All the Ways to Be Smart

Product Information

Berns GS, et al. (2013). Short- and long-term effects of a novel on connectivity in the brain. DOI: This book (“All The Ways To Be Smart”) is about how being “smart” isn’t just about intellectual “smartness” but instead can encompass kindness, being artistic, being a good friend, etc. I think it’s a really important lesson that as teachers, we should be hyper aware of. It shows children that being "smart" is so much more than doing well in tests and reminds them of other important aspects of their personalities whilst showcasing all kinds of abilities. This collaboration between Davina Bell and Alison Colpoys is a celebration of what makes us us, of the strengths that we all have within ourselves – whether we’re dreamers, adventurers, readers or artists … The illustrations are whimsical and fun, with a beautiful colour palette.

Being smart is more than just one thing; it’s not just being good at taking tests or doing math or getting good grades in school. No, a person can be smart in lots of ways! They can be smart at making crafts or drawing pictures, or dancing, or being brave. They can be smart at caring for others, especially when that person is hurt or shy. They can be smart at imagination, play, music, tea parties, or even blowing bubbles. Even simply sitting still and being quiet; this is something smart, too. Rest assured, not everyone has to be smart in the same way – and sharing all the different ways we are smart makes the world better every day.Basso JC, et al. (2019). Brief, daily meditation enhances attention, memory, mood, and emotional regulation in non-experienced meditators. DOI:

Intrapersonal – ‘I use self-reflection and analysis to set personal goals and identify my strengths and weaknesses.’ Being sorry when you’re naughty’, for example, is an expression of interpersonal intelligence. ‘Drawing witches hats’ and ‘gluing wings on bats’ is linked to bodily-kinesthetic intelligence. It’s bright, happy, diverse, affirming, challenging, positive, and so much more. Bell reminds us through her words that smart can be so much more than good at reading and math. And Colpoys illustrations help make Bell’s message accessible to all children. This picture book is a celebration of creativity and the imagination. It's a celebration of empathy. It's a celebration of individuality. This is true meaning of life stuff that every child needs to hear. It should be written into the curriculum at every single school, and it should be found in every home library. Beydoun MA, et al. (2014). Caffeine and alcohol intakes and overall nutrient adequacy are associated with longitudinal cognitive performance among U.S. adults. DOI:

This should be required reading — in families, at workplaces, in schools. I love this beautiful, confidence-building book. I think everyone will find something here to make them feel better about themselves (and appreciate those around them). Anotonenko D, et al. (2013). Napping to renew learning capacity: enhanced coding after stimulation of sleep slow oscillations. DOI: