Henry’s Heart A Boy, His Heart, and New Best Friend

Yes, the book fosters development of processes of observation, and developing a better understanding of how the human heart works. The book also fosters a better understanding of eating and exercise habits for young children.

• Author: Charise Mericle Harper
• Illustrator: Charise Mericle Harper
• Year Published: 2011
• ISBN: 978080508999

Science Topics

• Life Science

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

• Kindergarten

Maximum Suggested Grade Level

• 5th Grade

Summary

This book is about a boy named Henry and his heart. His heart loves to talk and share what he is feeling as well as how fast he is beating. When Henry sees a new friend his heart starts beating faster. Henry and his heart explore why the heart is beating faster.

Evaluation

• Appropriateness: High
• Authority: High
• Accuracy: High
• Liteary Artistry: High
• Appearance: High

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

Yes, the book fosters development of processes of observation, and developing a better understanding of how the human heart works. The book also fosters a better understanding of eating and exercise habits for young children.

Does the book provide an opportunity for children to ask and answer their own questions?

The book provides many opportunities for children to ask and answer their own questions. From the cover page children can wonder or ask what Henry’s heart will look like since both the actual shape, and the familiar heart shape everyone knows is illustrated on the cover. On the very first page of the book children find the answer to their question, a description and illustration of what the heart really looks like.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

The book does encourage children to think for themselves. The heart asks why it may be beating faster or slower a few times. Students can use the context clues to think for themselves why the heartbeat is changing. On the next page, the book provides an explanation the change in heartbeat.

Is the science topic addressed in ways that are appropriate to the lesson?

The content is appropriate to the lesson.

Is the content based on sound scientific principles? Is it accurate?

Yes, the content is based on sound scientific principles. It shows the actual shape of the heart in comparison to the common drawing of a heart that children may be familiar with. The book also provides information such as the size of the heart, and its role in blood circulation throughout the body. It also includes valuable information about exercising, and eating healthy as well as how these affect heart health. The one thing the book lacks in scientific accuracy is that it does not discuss the different parts of the heart in detail. It simply says that the heart “actually has two parts.” The heart has four major parts, the left and right ventricle, and the left and the right atrium.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

The book differentiates between fact and fiction. On the first page when a close-up of the heart is illustrated the caption reads, “a real heart looks more like this (without the eyes and mouth, of course).” This is an important disclosure because throughout the book the heart is shown as a chatty heart with eyes and a mouth. Another great differentiation is that the author chose to incorporate the visual sensory system and make it clear that the heart cannot see what a person is doing, instead the body depends on eyes for visuals.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

The illustrations are clear and accurate for the most part. The author makes sure to show what a real heart looks like, and notes that it does not have eyes and a mouth like the one in the book. However, there are major (big) and small illustrations on each page that may take away from the clarity or main point of the book.

Is the book written at the level of your students?

Yes, this book is appropriate level for students grades K-5. The book is somewhat lengthy, but it would make a great read-aloud for primary grades. The book also contains many small cartoons on each page that students would find enjoyable.

Is there a multicultural component? Is it free from stereotyping?

The main character in the book is a white male. His family includes a mother, father, and younger sister (all white). The book does depict children of color in several of the pages in the little cartoons that are added for humor. The book does not depict any racial stereotypes.

Is the book free from gender bias?

Yes, the book is free from gender bias. The main character is a male, but his younger sister appears throughout the book as well.

Does the book show the close association between science and other disciplines?

The book very closely show the association between science and other disciplines. It primarily discusses the intersection of biology and health education as well as physical education.

Does the book present a positive attitude toward science and technology?

The book definitely presents a positive attitude towards science! The chatty heart’s excitement radiates off the pages. The heart is so excited for his and his human’s everyday activities and conveys emotions that draw readers in. The heart even gives advice about healthy eating! However, there is very little technology in the book asides from the main character playing video games.