Children And the AIDS Virus: A Book for Children, Parents, and Teachers [Library Binding]

Rosmarie Hausherr (Author)

Book Description

Explains in simple terms the body's immune system, how it is attacked by the AIDS virus, and what can be done to prevent the disease. The text is divided into a main text for the young reader and an informational subtext for adults.

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Other books about AIDS have been published for middle readers but photojournalist Hausherr is one of the first to address this perplexing tragedy in a picture book. The format places a main text printed in large type for young children, with a more detailed text printed nearby for older children and adults. Hausherr begins by asking children to look at body parts, from large to small, down to what can't be closely examined--cells. Readers are cleverly invited in: "You will be glad to know that children almost never get this virus." But when the information is of a more frightening nature, the tone becomes distant and therefore less scary: "Usually, the AIDS virus cannot enter our body through the skin." Hausherr also diminishes fear by showing what can be shared with children who have AIDS, such as kisses and funny secrets. Occasionally, material in the adult section could have been included in the large print text, such as a fuller explanation of ARC. The second part of the book is hopeful, profiling two children with AIDS--one, who at age 10, is the longest surviving child born with the virus. The last section--aimed at adults--includes a resource list and bibliography. Unfortunately, none of the books now available for older children are listed. The occasional unevenness of the book is compensated for in its overall success in reaching and reassuring its target audience. Ages 5-9.
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From School Library Journal

Kindergarten-Grade 3-- Hausherr has attempted an unenviable task: to write a book that young children can understand about a complex disease that scientists barely understand themselves. She manages to reassure readers that contracting AIDS is unlikely through normal childhood activities, and then shows attractive children (one a howling, writhing infant) who indeed have AIDS and are likely to die. The clear black-and-white photos and large print make this seem like a picture book, but much more information is given in smaller print at the bottoms of pages. The information presented in the large-print text is too difficult for the intended audience. The appendices (in even smaller print) are well-written and informative, but are not likely to be found by the 9- to 12-year-olds who might benefit from them. They include health care precautions; follow-ups on the PWA children discussed; what parents can do; addresses and phone numbers of resources; a 30-item bibliography; and an index. Jason Gaes' My Book for Kids with Cansur (Melius Peterson, 1988) does a better job of explaining to young children the feelings of and need for kindness toward the sufferer of a terrible disease. A book for adults working with children rather than for children themselves. --Anne Osborn, Riverside Public Library, Calif.
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Product Details

• Library Binding: 48 pages
• Publisher: Clarion Books (April 1989)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0899198341
• ISBN-13: 978-0899198347
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.4 pounds
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #6,064,251 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.