The Gas We Pass: The Story of Farts

Smells like a classic to me! (10/13/2010) Reviewer: Michael "When an elephant farts, the farts are really big." How can you resist a book with an opening line like that? "The Gas We Pass: The Story of Farts" reveals this and many more facts about a basic bodily function. Written by Shinta Cho and translated into English by Amanda Mayer Stinchecum, this is one of those great children's books that doubles as a work of delightful humor for adults. This book is not only humorous, but also educational. A diagram of the digestive system and other visual aids help to drive home the science of farts. The book is written in a matter-of-fact, totally nonjudgmental tone. The text is supplemented by drawings that have a quirky charm to them. I suppose that some self-appointed watchdogs of "cultural purity" will whine and pout about a book that celebrates the fart as a joyous, and even noble, part of life. But for the rest of us, "The Gas We Pass" is a treasure.