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Reviewed by Marie-Hélène Fasquel for Readers' Favorite
Be a Blood Buddy by Akhil Vasudevan is a delightful children’s book. It thoroughly covers the topic of being a blood donor in a clear and relevant way. The book is easy to follow and is an excellent resource for adults to begin discussing this important subject with kids. The book offers numerous answers and valuable information, and the beautiful illustrations are especially comforting, reminiscent of children's drawings. The author addresses misconceptions and stigmas surrounding blood donation. This book offers a fresh and original perspective. Having two young protagonists, Matthew and Melissa, children like the readers, is a wonderful idea. Interestingly, the phlebotomist isn't the main character. Her son is, and he explains what her job entails. This is a brilliant way to simplify a complex topic as the explanation comes directly from a child. It makes it more relatable for young readers. The way he answers Melissa’s numerous questions is perfect!
Be a Blood Buddy by Akhil Vasudevan is a wonderful story and I hope many children will become blood buddies thanks to it! The issue comes from uninformed adults who refuse to donate blood out of fear. Melissa, however, wants to help change the world, one person at a time, and she starts with her dad. This is the essence of the book: changing the world, one reader at a time, as readers can discuss the theme with their relatives and friends and continue the ripple effect of positive change. This message is particularly important in today’s world: we all need to contribute to a better society, rather than focus on crises and believe we are too small to make a difference. The illustrations by Ashika Vasudevan help young readers grasp the book’s message without scaring them, as blood and needles can easily be overwhelming for young and not-so-young readers. A book to treasure that I highly recommend (being scared of needles…).
