The Germ Academy vs the Soap Squad

Team L&M

Former American football player and broadcaster Jimmy Johnson once said: The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra. That little extra is what you find in The Germ Academy (HarperCollins Children’s Books; Rs 299). Author Rea Malhotra Mukhtyar has woven a simple but forceful storyline to educate kids on the importance of keeping clean to fight off the Coronavirus. She has created various characters to drives home her point, turning an ordinary tale into an extraordinary one. Rea is said to share a love-hate relationship with blank sheets of paper. And like most grownups, juggles many responsibilities, such as being an English and Drama teacher, a freelance writer, actor and voiceover artiste.

Full marks to illustrator Shahena Zaveri for the brilliantly colourful and soothing canvas for kids. Though the illustrations are unconventional, they attract you, be it the baddest of the baddies, Covie or any of the members of The Soap Squad (Han D’wash, Mr Foam, Grandma Gel, Lady Loofah and Senor Soap Dish). Shahena, I’m informed, graduated with a BFA in illustration and now runs Zacara, a studio that creates graphic design, customised illustrations and stationery.

While The Soap Squad is all set to ward off any new challenge The Germ Academy is ready to throw their way, the big question is whether you are?

A must pick if there are kids at home.