Dr. Jonas Salk finds the cure for polio in this inspiring, educational, and timely nonfiction picture book.
Jonas Salk wasn't seen as a brave hero—not at first. As a child he was quiet and unassuming, but Jonas dreamed of tikkun olam, the Jewish phrase for "healing the world." He saw the polio virus strike his city, and he knew that with determination and hard work, he could be the one to stop its spread. So he grew up to study medicine, ultimately creating the polio vaccine that saved untold numbers of lives—and healed the world!
With Dean Robbins's inspiring text and Mike Dutton's dynamic illustrations, Thank You, Dr. Salk! is a true and timely story of trials, triumph, and what it takes to achieve your dreams. An author's note provides additional insight into Dr. Salk's life and influences, and the history of vaccines.
Thank You, Dr. Salk!
The Scientist Who Beat Polio and Healed the World
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Creators
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Publisher
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Release date
June 22, 2021 -
Formats
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Kindle Book
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OverDrive Read
- ISBN: 9780374390082
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Languages
- English
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Levels
- ATOS Level: 3.1
- Lexile® Measure: 560
- Interest Level: K-3(LG)
- Text Difficulty: 0-2
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Reviews
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May 15, 2021
An unconventional hero puts his skills to work. Clear, straightforward text and bright, appealing pictures featuring a multiracial cast tell the story of Jonas Salk, Jewish American creator of the polio vaccine, in this timely selection. From childhood, young Jonas saw the effects of polio, and, inspired by the Jewish concept of tikkun olam--translated here as "healing the world"--he set out to make a difference by extensive study and experimentation, even testing his vaccine on himself and his family prior to releasing it to the general population without ever selling it or claiming ownership. Children will easily draw a parallel to Covid-19 and so will be interested in the history as well as the mechanics of vaccines. They may be surprised to see that participating in a vaccination program can inspire pride and a feeling of accomplishment (Salk's vaccine was initially provided to American first, second, and third graders in a pioneering clinical trial) and be comforted by evidence that an epidemic can be addressed and controlled. A hardworking title, this is a great choice for allaying vaccination fears, communicating the importance of science and medicine, showing that heroes come in many forms, and explaining that education, creativity, resilience, and dedication can lead to achievements and concrete results. An engaging blend of history, biography, science, and epidemiology that is sure to inspire and inform. (author's note, timeline, resources) (Picture book/biography. 4-8)COPYRIGHT(2021) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
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June 1, 2021
Preschool-Grade 3 Born in New York City in 1914, Jonas Salk grew up during a polio epidemic and saw its effects within his neighborhood. Children were kept away from parks and pools for fear of contracting the disease, and those who survived it passed his window using canes, crutches, and wheelchairs. Inspired by the concept of tikkun olam (healing the world) in his Jewish faith, the boy set a personal goal of eradicating diseases, including polio. Years later, after graduating from medical school, he began his research. His most notable achievement came in 1955 when his polio vaccine was proven to prevent the disease. Salk, who gave his vaccine to the world without seeking any profit, became a hero. Telling a story that certainly resonates today, Robbins offers a clear, straightforward narrative that gives significant weight to Salk's experiences during his youth. Dutton's illustrations are colorful and expressive. Appended features include a more detailed account of Salk's life, an explanation of how vaccines fight viruses, and a history-of-vaccines time line. An informative and inspiring picture book.COPYRIGHT(2021) Booklist, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
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