Earthquakes

Children's Literature

Earthquakes have been puzzling scientists for decades. Not only are they difficult to predict, but they are also tough to pinpoint. This text provides information about the nature of earthquakes, why and where they occur, and how to measure seismic waves and an earthquake's intensity and magnitude. The author lists the 20th century's most powerful earthquakes, describes the destruction left behind after some of the world's most famous earthquakes, discusses what happens when earthquakes trigger tsunamis, introduces readers to the San Andreas Fault, and offers suggestions on how to stay safe when earthquakes hit. This resource contains fascinating facts, historical information, updated statistics, colorful photographs, maps, charts, illustrations, a list of related Internet sites, and a glossary. This book offers an informative introduction to these earthshaking geological events. Series "Nature's Fury" 1999, Abdo Publishing Company, Ages 8 to 12, $19.93. Reviewer: Debra Briatico

Library Journal

Gr 4-6-Meister first presents the history of these extreme forces of nature, covering famous recent occurrences before moving on to how these disasters are predicted as well as suggestions on how to stay safe. She also distinguishes between earthquakes and tsunamis; hurricanes, cyclones, and typhoons; and the different types of volcanoes. Plenty of colorful photos and clearly labeled charts that explain more complex concepts are featured in all three selections. While this series offers little new information, Meister's conversational flow is more pleasing than the brief bullets of text found in Susanna Van Rose's Volcano and Earthquake (Knopf, 1992), though these books have fewer illustrations.-Blair Christolon, Prince William Public Library System, Manassas, VA Copyright 1999 Cahners Business Information.