Blood! Not Just a Vampire Drink
illustrations by
on Goodreads (187)
What’s inside...
Julia Sooy at Holt/Godwin has acquired 'Blood: Not Just a Vampire Drink' by Stacy McAnulty, illustrated by Shawna J.C. Tenney. This nonfiction picture book serves as an introduction to the significant role of blood in the human body, as narrated by a vegan vampire. The book, which is part of McAnulty's entertaining and informative STEM picture book series, is scheduled for publication in spring 2022. Lori Kilkelly at LK Literary represented both the author and the illustrator in the deal for world rights.
Discussion points
What did you learn about the different functions of blood in our bodies?
How do you think the information in the book helps us appreciate our bodies more?
Why is it important for us to know about our circulatory system?
Can you think of any ways we can keep our blood and heart healthy?
What was the most surprising fact you discovered while reading this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Introduce the topic by sharing a personal story or a simple fact about how blood works in your own body to spark interest.
Use illustrations in the book to help explain complex concepts such as circulation or blood cells function.
Encourage your child to relate the content of the book to their everyday experiences, like comparing the vascular system to roads that help in transportation.
After reading, engage your child in a light physical activity, like jumping or running, and discuss how it affects their heartbeat and blood flow.
Praise their curiosity and efforts to understand the concepts, which reinforces their interest and confidence in learning science topics.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding the importance of blood in the human body.
Explanation: The book uses engaging illustrations and simple language to explain the functions and importance of blood in our bodies.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children appreciate and understand how their bodies work, fostering a sense of bodily awareness and curiosity about human biology.
Example Lesson: Overcoming fear of medical procedures involving blood.
Explanation: Through a humorous and lighthearted tone, the book addresses common fears associated with blood, such as injections, and portrays them in a less intimidating way.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by feeling more comfortable and less fearful during doctor visits, vaccinations, or when encountering injuries that involve bleeding.
Example Lesson: Highlighting the role of healthcare professionals.
Explanation: The book introduces characters who are doctors and nurses, showing how they help people by understanding and working with blood.
Real-World Application: This insight can inspire respect and appreciation for medical professionals among children, encouraging trust and cooperation during medical care.
Example Lesson: Promoting curiosity and scientific thinking.
Explanation: Fun facts and trivia about blood are presented throughout the book, sparking interest in science and how things work.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to ask questions and seek knowledge, which can be applied in their academic subjects, especially in science.