Katie Laird – författare

This is the moment you’ve been waiting for ever since you laid your eyes on that letter at your front door. The honour! You’ve been selected above thousands of other applicants to get this position. A chance to experience more out of life; a chance to make a difference for everyone; a chance to be part of the team combatting antibiotic resistance. Today will be your first day as a trainee agent in the Anti-Bio Squad.The human body is under attack from evil germ villains and, using their henchmen, they are trying to plague everyone with their illnesses; varying from the common cold to more serious bacterial infections. They must be stopped. It’s up to the Anti-Bio Squad to save the day and you’re going to help them.When a boy comes down with some mysterious symptoms, it’s up to you to find the clues, catch the right criminal, fend off the bacteria, and prevent them from becoming resistant to all of your weapons (antibiotics). Along the way you will be helped by friends: Agent Max, his dynamic dog, team-mate Georgie, and The D.O.C. However, it’s you who decides what path this investigation follows. Do you have what it takes to succeed in the Fight Against Resistance and become a member of the Anti-Bio Squad?

The journey, from the toilet seat to the tummy (and out again!), explores the concepts of germs being invisible to the naked eye, multiplying and causing illness. By placing their warm hands on the thermochromic patches, the multiplying germs are revealed.The simple, bright and bold illustrations by Charlie Evans allow children to develop an understanding of science and health from a young age, while having fun in the process.Written by Katie Laird, Senior Lecturer in Microbiology in the School of Pharmacy, De Montfort University with Sarah Younie and John Williams, and illustrated by Charlie Evans in bright, appealing drawings, A Germ's Journey is both educational and entertaining. There is also an interactive website (www.agermsjourney.com) designed to reinforce the message and where children can play while learning the importance of hygiene.