In a dangerous and unprecedented move, on Monday, the president signed an executive order calling for fewer childhood vaccines, spacing out the vaccine schedule, and splitting vaccines into tiers (once again citing the “autism epidemic” as a reason, with zero evidence for his claims).
The American Academy of Pediatrics has called the order "disheartening" and "dangerous" in a statement issued later on Monday. Quite frankly, I find it terrifying to have someone who has no medical or scientific expertise, nor has been advised by anyone with medical or scientific expertise, to be making public health policy that directly affects our children.
I already shared this book list earlier this year when the CDC reduced the number of vaccines recommended for children. But given this new executive order, I’m sharing it again and boosting it’s visibility.
Read these picture books as a public health reminder that: Vaccines are effective. Vaccines are safe. Vaccines save lives. And Vaccines DO NOT cause autism.
Find the full list on Amazon | Bookshop, or click on the individual titles linked below:
A Vaccine is Like a Memory by Rajani LaRocca | Explains how our bodies remember past illnesses and how vaccines help protect us from new ones. Shares the history of vaccines, how vaccines work, the effectiveness of vaccines, the use of vaccines during Covid-19, and the protective power of vaccines.
The Secret Life of Viruses by Mariona Tolosa Sisteré | Introduces kids to what viruses are, how they spread, and how our bodies fight them. With engaging facts about vaccines, pandemics, and staying healthy, this empowering book helps ease fears and gives children the tools to understand the science of viruses.
How do Vaccines Work? by Katrina Liu | Getting a shot can feel scary for kids, but this beautifully illustrated STEM picture book helps ease fears by explaining the science behind immunizations. With clear, engaging language, it prepares children for doctor visits while turning worry into curiosity and confidence.
Dr. Fauci: How a Boy from Brooklyn Became America’s Doctor by Dean Robbins | A compelling picture book biography that traces Dr. Anthony Fauci’s journey from a curious Brooklyn kid to a leading public health scientist. Learn how curiosity, data, and persistence guided his work tackling major health crises, including COVID-19, across seven U.S. presidencies. Includes extensive backmatter on vaccines and advice for future scientists.
Thank You, Dr. Salk! by Dean Robbins | Tells the story of Dr. Jonas Salk, the quiet and determined scientist who developed the polio vaccine. Motivated by the Jewish value of tikkun olam ~ healing the world ~ Salk dedicated his life to stopping the spread of disease. His groundbreaking discovery saved countless lives and changed history. An author’s note includes additional insight into Dr. Salk’s life and influences, and the history of vaccines.
Baby Medical School: Vaccines by Cara Florence | An educational board book introduces kids to how vaccines work and why they’re important for protecting against measles, flu, COVID, and more. With engaging illustrations and simple explanations, it empowers young readers to approach doctor visits with courage and curiosity while sparking a love of science.
A Shot in the Arm by Don Brown | An accessible, engaging graphic novel history of vaccines, from smallpox to COVID-19. This book explores how immunization works, the scientists behind major breakthroughs, and the public health impact of vaccines. It highlights both the science and the social challenges surrounding vaccination, reminding readers how vaccines have saved, and continue to save, millions of lives.
Vaccines Change the World by Gillian King-Cargile | A kid-friendly guide to the world’s pandemics and the lifesaving vaccines that helped stop them. With engaging stories, colorful design, and accessible science, this middle grade book helps readers understand vaccines, connect past pandemics to current events, and appreciate the power of human ingenuity.
I hope these book recs are useful! Please consider subscribing for more bookish content.
Here’s to raising our young readers and future leaders~
Happy Reading and Resisting,
Maya
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