Aparna Singhal, M.D., believes early exposure to medicine and radiology is a powerful way to spark curiosity and encourage future careers in STEM and health care. Aparna Singhal, M.D., associate professor in the neuroradiology imaging section in the University of Alabama at Birmingham Department of Radiology and a mom of three, recently stepped beyond her role as a radiologist to embrace a new title — author. Inspired by a desire to share her work with her own children, she wrote a one-of-a-kind children’s book introducing young readers to the world of radiology, “ABCs of Radiology for Kids.”
“I envisioned writing a children’s book on radiology when I wanted to tell my kids about our fascinating field and could not find the right kind of book,” Singhal said. “I also thought such a book could be a long-term way to address a lack of knowledge about our field in general. Radiology has so much that is unique to medicine that can be taught to kids to intrigue them about radiology, medicine, and even just science/STEM in general, that I thought it would be great to have a book like that.”
With a strong interest in inspiring children, especially girls, Singhal believes early exposure to medicine and radiology is a powerful way to spark curiosity and encourage future careers in STEM and health care.
“I have always been interested in creative expressions, be it through music or arts or teaching and in self-learning/growth, and this idea even though completely out of my comfort zone gave me a good way to align my passions and roles of being a radiologist, a mom, a teacher and expressing my creativity,” Singhal said.
The book includes aspects relevant to a child undergoing imaging or visiting a radiology department for the first time and is overall designed to both educate and engage. Singhal structured it in an ABC format so it could appeal to a wide age range. Younger children can enjoy the alphabet-based structure, while older readers will appreciate the layered details and insights that nurture deeper interest.
“ABCs of Radiology for Kids" includes aspects relevant to a child undergoing imaging or visiting a radiology department for the first time and is overall designed to both educate and engage.“If even one person reading the book can learn one new thing about radiology, be intrigued by radiology, medicine or science in general, or is encouraged to pick up a project of their own, the book would have served its purpose,” Singhal said.
This is not Singhal’s first time working on a book. She previously supported one of her own children in publishing a short storybook for an elementary school project.
“Getting back to drawing and seeing the pictures and the text come together was a lot of fun for me,” Singhal said. “We had to be creative and perseverant to get her book published as this was a completely new process with challenges, which initially seemed insurmountable. Once her book was done, I had more clarity about the process.”
Singhal describes the new children’s book as a true family project, one that would not have been possible without her loved ones’ encouragement.
“I credit the encouragement from my family, including my husband, kids and brother, who inspired me to finish the project,” Singhal said.
Upon completion of her book, she has several takeaways to share with those interested in writing their own books or doing something out of their comfort zone.
“My one takeaway from the whole process is that, if you stay true to yourself and persevere, new and unexpected paths can open which can be both fun and fulfilling,” Singhal said. “Start small, and break it into steps. Don’t let fear or perfectionism hold you back; not trying is the only real failure. Meaningful projects often come from turning problems into opportunities and aligning with your strengths and values. The most fulfilling works help you grow, serve others and leave a lasting impact.”