If I Were in Charge, the Rules Would be Different

Name: If I Were in Charge, the Rules Would be Different
ISBN: 9780439208642

For the child who feels frustrated by everyday rules, this playful poetry collection imagines a world where kids call the shots, making chores fun and bedtime optional.

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About This Book

A parent should reach for this book when their child is pushing back against rules and frequently declaring, 'It's not fair!'. This hilarious collection of poems is told from the perspective of a boy who imagines what life would be like if kids were in charge. Rules are delightfully upended: homework is outlawed, pets can be anything you want, and grown-ups have to take naps. It validates a child's feelings of frustration with authority while channeling them into creative, humorous outlets. Perfect for early elementary readers, this book uses silliness to open conversations about why rules exist, all while providing a joyful, empowering reading experience.

Creativity & Imagination Humor Freedom & Independence Justice & Fairness Growing Up School Life Family & Siblings Joy & Gratitude

What Parents Should Know

Sensitive Topics

The book does not contain sensitive topics like death, divorce, or disability. The central conflict is a child's frustration with adult authority, but it is handled in a completely humorous, lighthearted, and metaphorical way. The approach is secular and the resolution of each poem is pure wish-fulfillment and comedy.

Ideal Reader

The ideal reader is a 6 to 8-year-old who is beginning to question authority and test boundaries. This book is perfect for the child who is obsessed with fairness, regularly complains about chores or bedtime, and has a burgeoning, slightly mischievous, sense of humor. They likely enjoy making up their own games and stories.