I'm Trying To Love Germs, written and illustrated by Bethany Barton. Viking, Penguin Random House. 2023. $25.99 ages 5 and up

 

"But when people say GERMS, 
they're usually talking about PATHOGENS. 
Pathogens are the microbes that make you sick. 

Pathogens cause stuff like 

barfing, sneezing, and diarrhea!  

So pathogens are no fun." 

As she has done previously in books describing her desire to love spiders, math, rocks, bees and garbage, Bethany Barton here introduces her readers to germs that can be both friend or foe. At first, she wants to make them aware that the book itself is covered with germs, as are their bodies inside and out. Luckily, we can't see them; they are so small. 

The first spread presents that information, and includes a close-up look at four different germs and where they are found: STAPHYLOCOCCUS EPIDERMIDIS, ASPERGILLUS NIGER, PROTEUS MIRABILIS and NEISSERIA. Say that five times fast. 

At that point, the book becomes a touch interactive - with a tiny germ getting in on the action. The author allows that the book has a zoom technology that lets readers use they finger and thumb to make things look bigger by moving in closer. Instructions are given for getting a good look at microbes and pathogens as they are called by those in the know. The talking germ is there to help readers understand. 

What's to love about germs? Starting with bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa seems useful as they are often the cause of sickness. The tables are turned when Ms. Barton explains that each can be helpful as well. She describes the people who work with germs even though they might make them sick. YUK! 

"Just like you wear a bike helmet and follow traffic rules, 
they use safety gear and follow guidelines to help them 
interact safely with infectious germs."

As her research about germs and trying to like them through understanding winds down, she offers clear advice on those steps that can be taken to avoid catching something. Be ever diligent is her main message: wash your hands! A reading list adds important resources for those wanting to know more. This book is funny, informative, and perfect for this time of year.