Influenza and Other Viruses

Children's Literature

By combining viruses and influenza in an educational book, children can begin to understand the similarities and differences in the cause, spread, symptoms and treatment of the common cold and influenza. Other viral infections are touched upon, including meningitis, polio, mononucleosis, common childhood diseases, STDs, Hepatitis and AIDS. A practical discussion about the uses and differences in over-the-counter medicines is included. The 64-page book has an attractive layout, with special information set out in color for emphasis. Chapters are prefaced with overviews that cover a lot of information in bulleted format, enough to help report writers get organized. Most chapters open with a vignette of real-teen experience, in this case, kids talking about spreading germs and feeling sick, and nearly every page contains a picture, At a Glance Facts, Myth vs. Fact, Fast Facts or Did You Know bits of information to support the text. The end-of-chapter questions are thought-provoking. There is a glossary of key words, an index and reference lists that include books, professional organizations and Internet sites. The book is part of the "Perspectives on Disease and Illness" series. Charles Grose, M.D., Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Iowa Hospital served as medical consultant. 2002, LifeMatters/Capstone Press, $23.93. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Elaine Wick AGES: 10 11 12 13 14 15