This cheerful book is a part of the Nurse Florence® educational series, and it centers around teaching kids about folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, folate, or folic acid. Through a friendly lunchtime conversation between three curious girls and Nurse Florence, the book walks readers through the basics of what folic acid is, why our bodies need it, where it comes from, and what happens if we don’t get enough. It also dips into things like how folic acid is absorbed, what it does during pregnancy, and how it interacts with other medications. It’s part story, part science lesson, with a big heart.

Right off the bat, I appreciated the format. The casual back-and-forth between Nurse Florence and the kids felt warm and genuine. It’s not easy to cram medical science into a conversation without it sounding like a lecture, but somehow it works here. One moment I especially liked was when Sonia shares her mom’s lemonade, saying, “If life gives you lemons, then just make some lemonade.” It’s these little lines that add charm and a slice-of-life feel to the story. The girls aren’t just there to deliver lines; they feel like real kids asking real questions. It makes the learning part feel natural.

The book does an excellent job of presenting complex scientific concepts in a way that is accessible to children without being condescending. For instance, Nurse Florence’s explanation of how folic acid contributes to the production of red blood cells and their role in oxygen transport is both clear and informative. Notably, the inclusion of the molecular structure of folic acid is an ambitious choice for a children’s book, but it is executed well. This addition provides young readers with an authentic introduction to the scientific nature of vitamins, demonstrating a commendable respect for their capacity to understand more advanced material.

The section where Nurse Florence lists various foods rich in folic acid is thorough and informative, highlighting just how many everyday items contribute to a healthy intake of this essential vitamin. While this part is content-heavy, it effectively reinforces the message that folic acid is widely available through a balanced diet, an important takeaway for young readers. The book stands out for addressing potential side effects and medication interactions, a level of honesty and depth rarely seen in children’s health books. It adds a layer of responsibility and realism that I truly appreciated.

Nurse Florence®, Why Do We Need Vitamin B9 or Folate or Folic Acid? is a sincere and thoughtful read. It’s perfect for elementary-aged kids, especially the ones who ask a million questions about how the body works. Teachers, parents, and health educators looking to boost science literacy in young minds should definitely check it out. It’s clear, it’s caring, and it plants the seeds for a deeper interest in health and science, which, honestly, is a big deal these days. I walked away smiling, and a little more knowledgeable, too.

Pages: 68 | ISBN : 130426033X