Bodies, Brains and Bogies by Dr Paul Ian Cross reviewed
“Our bodies are weird. Our brains are even weirder. And our bogies? Well, they’re just gross.”
So starts chapter one of Bodies, Brains and Bogies by Dr Paul Ian Cross, his latest funny and informative book on the human body, for eight to twelve-year-olds.
In these days of smartphones, tablets, gaming, Instagram and TikTok, it is increasingly difficult to get children to read books. Now more than ever, we need books that grab, and keep, children’s attention. When it comes to STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) subjects, information that is presented in a fun, accessible and interactive way will also help them to remember what they have read.
Covering all areas of the body from anatomy, the brain, the skeleton and skin to the senses, organs, reproduction as well as investigating emotions and well-being, the author presents all that is amazing, fascinating and disgusting about the human body.
The fantastic illustrations and diagrams are fun and informative and succeed in prompting reactions for the “grossometer” and are bound to capture the attention of any self-respecting “grossologist”. Not sure which section children will find the grossest, but those on bogies, farts and poop (surely an American version of our word?) are sure to be high in the list.
Facts are presented in different and digestible ways to make them easy to understand and absorb. There are puzzles, questions, true or false quizzes, fascinating facts and did you know boxes – all designed to keep children engaged. A to-do list is used to explain the functions of the brain; the importance of the thumb to human progress is explained using examples from children’s lives – the ability to draw, paint, play an instrument or take part in gaming. New vocabulary (anatomy, cognition, evolution for example) is introduced clearly to help understanding. As well as the illustrations, the text uses fun alliteration in headings; boxes and labelled diagrams; and eye-catching bold fonts to present information succinctly.
The final chapter, Body Beautiful, is particularly pertinent today with sections on body image, self-esteem and well-being, to help children see the human body and mind in a holistic way.
This book is full of humour and amazing facts (the brain has 100 trillion neural connections, 1,000 times more than there are stars in the Milky Way and the fact that the sound of our voices depends on the shape of our nose, were two that struck me!)
Bodies, Brains and Bogies is a great read (not just for children!) and an engaging way to find out about the wonders and mysteries of the human body.
About the author
Paul Ian Cross PhD, is a scientist, researcher, writer, and educator from London, UK, now living in Rye.
Paul works in clinical research, developing new medicines, and he’s also a science communicator, presenting science to non-scientists. Paul specialises in vaccine development and has an interest in pharmacovigilance, the safety of medicinal products.
Paul’s popular social media accounts are full of STEM-themed content for all ages, but particularly for parents and adults to share with the children in their lives.
In addition to his research career, Paul has a passion for introducing children to STEM subjects, particularly reluctant readers. By introducing science creatively, he aims to spark their interest, allowing them to gain confidence with their reading. As a previous reluctant reader himself, he understands how hard it can be. But it’s all about making reading fun and interesting.
Other books by Paul Ian Cross
How to Vanquish a Virus – The truth about viruses, vaccines and more
The Chronicles of Engella Rhys – a series of science fiction novels for young teens
Prax and the Ringing Robot e-book can be downloaded here.
Image Credits: Paul Ian Cross/Steve Brown , Paul Ian Cross .