Sometimes it seems like kids' favorite questions are "Why?" and "How?" As much as we'd like our charges to accept "Because I said so," as the truest and correct answer, we know that it's not.
The next time you are about to field a bunch of questions about why your kids are going to get an "ouch in the arm" at their upcoming doctor's appointment, these books about the miracles of vaccines will answer all their pressing concerns as well as offer up some fascinating science.
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Table of contents
Picture Books
Baby Medical School: Vaccines by Cara Florance and Jon Florance
A cheerful book about vaccines for those getting ready to get their immunizations! Bright graphic illustrations help explain in simple terms why vaccines are important and how they work, calming fears and answering the questions of anxious toddlers and preschoolers. Ages 2 and up.
A Vaccine Is Like a Memory by Rajani LaRocca, illustrated by Kathleen Marcotte
This is a terrific picture book with tons of information presented in an engaging format with the kind of illustrations that encourage kids to take a closer look. I loved how LaRocca was able to weave in vaccine history as well as explaining to kids the hows and whys of vaccinations–all without talking down to them. Ages 6 and up.
The Secret Life of Viruses by Mariona Tolosa Sisteré, illustrated by Ellas Educan Collective
Facts about viruses are presented with humorous text and whimsical illustrations. A couple of highlights include the double page illustration of a plethora of anthropomorphized viruses, as well as the journey of what happens to a virus as it enters a vaccinated body! Ages 5 and up
You Wouldn't Want to Live Without Vaccinations! by Anne Rooney, illustrated by David Antram
Find it: Amazon
This whole series is a clever approach to cultural history and science topics. Unfortunately it is out of print but most libraries will have a copy. Lots of illustrations and gross-out facts appeal to kids who love humor in their nonfiction! This book was also published as You Wouldn't Want to Live Without Immunisation! in the UK. Ages 6 and up
MORE: Books About the Human Body
Middle Grade
A Shot in the Arm! by Don Brown
Brown's Big Ideas That Changed the World is a great nonfiction graphic novel series and A Shot in the Arm is a timely story of one of the most important public health developments in human history. Brown focuses on the history of vaccinations beginning primarily in the 17th century with smallpox. He details the important scientists and public figures who were integral to vaccine development and deployment all the way through to the present. Ages 8 and up.
Why We Need Vaccines: How Humans Beat Infectious Diseases by Rowena Rae, illustrated by Paige Stampatori
Older students will get a ton of information about the science behind vaccines. Rae also sensitively addresses the anti-vax movement, why some individuals don't get vaccinated, whether for religious, health or personal reasons, as well as offering good advice on how to avoid misinformation. Ages 9 and up.
MORE: Fascinating Books About the Brain
Picture Book Biographies
Thank You, Dr. Salk!: The Scientist Who Beat Polio and Healed the World by Dean Robbins, illustrated by Mike Dutton
Find it: Amazon
Thank you Dr. Salk, indeed! Growing up, Salk inspired by was Jewish concept of tikkun olam, which means to heal or improve the world. I think we can all agree he succeeded! This biography gives insight into Salk's interest in healing and his work creating and distributing the polio vaccine. Ages 5 and up
The Polio Pioneer: Dr. Jonas Salk and the Polio Vaccine by Linda Elovitz Marshall, illustrated by Lisa Anchin
Here's another picture book biography of Dr. Salk that shares how seeing soldiers returning from WWI inspried him to find ways to heal others. He grew up in an observant Jewish community, became a doctor and worked on the first flu vaccine before bringing the first polio vaccine to children in the 1950s. Ages 5 and up
MORE: Picture Book Biographies of Women Scientists!
Kati's Tiny Messengers by Megan Hoyt, Illustrated by Vivien Mildenberger
The Hungarian-born Katalin Karikó is not a household name like Dr. Salk, but her work as a scientist to understand DNA and messenger RNA was (and still is!) vital to the development of new vaccines. The story showcases Karikó's journey as an immigrant, her work in the lab and does a pretty good job of teaching readers about some complicated science! Ages 5 and up
MORE: Want to know more about one of the most amazing public health achievements? Visit The American Academy of Pediatricians for more information.
