Bugs in My Hair! by D. Shannon

Authors

  • Connie Winther

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.20361/G2DP4S

Abstract

Shannon, David. Bugs in My Hair! New York: Scholastic-The Blue Sky Press, 2013. Print.

Bugs in My Hair! is an illustrated story book about head lice by acclaimed children’s author and illustrator David Shannon. This highly recommended book would be a good addition to any public, school, or health library interested in providing accurate but engaging information about head lice which is a common condition in the preschool and primary school age groups.

The book sheds a humorous light on the not so funny topic of head lice through the experience of a young boy with this condition. Through this fictional account, Bugs in My Hair! portrays accurate medical information about head lice including method of transmission, symptoms, diagnosis, and cure. This book also dispels common myths about head lice, such as the ability to get head lice from animals, or using mayonnaise as a remedy. The story also depicts the social stigma and shame of having head lice and the feeling of being overwhelmed by the treatments,  which would help a child understand the emotional experience or empathize with others who have head lice.

The book has detailed and amusing illustrations such as the “lice-a-palooza” party on the host’s head. The age appropriate illustrations together with the hand drawn font keep the reader’s interest and charge the imagination.

All in all, Bugs in My Hair!, is a fun and accurate read and a good way for children and parents to learn about head lice.

Highly Recommended: 4 out of 4 stars
Reviewer: Connie Winther

Connie is a Medical Librarian with Alberta Health Services. She has a broad interest in health care and medical librarianship. When not working, she enjoys all types of outdoor activities with her family

Author Biography

Connie Winther

Medical Librarian

Published

2014-10-16

How to Cite

Winther, C. (2014). Bugs in My Hair! by D. Shannon. The Deakin Review of Children’s Literature, 4(2). https://doi.org/10.20361/G2DP4S

Issue

Section

Book Reviews