School Library Journal

Gr 4-7–Without becoming overly technical, the authors explain the causes, physiology, treatments, and complications associated with these conditions. The books are well organized, and each title opens with a case history of someone who suffers from the disease... The text boxes in each book include lists of famous people who suffer from the diseases, explain what readers can do to help people with the conditions, and offer various warning signs. The photos are colorful and although most are merely decorative, some are startling, including the brain scans of a patient with Alzheimer’s and one who suffers from depression. These solid introductions deserve a wide audience.

–Christine A. Moesch, City of Tonawanda Public Library, NY. May 2005

from Science Books & Films: A Critical Review Journal

Heart Disease [by Johannah Haney] is a well-written book that provides basic information concerning the heart, its functions, congenital defects, common heart diseases, and treatments. One feature which increases the book’s readability is that boldface words in the text are further defined in the glossary. The book does a good job in the first two chapters, describing the basic functions of the heart and what it is like to have heart disease. Interesting real-life cases are described that help the reader to understand the signs, symptoms, and consequences of problems of the heart.

One of the most interesting parts of this book is the chapter on the history of heart disease and its treatment. Readers with find the historical approach attention grabbing. This section is quite comprehensive, beginning in medieval times and including information about early heart surgery and transplantation, as well as predictions for the future.

The final chapter of the book discusses living with problems of the heart. This chapter describes issues connected with genetics and risk factors, diet and exercise, stress management, coping with the disease, monitoring its progress, medication, and recovery from heart surgery.

Overall, Heart Disease is a book that provides basic information to younger readers and would be helpful to family members who have the disease and in health education class.

–Anita All, University of