I'm a Virus! (Science Buddies)

In this accessible introduction to virology with a section that discusses Covid-19 and vaccines, Heos employs a novel approach: a rhinovirus narrator, portrayed as a smiling, rounded green virion, takes readers along on its journey, leaving a light-skinned child host to infect a light-brown-skinned child host with the common cold. Invitingly peppered with onomatopoeia, the narrative is both conversational and comprehensive: "You now have a headache and a runny nose. Don't blame me... that's your white blood cells' fault!" Ciccotello includes labeled diagrams aplenty and expressive, cartoon-style virions and cells rendered digitally. A promising series starter that's sure to engage and educate on a timely subject. Back matter includes more information on smallpox, vaccines, and different types of white blood cells, and a glossary. Ages 3-7. (Mar.)

PreS-Gr 3--A topical primer on viruses and how our bodies fight them, as narrated in the first person by a virus. The narrator seems nice enough, until it enters the nose and starts making a mess of things. Luckily white blood cells and antibodies are there to help the body fight back. This quick read is a great introduction to viruses, with several pages dedicated to information about the novel coronavirus. The illustrations provide easy-to-understand diagrams of cells, virions, antibodies, vaccines, and more. Also included are a glossary of terms, recommendations for further reading, and a bibliography. The host character has brown hair and light brown skin. VERDICT Although a fictionalized treatment, this is recommended purchase for the pandemic and beyond--it's first-class science served up accessibly.--Laken Hottle