The Hospital

April 1, 2022

Gr 1-3-Hospitals can be scary-especially for kids. There are so many unknowns, so many rules, so many new people and things! But Nwora, a doctor at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, MD, and Hsu ease some of those fears by revealing the mysteries of the institution. They introduce a range of scenarios children might encounter over the course of a day, from checking in at reception to eating in the cafeteria to getting an X-ray to new babies being born. These stories are arranged chronologically, from morning until evening, and they showcase some time-sensitive elements, such as "morning labs" and evening patient checks. The illustrated vignettes are colorful without being intimidating or saccharine. Hsu's engaging artwork complements Nwora's simple and clear text, written in a tone meant to appeal to young readers. There are reassurances and reminders that will help children feel more confident and comfortable with the hospital. Included in the end materials are a glossary and index, to answer some of the questions that may pop up, too. VERDICT For libraries looking to satisfy young minds interested health sciences or looking to meet community needs, this is a book that will bring peace during anxious times.-Jessica Schriver

Copyright 2022 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

April 15, 2022
Grades 2-5 With bright, busy art and a lively approach, this picture book introduces many services hospitals provide. Following the author's upbeat foreword, the narrative presents a day at a hospital through the experiences of a wide range of adults, children, patients, and staff. For example, Tessa, who's due to give birth, and her partner, Omari, highlight check-in procedures, the maternity ward, and welcoming a new baby. Readers learn about the operating room while Hira has an appendectomy. After falling on the playground, Kevin is treated by paramedics in an ambulance and then at the hospital for a broken arm. Abundant other topics span outpatient-clinic and mental-health services, the ER, the kitchen, and more. Interspersed throughout are explanations of medical equipment, hospital staff (e.g., anesthesiologist, pharmacist), and common procedures, like drawing blood. The somewhat text-dense pages incorporate direct-address and peppy commentary, and the explanations of scientific concepts range from more detailed--like the discussion of radiology--to more general. While the volume of info nearly overwhelms, it should also pique interest and perhaps allay fears, including for first-time patients or visitors.

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