Snot, Sneezes, and Super-Spreaders: Everything You Need to Know About Viruses and How to Stop Them.
illustrations by
on Goodreads (49)
What’s inside...
Discover the extraordinary world of viruses, from their creation and transmission to what we can do to stop them, in this science-based resource for kids 8 to 12. If we didn't know it before, we certainly know it now: Viruses can be powerful-so powerful, in fact, that they can hold the world in their grip. Marc ter Horst provides clarity in the vast amount of information, explaining what viruses are, where they come from, how they work, and how we can fight them. 'Viruswereld: Over snot en superspreaders' covers everything from the Spanish flu to Ebola, and also the coronavirus. With quirky illustrations by Wendy Panders, the book not only enlightens but also adds humor and a bit of lightness, making it a pleasure to read.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think viruses spread from one person to another?
Why is it important to wash our hands and wear masks during a virus outbreak?
Can you think of ways we can help stop the spread of germs at home and in school?
What did you learn about how our bodies fight off viruses?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use real-life examples of hygiene practices like washing hands before meals to make the discussion relatable.
Encourage your child to ask questions about anything they didn’t understand in the book.
Praise their efforts to remember and implement practices that prevent the spread of viruses.
Discuss the emotions associated with being ill or seeing others ill, and how understanding viruses can help us cope better.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Personal Hygiene
Explanation: The book uses engaging narratives and colorful illustrations to demonstrate how viruses spread and the role hygiene plays in preventing illness.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by adopting regular handwashing, using tissues, and maintaining cleanliness to stay healthy and prevent the spread of germs.
Example Lesson: Understanding Science and Medicine
Explanation: The book simplifies complex concepts about viruses, including how vaccines work, making it accessible for young readers.
Real-World Application: This knowledge empowers children to trust and understand medical science and public health advice, fostering a foundation for informed decision-making as they grow.
Example Lesson: Empathy Towards the Sick
Explanation: Through stories of characters who fall ill and how their friends and family support them, the book teaches compassion.
Real-World Application: Children learn to be considerate and caring towards classmates or family members who are unwell, understanding their role in offering support.
Example Lesson: Responsibility in Preventing Illness
Explanation: The book emphasizes the impact of individual actions on the health of the community by showing how one person practicing good hygiene can prevent a virus from spreading.
Real-World Application: Kids can recognize their responsibility in maintaining public health, encouraging them to adopt and advocate for healthy practices in their community.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking About Information
Explanation: Marc Ter Horst encourages young readers to question where information comes from and how it affects their actions, particularly in the context of viral outbreaks.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to seek reliable sources and think critically about the information they hear, especially in the age of digital media.