On the way to a doctor checkup, a young child asks an important question: Do animals that live in really cold places ever get sick? From the same author as "Did Dinosaurs Have Dentists?", this new picture book from the team of author Patrick O'Donnell and illustrator Erik Mehlen, "Do Penguins Have Pediatricians?" uses Arctic and Antarctic creatures to lessen anxiety about the doctor. Can penguins catch pneumonia? Can a caribou get chicken pox? By introducing ailments through charmingly drawn animals, this humorous look at common childhood illnesses will ease the fears and worries many kids ages 5-6 can have about visiting the doctor. The colorfully illustrated story contains 14 common terms related to children's health, as well as a glossary of fun, scientific facts about each of the animals featured. While an especially recommended addition to family, elementary school, and community library collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Do Penguins Have Pediatricians?" is also available in a paperback edition. -- Midwest Book Review, Children's Bookwatch
This book would be perfect for children between the ages of two and five. Because it features a variety of animals, it is a great selection for those children that love animalseven some more unique ones like the narwhal and the lemming. I would also recommend this book to a child who is ill or even needs to go to their regular doctor check-ups. It is a humorous way of showing that sickness and injuries happen but we all (animals included) need to get medical help when required. I think the story could diffuse some of the anxiety children might experience when going to the doctor.(5 starred review) -- Youth Services Book Review
