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Nurse Florence®, What is Polymicrogyria?
Middle-schooler Jean’s daily routine is split between enjoying the company of friends and embarking on a unique and heartfelt mission: unraveling the mystery of her cousin’s medical condition, Polymicrogyria, under the guidance of the wise and engaging Nurse Florence. Through their shared fact-finding journey, they explore the intricacies of Polymicrogyria, unearthing tips for self-care and well-being that can enrich the lives of Jean, her cousin, and readers alike.
Nurse Florence, What is Polymicrogyria? by Michael Dow emerges as a remarkable introduction to a lesser-known medical condition. Not only did it unveil a term previously unfamiliar to me, but Nurse Florence’s insightful approach to finding accurate medical information online is skillfully presented. Particularly admirable is the character’s encouragement to approach knowledge with an open mind and to never be deterred by what we don’t yet know. Nurse Florence’s ethos of seeking answers from credible sources with courage and curiosity resonates deeply.
As my second engagement with Nurse Florence’s adventures, I find the series’ extraordinary introduction to illnesses and ailments to be an invaluable resource for readers across all age groups. While the book may benefit from a slight editorial revision, it stands as an otherwise exemplary read. The series’ gentle yet comprehensive explanations, devoid of any condescension, make it a must-read for anyone interested in medical science or in need of insights into a specific health condition. Complementing the rich content is the lively, photorealistic artwork by Kelsey Tone, infused with just the right touch of whimsy, making the Nurse Florence adventures a compelling educational tool.
Nurse Florence, What is Polymicrogyria is not merely a book; it is an accessible and enjoyable learning experience suitable for readers of all ages. Whether utilized in classrooms, group reading sessions, or individual exploration, this latest installment in a truly outstanding series makes an invaluable addition to any health and wellness collection. It encapsulates a commitment to education, a respect for the reader’s intelligence, and a sincere dedication to enhancing the understanding of health and life in the contemporary world.
Pages: 58 | ISBN : 1387524755
Nurse Florence, What is Rosacea?
Jean, Condi, and Sonia embody the curiosity that characterizes eager learners. With an insatiable desire to grasp the world around them, these three students diligently listen, probe with questions, and strive to understand complex subjects. In Nurse Florence, What is Rosacea? they explore a topic of specific interest to them: health, and they turn to the knowledgeable Nurse Florence for guidance.
When a friend confides that her mother is distressed by her rosacea, a common skin condition, the girls’ inquisitiveness leads them to Nurse Florence for insight. Through their journey, they uncover that rosacea, though common, is often misunderstood, and they learn that those who suffer from it should not feel shame.
Nurse Florence, What is Rosacea? is a fantastic book by author Michael Dow and illustrator Erin Miller. Together, they craft an informative and engaging book designed for upper-elementary and middle-grade readers. Their collaboration sheds light on rosacea and other skin conditions, demystifying them in a manner that not only fosters understanding but also compassion.
Dow’s thorough research on rosacea is evident as he simplifies the subject without diminishing its complexity. By including a glossary for more intricate terms and cleverly weaving facts into the characters’ dialogue, he creates an accessible educational experience. The intentional repetition utilized by the characters—Jean, Condi, and Sonia—reinforces learning, a technique that resonates with young readers.
But this book is not merely a dry compendium of facts. It’s a heartfelt guide, offering readers an extensive collection of information about rosacea’s triggers and preventive measures. As a former sufferer of rosacea myself, I found Dow’s dedication to educating young readers both commendable and personally meaningful.
Nurse Florence, What is Rosacea? is meaningful, informative, and written with thoughtful care. Whether you’re a child curious about health or an adult seeking to understand a prevalent condition, this book delivers a rich and engaging exploration of rosacea, making it a must-read for various age groups.
Kids Ask Great Questions
“Nurse Florence, What Are Some Summer Safety Tips?” is an informative guidebook for children, preparing them for a safe and enjoyable summer through life-saving lessons. How did you decide which summer safety tips to include in the narrative, given the vast array of possible subjects?
I did some research on the topic and started first with a respected organization, the CDC. Then, I searched for other compiled lists on the topic and those that included things the others didn’t I used as a reference which are all listed in the back of the book for people to go to the source documents.
Can you discuss the collaboration process with illustrator JoAnn Smith and how you both ensured the images would support and enhance your safety messages?
With all my illustrators, I give minimal direction so the illustrator can use their artistic freedom to create whatever they would like. For example, one of the illustration requests stated: Image on screen of child putting sunscreen cream on skin in bathing suit (about SPF number and after water). Another request stated: Sonia with her hand raised (going to talk about called 911).
As the book seems particularly useful for educators, do you have any additional resources or lesson plan ideas for teachers who want to use this book in their classrooms?
Like is mentioned in the review, the kids ask great questions. I think if a class reads this book together, they could follow the lead of the kids in the book and ask the teacher other questions that may not be covered in the book to keep the conversation going. In the Nurse Florence series, we try very hard to show kids as thoughtful, asking insightful questions and making brilliant comments. We want kids to feel empowered that they can contribute to the learning process and that it doesn’t have to be a one way direction of information.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
The next book to be published is Nurse Florence, Tell Me About the Nose. With every book, we try to include material that may be new to adults as well as kids so that when parents read any book, they will also come away with the feeling that they learned something and have a greater understanding of how their body works.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
Nurse Florence®, What are some Summer Safety Tips?
When a teacher is absent, school days are always a little more interesting. When Ms. Smith is out for the day, her substitute, Ms. Bryan, helps out guest speaker, Nurse Florence, with her presentation on summer safety. Like any other class of elementary students, Ms. Smith’s kiddos have lots of questions–all good ones at that. They are treated to a Powerpoint presentation that covers everything from water safety to stranger danger. With Nurse Florence help and detailed explanations, Ms. Smith’s students end their day more than well-prepared to head into summer and return safely to school in the fall.
Nurse Florence, What Are Some Summer Safety Tips?, written by Michael Dow and illustrated by JoAnn Smith, is a wonderful guide for children on how to meet the various challenges they may face on summer vacation. Written in a narrative form that serves as an easy-to-read guidebook, Dow’s book covers a wide variety of topics most children will encounter while school is out. In addition, Dow has included many tips that are relevant in day-to-day life.
Dow’s book is a fantastic tool for preparing students for summer break. I teach elementary school, and I can see myself including this book in a lesson at the end of the school year as my students prepare for their summer vacation. I was especially encouraged to see that Dow included advice on using and reapplying sunscreen, wearing hats, and wearing sunglasses with UV protection. As a skin cancer patient and a mother, I found this to be one of the most impactful aspects of Dow’s work.
Teachers and parents looking for a great way to educate children about summer safety will not be disappointed with their purchase. Dow provides a comprehensive list of tips that will make summer safer and more enjoyable for everyone.
Pages: 98 | ISBN: 1387845586
Getting To The Future Together
Nurse Florence®, What is Arthritis? follows a group of students who seek out the school nurse to get more information on Arthritis after a science lesson. What was the inspiration for your story?
I wanted to have a small group of kids interact with a nurse regularly so I decided that an elementary school nurse was the best option. I promote diversity and inclusion so that’s why Jean is Caucasian, Condi is African American and Sonia is Hispanic. We are only getting to the future together.
What is your background and experience in writing, and how does it help you write the Nurse Florence series?
I happen to have three Masters degrees (which was originally unplanned), and I learned to write concisely and efficiently with those degrees. We are hoping to publish a new book every week and a half this year and have met our goal so far. I have to write efficiently and accurately to do this with my limited time since I work extra shifts at the hospital.
What is one thing that people point out after reading your book that surprises you?
At first, the surprise was how surprised parents were after they read the books with their children and stepped away learning something new since it is a kids book. I feel I may have found the “secret” to make the books entertaining for kids and adults alike.
What is one question you wish that someone would ask about your book series but nobody has? And what is the answer to that question?
Is there a group of people you wish you would have represented in the series? There are two: two other girls that are Asian and Indian since they represent so many people on Earth. The next book series, which will be about mental health, will be fully diverse.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
Nurse Florence®, Tell Me About Shingles?
Nurse Florence, Tell me about Shingles? by Michael Dow is a remarkable educational resource that effectively imparts knowledge about shingles while captivating readers. The story revolves around Condi, a curious middle-schooler who seeks understanding as her beloved grandfather battles this mysterious ailment. In her quest for answers, Condi turns to the knowledgeable Nurse Florence, whose guidance proves invaluable.
One of the book’s commendable aspects is its ability to explain the complexities of shingles in a simple yet respectful manner, devoid of any hint of condescension. As an adult reader, I found myself enlightened by the comprehensive explanations provided. Prior to reading this book, I possessed only a rudimentary understanding of shingles’ connection to chickenpox. However, this enlightening narrative adeptly fills the gaps in my knowledge, making the illness approachable and relatable.
The vivid and lifelike illustrations by Lindsay Roberts enhance the educational experience. Although this particular art style may not be my personal preference for children’s fiction, it serves a crucial purpose in showcasing the symptoms of the illness with remarkable precision. The attention to detail aids in fostering a deeper comprehension of the ailment’s impact on the human body.
While the book’s present-tense format might pose a slight challenge for some readers, it undeniably serves as an invaluable tool for educating others about shingles. Whether utilized in a classroom setting or during home reading sessions with a concerned child, this book is a beacon of knowledge. Nurse Florence’s compassionate guidance permeates the pages, allowing everyone to acquire a comprehensive understanding of shingles and the importance of personal health.
Nurse Florence, Tell me about Shingles? contains exceptional explanatory content, gentle storytelling, and concrete information. It is a captivating addition to the Nurse Florence series that caters to readers of all ages, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking deeper insights into shingles and personal well-being.
Pages: 76 | ISBN: 1365758184
Nurse Florence®, What is Arthritis?
Nurse Florence®, What is Arthritis? by Michael Dow, offers a captivating and educational reading experience that is sure to intrigue young minds, fostering a genuine interest in scientific exploration. The narrative follows Jean, Condi, and Sonia as they engage in an enlightening conversation about their science class when serendipitously, they encounter Nurse Florence in the cafeteria. Curious to understand arthritis and its impact on our bones, the girls turn to Nurse Florence for answers. With great expertise and compassion, Nurse Florence delves into the complexities of arthritis, shedding light on its effects, various treatment approaches, and the demographics most prone to this condition.
Author Dow once again delivers a thought-provoking and highly enlightening literary work. The series succeeds in stimulating young readers to inquire about the intricacies of the human body, demonstrating that science can be both enjoyable and intriguing. Despite its concise length, the book effortlessly imparts a wealth of knowledge. While some vocabulary may prove challenging for younger readers, the author mitigates this concern by including a comprehensive glossary at the book’s conclusion, accompanied by a pronunciation guide at the beginning. Furthermore, the deliberate choice to portray the main characters as girls is commendable, as it addresses the underrepresentation of women in the scientific field.
The illustrations in the book possess a remarkable artistic quality, adding aesthetic appeal to the overall reading experience. The wealth of information provided by Nurse Florence is genuinely fascinating, leaving readers like myself craving further exploration of arthritis. The Nurse Florence series serves as an ideal entry point for young readers, gently nudging them into the fascinating world of science. Undoubtedly, this book would be a valuable addition to educational institutions and libraries alike, inspiring young minds and fostering a love for scientific inquiry. I eagerly anticipate the forthcoming installments in this exceptional series.
Pages: 117 | ISBN : 1312775211
Michael Dow Author Interview
Nurse Florence®, What is Atrial Fibrillation? follows a group of students who learn what A-fib is, the causes, and ways to prevent it. With this being such a complex topic, how do you decide what information to include?
Every disease book in the Nurse Florence series addresses the pathophysiology of the disease, signs and symptoms, causes, risk factors, how it is diagnosed, treatment options and prevention strategies to avoid getting the disease when possible.
The Nurse Florence series is an inspiring collection for young readers to get them excited about STEM. Do you see this branching into other areas aside from books?
Yes, I envision a TV series as well as a live action movie franchise. We are planning a line of merchandise for next year.
What were some of your inspirations as a writer?
Jim Morrison of The Doors inspired my first writing attempts in poetry. The demands of my professors in my three Master’s programs to be concise and quick with accurate information from research helped me in my writing efficiency.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from Nurse Florence® What is Atrial Fibrillation?
That they can approach a complex topic and learn the basic facts of a disease to feel empowered by their new knowledge to live a healthier life.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
LITERARY TITAN 