We follow Alex and Kate through the whole process of having tests, seeing the children's ward, being admitted, and having minor operations - Alex for grommets in his ears and Kate for a tonsillectomy. Along the way they meet Mags, the play specialist, Julia, a nurse, and various children who are in hospital for different reasons. Lots of equipment is shown, and there is much reassuring evidence of toys and activity. Mums (and sometimes dads) stay with the children. The flat, busy illustrations are sometimes jolly to the point of being over-the-top - particularly the faces - but the information is so detailed that the book as a whole will be very useful on children's wards and at home as preparation for a stay in hospital.