Dr. Atul N. Shah, also known as “The Amazing Allergist,” has written a practical and thoughtful guide to empowering children who live with allergies. Child-friendly illustrations by Lowell Hildebrandt will encourage helpful and honest discussion, and families dealing with this issue will be delighted to add this book to their home libraries.
Dr. Shah believes in treating the whole child. Because he respects and authentically likes children, he understands that feelings of fear and frustration can be as difficult to deal with as an endlessly running nose. The first part of Allergies, and Awesome You: Believe You Can Get There Too! is written in story form: a little boy named Jack explains to his good friend and soccer teammate Samantha everything he did to identify and treat his allergies, in the hope that she will find help just as he did.
Part two of the book outlines the facts surrounding allergies and answers practical questions. It includes breathing exercises and affirmations, as well as frequently asked questions and a list of additional allergy resources. He clearly presents the science of allergies as well as useful information about symptoms, treatments, medications and options for drug-free care. One warning: this section of the book is written for both parents and children and, however practical, this sudden change to a dual audience is jarring.
Even so, Dr. Shah writes with authority and warm good humor about the challenges children with allergies face, while reassuring kids that an allergy-free life is possible. With gentle confidence, he invites kids to take control of their own health by paying attention to their bodies and needs. Wisely, the author makes a point of reminding his readers that all children and families are unique, and a book can’t replace a face-to-face visit with a physician.
