If you are looking for a lively educational book for all the kids in your life, check out A Hero Answers 9-1-1 by Steve F. Schubert. It’s career day in Mr. Best’s class and the bright-eyed students meet Chris, a Sheriff’s Office dispatcher. Chris has plenty of exciting information to share with the inquisitive students about the function of 9-1-1 and what to expect when making use of this lifesaving emergency service. With a round of spirited questions from Thomas, Monica, Christa and others, dispatcher Chris helps the kids learn when they should call 9-1-1, what information they’ll need for the dispatcher that answers the phone, and what to expect from emergency personnel when they arrive. Chris even helps the students judge between a real emergency and a situation that would not be appropriate for a 9-1-1 call. And just in case the kids mistakenly make an emergency call, the dispatcher dispels their worries and gives instructions for handling those accidental moments, too. Before the story concludes, readers are further treated to a very cool backstage look at what a dispatch center looks like on the inside, helping demystify the process of making that intimidating phone call in an emergency.
Even as an adult who has made use of 9-1-1 in the past, I learned a thing or two about this critical community service in the enlightening picture book, A Hero Answers 9-1-1! The vibrant colors, rhyming text, energetic faces, and realistic scenes will strike a fun and familiar chord with children. Covering such a sensible and crucial topic, the text lends itself well to fluid conversations with children as it’s read aloud. Practical in every regard, the author encourages role playing and practice sessions to help kids deal with unexpected situations they may encounter. Referring to the heroic dispatchers as the calm in the storm is well illustrated and clearly demonstrated by smiling faces, sound advice, and just enough whimsy to keep the story light. Even though distressing situations are depicted, such as a house fire and a medical emergency, the prevailing message is positive and reassuring, making for an instructive picture book that will keep little ones engaged and entertained while the important ideas are anchored in their hearts and minds. Don’t leave your loved ones unprepared for an emergency; be sure to read and share the upbeat gem, A Hero Answers 9-1-1!
