What medicine can do

PreS-Gr 2--With humor and the health concerns of three young animal friends (a raccoon, a fox, and a baby fox), Balkan explains simply that sickness is part of life, freaking out over illness is not helpful, and using the right medicine is part of a logical, analytical process. Teaming up again with Lot, with whom she created What a Map Can Do and whose art has a Keith Haring high-energy vibe, Balkan shows how to remain calm and understand what is happening when someone doesn't feel well. She introduces children to the idea of a symptom check, a systematic way of isolating and talking about the things on the body that are and aren't a problem, and when to get help from an adult or healthcare professional to determine the best medicine. Delightful illustrations capture the emotions of the young animals as they move from concern to confusion, fear, and anger, and eventually to relief because the right medicine was selected. Throughout, Balkan demystifies medicine and provides brief reminders to young readers of why medicine is important: "Medicine can help you heal;" "Medicine can keep you from getting sick." A glossary offers detailed explanations of all the terms used. VERDICT A must-have book for educators and libraries about the importance of medicine.--Sally James

What is medicine, and how can it help us when we feel "bahrumph"? "Oh,blerg!" begins this funny and useful guide. A "very annoying, very itchy patch of skin" has left Raccoon feeling "prickly. And--ouchie!" "Who did this to me?" demands Raccoon. "Do I have an enemy? Who can I blame?!" Upon finding irritated red bumps on Raccoon's leg, Great-Grand-Raccoon diagnoses the youngster with poison ivy. Though the rash isn't dangerous, Raccoon imagines taking comical measures: "Do I need a new leg? Do I need to wear armor?" Happily, Raccoon just requires some medicine; Great-Grand-Raccoon also suggests a few other actions to provide comfort, like a cool bath. Raccoon's pal Fox has more serious symptoms, and a friendly doctor diagnoses her with strep throat. Fox envisions options just as divertingly drastic before the doctor prescribes an antibiotic. Fox's infant sister receives a vaccine, accurately and soothingly explained, and her baby babbles are amusingly translated for readers' benefit. Later spreads show seven other ways to take medicine (among them pills and eyedrops) and four ways to stay healthy. Terms such asinfection andgerm are discussed in context and defined in a glossary. Lot's cute cartoon characters in bright pastels add to the buoyant and reassuring atmosphere; Balkan's accessible text offers basic information while taking away some of the scary unknowns involved with being sick. Prescribed for young readers: this clear and appealing introduction to medical encounters.(Informational picture book. 3-6) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.