Blog Archives
Human Physiology is Beautiful
Nurse Florence®, What is Plasma? follows curious students as Nurse Florence uses simple, accurate explanations to reveal how plasma keeps the body balanced, nourished, and healthy. How did you decide which plasma functions were essential to include while still keeping the material accessible for children?
I used the medical reference sheet by Cleveland Clinic to guide my writing. I trust kids are smart and can learn complex things if it’s broken down enough.
Were Jean, Condi, and Sonia inspired by real students or experiences from your own medical background?
No. Jean was named after Dr. Jean Watson, Condi after Condoleezza Rice, and Sonia after Sonia Sotomayor.
What challenges did you face in balancing scientific accuracy with age-appropriate language and illustrations?
Every page is a challenge and sometimes I have to trust my instinct, but the books are reviewed by the family prior to publication.
How do you hope this book will influence children’s curiosity about their own health and bodies?
Human physiology is beautiful, and I hope to inspire a whole generation into the health science careers.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Essay Contest | YouTube | Dow Creative Enterprises® | Nurse Florence Project | LinkedIn | Amazon
Nurse Florence®, What is Plasma?
Nurse Florence®, What is Plasma? offers a clear and engaging introduction to one of the body’s most essential components. The book follows three students, Jean, Condi, and Sonia, who meet with Nurse Florence during lunch and ask her how the body transports things through the blood. From there, the book presents a structured overview of plasma: its proportion within blood, its proteins and electrolytes, and its roles in immunity, hydration, nutrient distribution, and waste removal. The narrative is concise, accessible, and grounded firmly in basic health science.
One of the strengths of the book lies in its ability to introduce complex ideas without overwhelming young readers. When Nurse Florence points out that plasma makes up 55% of blood and shows an image of the yellow plasma layer above the white and red blood cells, the explanation is both simple and accurate. Similarly, the description of albumin as a protein that transports various substances, including medications, manages to convey the concept effectively without unnecessary technical language. These moments demonstrate a thoughtful balance between scientific precision and readability.
I also appreciated the book’s straightforward approach to explaining plasma’s functions. Descriptions of how plasma carries electrolytes, regulates pH, moves hormones, and distributes nutrients are presented in short, direct statements that build well on one another. Even the discussion of health concerns, such as bruising, bone pain, irregular heartbeat, and immune weakness, feels measured. The book acknowledges potential symptoms of plasma-related issues without creating fear, presenting them instead as part of a broader understanding of how the body maintains balance.
The practical guidance provided near the end reinforces the educational value of the book. Reminders to drink adequate water, eat a balanced diet, exercise, and practice proper hand hygiene are framed as sensible ways to support overall health. The story closes with the girls reflecting on what they learned, emphasizing the theme of continuous curiosity and encouraging readers to think more deeply about how their bodies work.
Nurse Florence®, What is Plasma? is a well-crafted resource for children, educators, and parents seeking a gentle introduction to human biology. It combines approachable storytelling with reliable scientific information, making it especially suitable for young readers who show an early interest in science or health. The book succeeds in presenting plasma not as an abstract concept, but as an active and vital part of daily life, and it does so with clarity, intention, and an encouraging tone.
Pages: 69 | ISBN: 1300913959
