GERMY SCIENCE

Icky, germy pathogens of all sorts are introduced in this newest addition to the Gross Science series.

Germs are everywhere, in everything, and they are even on you. Millions can fit on a pin point. Germs come in many varieties too, not just as bacteria and viruses most readers are familiar with, but also as fungi and protozoa. Tracing the history of infectious disease, Kay explores early theories of disease spread, the discovery of microorganisms, and ultimately how germ theory was discovered and proven. How our immune system fights off germy invaders and what we can do to help are also discussed along with plenty more interesting tidbits about humans’ relationships with microbes. In introducing these complex science topics, Kay shows great respect for his readers: The text does not shy away from challenging vocabulary but always explains concepts at an approachable level. This book is notable for its inclusion of a nuanced view of the microbiome, acknowledging that germs are not all bad, that their harm depends on context, and that they can even be beneficial. Shiell supplies goofy cartoons of racially diverse humans in varying degrees of health and of greatly magnified germs, supplying them with googly eyes (in varying number) and grins or frowns, depending on circumstance. Though books on germs are plentiful, these germs are a worthwhile addition to science shelves. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

A fast-paced and fun introduction to the mysteries of microbes.