Nurse Florence, What Do Hormones Control? by Michael Dow invites young readers into the fascinating world of hormones through a lively exchange between Nurse Florence and a circle of inquisitive students. The narrative moves quickly yet smoothly, guiding children through what hormones are, how amino acids help create them, and why these chemical messengers influence everything from appetite and growth to mood and sleep. Clear explanations, approachable language, and an assortment of fun facts, food examples, and real-life scenarios help anchor the concepts. Emily Daugherty’s illustrations further illuminate the material, turning complex biology into something both welcoming and enjoyable.

Dow’s approach is inventive and well-paced, offering an accessible entry point into a topic that can easily overwhelm. Framing the lesson as a casual lunchroom conversation softens the science and creates a sense of ease, as though readers are simply listening in on a friendly chat. Nurse Florence serves as a confident and reassuring guide, encouraging curiosity and giving children the freedom to explore scientific terms and medical ideas without intimidation.

Clarity stands out as one of the book’s defining strengths. Technical words, amino acids, homeostasis, and others, are introduced thoughtfully and woven into everyday dialogue, complete with pronunciation guides to support young learners. Vivid, relatable examples, such as signals traveling from the stomach to the brain to announce hunger, help translate abstract science into something tangible. Dow’s commitment to building health literacy is unmistakable, extending from his careful explanations to his emphasis on real dietary sources of the nutrients that support healthy hormone function. Rather than relying on oversimplification, the book presents a genuine, interconnected view of the body, linking hormones to emotions, physical development, sleep patterns, and reproduction.

Emily Daugherty’s artwork enriches each chapter, giving readers visual anchors for the chemical structures and processes described on the page. A glossary and journal section at the end offer additional layers of engagement, transforming the book into a resource that can grow with young readers. While certain scientific terms may stretch the vocabulary of the youngest audience members, the narrative encourages discussion and welcomes adult guidance, making questions a natural part of the learning journey.

Nurse Florence, What Do Hormones Control? lays a solid foundation for budding interest in science and personal health. Families, educators, and school libraries will find it a valuable tool for nurturing curiosity and helping children build an early understanding of how their bodies work.

Pages: 66 | ISBN: 1300839228