REVIEW
The I'm Trying to Love Germs book by Bethany Barton (Viking Books, 2023) is a great way to teach elementary-aged kids about germs. It provides in-depth descriptions of microbes and germs. The book is silly and fun and gives real-life examples of how you can tell a germ is around, such as sneezing and bathroom problems. The book is packed with information and drawn in a comic book style with interactive features, like an app in book form. For younger readers, the text may be difficult to follow without an adult reading along with the child. I recommend that parents read this book to their young children. Kids aged 8-10 would be able to read the book on their own.
The narrator is a microbe that takes the reader on an information adventure to explain the power of germs. I’m Trying to Love Germs also explains ways you can prevent illness, like washing your hands thoroughly and getting vaccines. The author assures the reader: “Germs still make contact? Fear not! These heroes break down the cell walls of most germs - destroying them before they infect you.”
Additionally, as the title describes, the author explains to readers why they should love germs (or more specifically microbes), because people need microbes to survive. Readers learn that “Humans (like you) actually have billions of helpful microbes in their bodies, doing important stuff you need to survive.” All in all a fun book that tackles the ick factor!
ABOUT THE REVIEWER
Helen Wheeler is an 8th-grader who lives with her family in North Carolina. She is a competitive figure skater, participates in the Science Olympiad, tutors elementary students, and enjoys drawing. Helen’s favorite genres to read are graphic novels and YA contemporary fiction.
GIVEAWAY
Viking Books is providing a giveaway copy of I'm Trying to Love Germs to one fortunate reader. Leave me a comment with your email address if you are new to my blog, by January 11. As always, if you are an educator or librarian or sign up to follow my blog, I'll put your name in twice. U.S. addresses only.
15 comments:
This book does look like a lot of fun to read. I always learn more when I'm having fun and can't wait to read this.
Thanks, Danielle. Your name starts the list!
I remember reading a book like this called "I'M TRYING TO LOVE ROCKS" and it's always a heartwarming kindergarten memory. I would love to read this story with my brother! Great job on the book review Helen!
What a timely topic considering our last few years with covid. My grandchildren are the perfect age for this book that will hopefully help them learn that germs don't just mean covid.
Thanks, Brooke. That was the same author! Your name goes into the hat.
Thanks, Darlene. I hope so too!
This reminds me of a book about trying to love spiders. I love the idea of this. I would LOVE to win this!
My doctor may need this for her waiting room.
Wonderful review! Sounds like a fun picture book! 💜
Thank you Georgie and LInda. Yes--it would make a good book for a doctor's waiting room!!
What a fun and informative book. The format is a great start for learning about germs. I'll let someone else win who can get to enjoying it quicker that I could. Thanks for featuring this title on MMGM.
Another wonderful review and reviewer. Thanks for telling me about this. It sounds fun, but I will pass on the giveaway. Too many books on my pile.
Great review! Not sure if I will ever get to love germs (even useful necessary microbes!) but it sounds like a great way for kids to learn about them. Thanks for sharing!
I'm with you, Valinora! Thanks for your comment.
I would love to put this book in my substitute teacher bag. Thanks! Carrie
Thanks for your comment, Carrie, but the giveaway is over. Please enter for another book--and watch the deadline date!
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