The Bacteria Book: questions to ask and activities to try
Bacteria, viruses and fungi are everywhere. The Bacteria Book is a fun, award-shortlisted introduction to microbes by Steve Mould.
What age is it for? The Bacteria Book is best for ages 7–10. Good for: Gross germs, vile viruses and funky fungi.
The Bacteria Book (Steve Mould)
- Age
- 7-10
- Best for
- Gross germs, vile viruses and funky fungi
Read a spread at a time. Talk about good and bad germs, and why we wash our hands.
What it helps with
- Microbes and germs
- Hygiene
- How the body fights illness
- Science vocabulary
Comprehension and discussion questions
Pick two or three, not all of them. “I don’t know” is a fine answer, and you can always come back to it another day.
- “What are bacteria?”
- “What are viruses?”
- “Are all germs bad?”
- “Which microbes help us?”
- “Why do we wash our hands?”
- “Which fact was grossest?”
5-minute activities to try together
Glitter germs
Put glitter on hands and see how far 'germs' spread.
Mould watch
Watch bread go mouldy in a sealed bag (don't open it!).
Free printables: The Bacteria Book worksheet and activity pack
This book’s one-page worksheet with the questions and activities above, plus our activity pack: printable scenario cards, three 5-minute activities and a “What could I try?” page for practising everyday skills together. Enter your email and download them straight away.
Free. We’ll only email you if you tick the box.
If your child liked this, try
Nano: The Spectacular Science of the Very (Very) Small (Jess Wade and Melissa Castrillón)
- Best for
- The science of atoms and tiny things
- Age
- 5-9
A Day in the Life of a Poo, a Gnu and You (Mike Barfield and Jess Bradley)
- Best for
- A day in the life of everything
- Age
- 6-10
World-Whizzing Facts (Emily Grossman and Alice Bowsher)
- Best for
- Awesome Earth questions answered
- Age
- 7-10
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 10 October 2026
Growing Wise offers educational ideas for parents and carers. It is not a substitute for professional medical, developmental or mental-health advice. As an Amazon Associate, Growing Wise earns from qualifying purchases.