This book is a friendly and surprisingly thorough introduction to mast cells and their role in the immune system, told through a lunchtime chat between three curious schoolgirls and their approachable school nurse, Nurse Florence. It’s part of the “Nurse Florence®” educational series, which aims to boost health literacy among kids by gently weaving scientific concepts into relatable stories. With clear explanations, colorful illustrations, and even a glossary, the book manages to pack in solid information without overwhelming the reader.

Right off the bat, I liked the setup with a few kids hanging out at lunch, chatting with a nurse. It feels natural, and the conversation flows in a way that doesn’t talk down to kids, which is refreshing. When Nurse Florence explains that mast cells are like the body’s alarm system, it’s such a simple analogy, but super effective. I found myself nodding and thinking, “Yeah, that’s exactly how I’d explain it too.” The book balances being informative and kid-friendly surprisingly well.

I really appreciated the way complex topics were broken down. Like, the part where Nurse Florence explains histamine and how it makes your blood vessels open up, or how it leads to swelling, mucus, and even vomiting, those could’ve been gross or scary, but instead, they’re just cool and relatable! I also loved that she shows a drawing of an antibody when the kids ask to see one. That interactive tone made me smile. It made me wish I had a Nurse Florence when I was a kid.

For a book aimed at kids, Michael Dow still manages to keep things engaging through repetition and visuals. It’s smart writing that trusts kids to keep up. Plus, those cheerful, inclusive illustrations help soften the science and give it a bit of warmth.

Nurse Florence®, What is a Mast Cell? is a solid win for any kid with a curious mind, especially those who ask questions about how the body works. It’s also a great tool for parents, teachers, or even pediatric nurses who want to start health conversations with younger audiences.

Pages: 60 | ISBN : 9781304153609