A Day in the Life of a Poo, a Gnu, and You
#1 of 2 in A day without a smile is a day wasted Series
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What’s inside...
This award-winning illustrated non-fiction title invites readers to follow the hour-by-hour adventures of everything from a gnu on the African savannah, to the bacteria on your teeth, to the food working its way through your gut. Packed with comic-strip panels, fact boxes, and playful narration, the book turns complicated biology and ecology into laugh-out-loud mini-stories that track a typical day in many living (and not-so-living) things’ lives. Author Mike Barfield and illustrator Jess Bradley blend clear science explanations with jokes, helping children see the hidden systems that keep bodies, animals, and ecosystems working all day long.
Character compass
You
Red Blood Cell
Gnu
Poo
Discussion points
What surprised you most about how your body works?
How do the bee and the gnu each help their ecosystem?
Which new word did you learn, and what does it mean?
Why is it important to keep our waterways clean?
Tip: Role play these questions
Re-create the digestion journey with a food diary for a day.
Visit a local park to observe pollinators like the book’s bee.
Draw your own 'day in the life' comic of a household pet.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Every organism plays a role in its ecosystem.
Explanation: The gnu, bee, and gut bacteria each affect bigger systems.
Real-World Application: Students can research local species and their roles.
Example Lesson: Healthy habits keep our bodies running smoothly.
Explanation: Scenes on brushing teeth and balanced diets reinforce care.
Real-World Application: Kids may adopt regular brushing and varied meals.
Example Lesson: Clean water and sanitation protect communities.
Explanation: Poo’s sewer adventure shows treatment plants at work.
Real-World Application: Families can discuss responsible flushing and recycling.
Example Lesson: Curiosity drives learning.
Explanation: Each comic starts with a question children might ask.
Real-World Application: Encourage kids to keep a question journal about nature.