April 1, 2017
Gr 3-6-Fans of gross-out reads won't be disappointed by this latest entry in the popular genre. Taking readers on a journey through history, this set explores the diseases that have plagued humanity for millennia as well as the quacks and so-called healers whose horrific -cures- were often more dangerous than the illnesses they were treating. Rather than a lengthy narrative where details can get lost, two to three bite-size kernels of information appear on each page, accompanied by catchy titles like -Stinky Streets- (Plague!) and -Sweet Pees- (Strange) that immediately capture readers' interest, encourage browsing, and lend a bit of humor to the subject. The accompanying cartoon illustrations complement the text by providing a bit of whimsy and visual interest to each entry. VERDICT Reluctant readers, history enthusiasts, and trivia buffs are but a few of the kids who will enjoy the content in these repulsive reads.
Copyright 2017 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
July 1, 2017
The emphasis here is on the gross and bizarre in the history of medicine and diseases. In each book, an introduction is followed by twelve sections covering the goriest details of past epidemics, unhygienic practices, ancient medicines (e.g., poisonous hemlock) and treatments (bloodletting), "quacks," and more. Cartoon characters with horrified and disgusted expressions illustrate the brief, engaging texts. Timeline. Glos., ind.
(Copyright 2017 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)