Good thing I am not a zombie, as it would have made me very hungry to see the delicious brain in all its glory on the pages of Brains! Not Just a Zombie Snack by Stacy McAnulty. Our zombie friend/chef is the nicest zombie you will ever meet, but you better not even let them smell your brain as it is a very important item for our survival (such as running away from zombies and telling us to get our thumb out of a vampire’s mouth). This introduction to our brain is a treat and half with some seriously humorous illustrations by Matthew Rivera. Between bold, bright, perfectly detailed images, facts, jokes and puns, this book is perfect for the classroom setting. It is also good for one-on-one reading. The story format allows you to be informed and entertained at the same time.
And good thing I am not a vampire, as learning about blood in Blood! Not Just a Vampire Drink also by Stacy McAnulty would have made me thirsty, too. Maybe it is not as funny as McAnulty’s brains/zombie book, but it is equally as good. The ins and outs of our blood (while a very thirsty count waits not so patiently for a drink) are presented by a young vampire. This narrator hearts blood! But inside humans. And has a special treat for the count (though spoiler, I would recommend a strawberry shake, closer to the color needed). The illustrations of Shawna Tenney are equally amusing, bright, and informative.
Both books are great introduction to the body studies and really can be for all ages. The fiction and non-fiction combination makes them accessible and an enjoyable read.
