How & Why

Publishers Weekly - Publisher's Weekly

In a fun but not condescending way, O'Neill, who writes the Washington Post's ``How & Why'' column for young people, answers some of the questions they frequently ask about their bodies and growing up. Using a question-and-answer format, she explains how the heart works, why people have belly buttons, hiccup and burp, and why their stomachs growlmedically known as borborygmi. There also is a chapter about reproduction, puberty and aging. In addition to the straightforward answers, O'Neill stresses the need for good health habits, from an awareness of one's diet to not smoking. She also discusses why an older relative might have to modify his or her diet after experiencing a heart attack. An activities section includes a checklist on avoiding accidents, how to prevent sunburn and how to construct a stethoscope. This is a book with accessible answers for both children and parents. Illustrations not seen by PW. Ages 7-up. (May)