Wait What

Wait What

book

2022, Philosophy

WISE
78%

WISE Score

A punchy, perspective-shifting pep talk that argues your biggest failures are actually your best marketing for character.

Where to Read

Amazon
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Barnes & Noble
Libby
Libby

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Screenwise Verdict

If your kid is a perfectionist who melts down over a B- or a lost soccer match, Wait What is a solid corrective. Roman Gabriel Rendon isn't reinventing the wheel here, but he adds a crucial layer: failure isn't just about your own 'learning journey'—it's about how you lead others through your resilience.

It’s a quick, punchy read that feels more like a coach’s halftime speech than a dry textbook. It’s the kind of book you leave on the nightstand for a kid who’s been particularly hard on themselves lately. It’s clean, safe, and genuinely helpful for shifting the focus away from the embarrassment of failing.

Age Fit

Best for ages 10 and up. Middle schoolers and teens are at the peak of 'imaginary audience' syndrome, and this book directly addresses the fear of being seen as a failure during those high-stakes years.

WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
85

The book centers entirely on resilience and the idea that our low moments can serve as positive examples for others. It's emotionally healthy and avoids the 'toxic positivity' trap by acknowledging that failure is inevitable.

Imaginative
58

While it offers a fresh perspective on failure—focusing on the audience rather than just the self—it's a straightforward philosophy/self-help book. It doesn't build a world or invite creative play.

Safe
98

It's a motivational book about overcoming adversity. There is no mature content, violence, or hidden triggers to worry about here.

Enriching
82

Strong focus on growth mindset and personal influence. It teaches kids (and adults) that their value isn't tied to a 'win' and that how they handle a 'loss' is a form of leadership.

Parent Info
✓

Why It Might Be Great

  • Reframes failure from a source of shame into a moment of influence and leadership.
  • Growth mindset in practice—it moves beyond the buzzword to explain why 'getting back up' matters to the people watching you.
  • Empowers 'regular' kids by arguing that you don't need a massive platform or celebrity status to have a meaningful impact on others.
  • Short and accessible, making it a good choice for reluctant readers or kids who need a quick morale boost.
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What to Watch For

  • The 'hustle-culture' tone might feel a bit repetitive for some; it hammers the same point home several times.
  • It’s more of an essay or an extended speech than a narrative story, so kids who need a plot to stay engaged might drift off.

Conversation Starters

  • "When was the last time you failed at something and felt like everyone was looking at you?"
  • "Who is someone you admire for the way they handled a mistake?"
  • "Do you think it's harder to fail in private or when your friends are watching?"
  • "If you saw a friend lose a game but stay positive, would that change how you think about them?"
  • "What is one thing you're 'failing' at right now that could actually help someone else?"

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