From School Library Journal
Kindergarten-Grade 2-This newly illustrated edition of Why I Cough, Sneeze, Shiver, Hiccup, and Yawn (Crowell, 1983) offers very basic explanations. In his trademark succinct style, Berger describes how automatic reflexes cause us to try to generate heat (shivering) or to get more oxygen (yawning). He also explains that the nervous system carries messages back and forth from the brain like telephone wires, and that these automatic reflexes help protect us from burning ourselves, from breathing in foreign objects, etc. In this new edition, the author suggests ways to test one's reflexes and describes "startle" reflexes and goose bumps. The writing is simple but effective, and the charming, colorful pen-and-ink and watercolors are much more detailed than the original black-and-white artwork by Holly Keller. Attractive introductory nonfiction.
Christine A. Moesch, Buffalo & Erie County Public Library, NY Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.
About the Author
Melvin Berger is the author of more than 200 books for children. Among his Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science titles are
Germs Make Me Sick! illustrated by Marilyn Hafner, and
Chirping Crickets illustrated by Megan Lloyd. Mr Berger lives in East Hampton, New York, with his wife.
