Synopsis: Ground-up mummy bones, leeches sucking human blood, and a
breakfast of dried mouse paste. It sounds like a horror movie, but those were
actual medicines prescribed by early doctors. Medical students studied anatomy
on bodies stolen from graves and had to operate on people while they were
awake. Learn about the medicines that came from poison and doctors who
experimented on themselves and their families. It's a twisted tale of medical
mayhem, but it's all true! (from the back of the book)
Review: This book is intended for a younger audience. The
writing is about a third-fourth grade level. But this doesn’t mean that Bearce
dumbed down the science. She uses clinical terms, even Latin, and talks about
microbes, chemicals, and human body parts with intelligence and openness. The
book is organized in a time-line, starting with ancient medical remedies and
moving to modern medicine. Accompanying the text are funny illustrates, side
notes about science, and even how-to experiments! There is some reference to
some gross and graphic medical procedures, but nothing inappropriate for
younger minds. She is honest about issues as well, explaining how social
convention often was at odds with scientific evidence. There is no reference to
sex or sexually transmitted diseases in the book, in case parents are concerned
about that issue.
This would be excellent for home-school or classroom use.
Interesting and engaging, while staying true to scientific principles, kids
will enjoy reading and learning from this book.
Note: I received this book free through LibraryThing's Early Review Program, in exchange for my fair and honest opinion.
Bookmarks: 4 of 5
Awards: None
ISBN: 976-1-61821-572-7
Year Published: 2017
Date Finished: 3-6-2017
Pages: 147
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