James Turner Books

This is unapologetically and undeniably a book about poo.

It’s a fact-based science comic book, and likely to appeal to fans of “A Day in the Life of a Poo, a Gnu and You” and other books in that series. There’s a lot of information crammed in about the digestive system, including comparing the human digestive process with that of other animals. There’s also detailed discussion of how sewage is processed. It’s all presented in a cheerful comic style in full colour throughout the book, with a lot of jokes thrown in.

Instructions for how to draw the two main characters are a nice addition. The style makes the book accessible for a wide range of ages and reading abilities. The authors don’t shy away from using technical vocabulary about the digestive system, but do introduce and clearly explain any terms that are likely to be unfamiliar. There’s also a helpful glossary provided at the back.

The subject matter means this book won’t appeal to all children; it’s not a book for the squeamish. Those children that do choose to read it are likely to love it and will laugh and learn a lot along the way.