The How and Wow of the Human Body

January 15, 2021
An effervescent tour of the preteen "walking, talking, barfing, breathing, pooping body of wow!" The hosts of NPR podcast Wow in the World lose none of their energy or comic timing in reeling off a highlights-style swing through pubescent anatomy from brain ("it's what makes up your mind") to butt. Though the section on the reproductive system is conspicuously sparse on specifics, care is taken to discuss the complexity of sexual identity, and a Let's Play Puberty! board game features the appearance of "lumps" on throats and chests. Any readers yearning for poop on poop, not to mention boogers (and "eye boogers"), earwax, mucus, spit, intestinal gas, body odors, and blood, will be well served, though. The instructions for creating dental cavities and other dubious projects are justly labeled "Don't try this at home!" Amid the laffs the authors deliver a solid load of accurate basic information about organs and body systems. Teagle follows suit with cartoon scenes of animated body parts and of the White authors with a racially diverse cast of other humans (some who use wheelchairs) all looking dismayed or excited and often associated with splatters of green gas or goo. Maris Wicks' unsurpassed Human Body Theater (2015) caps a select but audience-friendly reading list at the end, next to a set of QR codes leading to relevant episodes of the podcast. A clever, high-energy crowd pleaser well founded in facts--the grosser the better. (glossary, source notes, index) (Nonfiction. 8-11)

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April 1, 2021

Gr 3-8-This title is the first installment in a new, high-interest series based on the popular podcast by Thomas and Raz. Much like the Wow in the World podcast, the book is fast-paced and lighthearted yet informative and intriguing. Every section covers a different body system. Each area of the body is described in a brief discussion complemented by comic-style illustrations. The authors are depicted in illustrated form along with anthropomorphic cells and organs. The text focuses on providing general knowledge and fun facts rather than sharing in-depth scientific information. However, the authors provide clear explanations of the unique function and characteristics of each part of the body, which will surely appeal to kids. Readers will be entertained to learn why sweat smells and who holds the record for largest nose and longest ear hair while obtaining advice on personal health and hygiene. Detailed source notes, recommended reading, an index, and QR codes to relevant episodes of the podcast are included. VERDICT A quality addition to nonfiction collections for youth.-Kelly Jahng, South Park Elem. Sch., IL

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