where the child must decide between impulsive reactions and thoughtful responses.

Each choice leads to a natural consequence, reinforcing cause-and-effect in a way that feels organic rather than preachy. The book doesn’t just tell kids what to do—it shows them how different decisions play out, making the lessons stick.

Character Analysis: Relatable and Growth-Oriented

The characters in this book are intentionally designed to mirror real children—flawed, curious, and capable of growth. Whether it’s the main character struggling with patience or a friend learning about fairness, each personality serves as a mirror for young readers to see themselves.

What stands out is the authenticity of their emotions. The frustration, guilt, pride, and joy feel genuine, helping kids connect emotionally. The character development is subtle but powerful—readers witness transformation not through grand gestures but through small, meaningful changes in behavior.

Writing Style & Narrative Technique: Engaging and Interactive

Elizabeth Cole’s writing strikes a perfect balance between simplicity and depth. The language is accessible for early readers (ages 4-8), yet the themes are rich enough to spark discussions with older kids. The rhythmic, sometimes repetitive structure reinforces key concepts without feeling monotonous—ideal for memory retention.

The book also employs:

  • Thought-provoking questions (“What would you do?”) to encourage critical thinking.
  • Vivid, expressive illustrations that complement the text and enhance emotional understanding.
  • A non-judgmental tone, making it safe for kids to reflect on their own mistakes.

Thematic Exploration: More Than Just “Be Good”

At its core, My Way to Good Choices is about:

  1. Personal Responsibility – It’s not just about avoiding punishment but understanding how actions affect others.
  2. Emotional Intelligence – Recognizing feelings (like anger or jealousy) before they dictate behavior.
  3. Empathy – Seeing situations from another’s perspective.
  4. Problem-Solving – Encouraging kids to think of alternatives before reacting.

Unlike some moralistic tales, this book avoids black-and-white messaging. It acknowledges that mistakes happen—what matters is learning from them.

Personal Reading Experience: Why It Resonated

Reading this with my child, I noticed something remarkable: they started pausing to think before acting. The book sparked conversations like, “Remember when the character didn’t share? How did that turn out?” It’s rare to find a children’s book that truly influences behavior, but this one does—without feeling like a lecture.

The emotional impact is subtle but profound. One scene, where a child admits a mistake and fixes it, led to my own child opening up about a recent lie they’d told. That’s the power of storytelling done right.

Comparison to Other SEL Books

Compared to classics like What Should Danny Do? or The Way I Feel, My Way to Good Choices holds its own by focusing less on hypotheticals and more on realistic, everyday situations. It’s less about “choose-your-own-adventure” and more about observing consequences—making it ideal for kids who need concrete examples.

Strengths & Minor Weaknesses

Strengths:
✅ Authentic Scenarios – No far-fetched dilemmas; just relatable, daily challenges.
✅ Beautiful Illustrations – Bright, expressive, and culturally inclusive.
✅ Encourages Dialogue – Perfect for parents/teachers to discuss deeper lessons.

Possible Weaknesses:
❌ May Feel Repetitive – Some kids might want more variety in scenarios.
❌ Simplistic for Older Kids – Best for ages 4-8; older readers may need more complexity.

Target Audience: Who Should Read This?

  • Parents of kids struggling with impulse control.
  • Teachers looking for SEL read-alouds.
  • Counselors needing therapeutic storytelling tools.
  • Kids ages 4-8 (though adaptable for slightly older or younger).

Memorable Quotes & Passages

One standout moment:

“Every choice is like a seed. You won’t see the tree right away, but one day, you’ll see what grew.”

This metaphor beautifully encapsulates the book’s core message—choices shape who we become.

Final Verdict: A Must-Have for Emotional Growth

My Way to Good Choices isn’t just another children’s book—it’s a tool for nurturing responsibility, empathy, and self-awareness. Elizabeth Cole has crafted a story that’s as enjoyable as it is instructive, making it a standout in social-emotional learning literature.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver, this book belongs on your shelf. It’s the kind of story kids will ask for again and again—and each reread will reinforce lessons that last a lifetime.

🔗 Get the Book: Amazon

Discussion Questions for Readers:

  • What’s a choice your child struggled with recently? How did this book help?
  • Do you prefer SEL books with interactive elements or straightforward narratives?
  • How do you reinforce positive behavior at home or in the classroom?

Let’s chat in the comments! 📚💬

Get this book on Amazon

For more great reviews and book recommendations, visit Books By Order.

For more great reviews, visit Book Book Owl.