The Human Microbiome

The Germs That Keep You Healthy

  • Interest Level: Grade 6 - Grade 12
  • Reading Level: Grade 8

Trillions and trillions of microbial cells live on and inside your body. A small number of these microbes are unhealthy germs. But most belong on your body and perform essential jobs. Microbes help digest your food, protect you from dangerous germs, and help your body fight disease.

Using techniques such as DNA sequencing, scientists are uncovering the many secrets of the human microbiome. Scientists are learning how the foods we eat and the medicines we take, such as microbe-killing antibiotics, can affect the bugs in our bodies. They are learning more and more about this system that keeps us healthy and how we can protect it in return.

Format Your Price Add
978-1-5124-2071-5
$38.99
Available at all major wholesalers and distributors. Save 25% off list price on hardcovers and ebooks when you buy direct! Digital purchases will be accessed on Lerner Digital Bookshelf. An account will be created for you after purchase.
Interest Level Grade 6 - Grade 12
Reading Level Grade 8
Genre Science, Young Adult
Category STEM, STEM: Life Science/Health and Human Body
Copyright 2017
Publisher Lerner Publishing Group
Imprint Twenty-First Century Books ™
Language English
Number of Pages 112
Publication Date 2016-08-01
Reading Counts! Level 11.5
Text Type Informational/Explanatory
BISACS YAN050010, YAN024020, YAN024000
Dewey 612
Dimensions 7 x 9
Lexile 1150
ATOS Reading Level 8.7
Accelerated Reader® Quiz 182228
Accelerated Reader® Points 4.0
Features Awards, Bibliography/further reading, Charts/Graphs/Diagrams, Glossary, Index, Reviewed, Source notes, and Table of contents

Awards

  • Notable Award Children's Book Committee at Bank Street College Best Children's Book of the Year, Winner, 2017

Reviews

VOYA

“This book is a valuable resource for readers looking for easily understood information on this complex topic.”—VOYA

School Library Journal

“Unexpectedly informative and up-to-the-minute in research, this is a nifty look through a clear window at our unsuspected personal passengers. Consider this in-depth resource for reports and students who are not easily made squeamish.”—School Library Journal

Booklist

“This thoroughly researched introduction to human microbes . . . leaves no stone unturned. . . . [T]his comprehensive volume makes for a valuable classroom resource.”—Booklist

Kirkus Reviews

“Although the topic is complex, this overview is presented clearly and without oversimplification. . . . This important topic is worthy of attention, and . . . this will serve middle and high school readers well.”—Kirkus Reviews