Going to the Hospital

Usborne First Experiences

by Stephen Cartwright (Illustrator), Michelle Bates (Editor)

Ben Bell is in the hospital for an operation, where the nurses take care of him, he meets his surgeon, is given an anaesthetic to make him sleepy, and, after the surgery, is visited by his family.

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens, Bodies

16 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 1987

About the author

Stephen Cartwright was a British children's book illustrator who illustrated more than 150 books which sold millions of copies worldwide. His illustrations are noted for being instantly recognizable and usually depicting open-faced, innocent-looking children and animals. Throughout his 27 years of book illustration, he was closely associated with Usborne Publishing.
He died Feb. 12, 2004 in London.

Reviews

[Rose Rosetree · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the important jobs of picture books is to give children words and ideas about life experiences.

"Going to the Hospital" succeeds at that task. This title is part of a series devoted to this essential task of introducing the toddler to life!

Admittedly, I'm a bit disappointed that "Going to the Hospital" doesn't come with a free ambulance ride soon as you open the covers. Perhaps including an adventure where readers receive a quick tour of a hospital cafeteria, and then a direct return home... perhaps with a lollipop.

But let's get serious, because this is a serious book. Serious, if almost grimly cheerful.

The winning illustrations are loaded with detail. Altogether the mood is upbeat. Goodreaders, I can assure you that the ending is happy. (Though no spoilers from me, no no!)

FIVE STARS to author Anne Civardi and illustrator Stephen Cartwright.

[Becky B · Rating 3 out of 5]

A little boy needs to have a surgery on his ear, and readers get to see what it is like for him to go to the hospital, get ready for surgery, and come out of surgery.

This is a super short story, but does a decent job of preparing kids for a hospital stay (though some may be disappointed or surprised if they aren't in a large room with multiple kids like the boy is). There's absolutely no pictures or details about the surgery. He is shown receiving some gas and next picture he has a bandage on his ear and is hungry.

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ben's ear is hurting so they take a visit to the doctor. He has to have surgery.

This is a great read for any child preparing for surgery. It's realistic with the steps that are taken without being scary.

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is excellent. This book has two separate versions which may be read independently or as a longer story. The version at the top of the page is a simple sentence version of the book and is approximately a first grade reading level. The version at the bottom of the page is a more complicated and detailed version of the book and is approximately a second or third grade reading level. A great way to read this book to a baby or toddler is to read only the top line. As the child gets older, read the bottom line as well. When the child starts to read, have them read the top line and you the bottom line. This will give them a great sense of accomplishment which is so important for success in reading. This is a book that can grow with your child. Don't forget to look for the duck on each page. Purchase this book at my Independent Consultant Website: www.ubah.com/s2995

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fantastic book for first experiences my daughter especially liked finding the duck on every page! It would really help children with coping with going to hospital.

[Ayşe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Güzel kitap. Tavsiye ederim:)