Geysers

Children's Literature

Geysers by Boekhoff and Kallen is part of the "Wonders of the World" series, and explains the formation and eruption processes of geysers. One major flaw is that the book's photos are often poorly placed within the text. Also, the text itself is very wordy, which could confuse many readers. For example, at one point the authors go into a long, detailed explanation about underwater geysers. The related picture is of a cave formation that is "similar" to what they were explaining (even though cave formations were never mentioned in the text). Also, the text only talks about land geysers in Yellowstone National Park. The authors mention other geysers around the world, but do not give more information other than they exist. Another book entitled Geysers: When Earth Roars by Roy A. Gallant gives a more global portrayal of geysers and how they affect not only the world but the communities that are in geyser field areas. Gallant's book also gives more sources at the end for readers who need to find more information. Boekhoff and Kallen's book does give a lot of information for young readers; however, other books might prove to be a better choice. 2003, KidHaven Press,
— Joella Peterson

School Library Journal

Gr 4-6-This book discusses the making of geysers, differences between those on land and those in the ocean, and why scientists study them. The text is dry and not always clear; readers will need some background knowledge or help to understand the information. The short glossary is unnecessary as the words are already defined in context. Captioned, color photos and a few maps dot the pages, but there are no illustrations to help explain such concepts as the different colors of mud pots. Both Roy A. Gallant's Geysers (Watts, 1997) and Larry Dane Brimner's Geysers (Children's, 2000) do a great job of explaining this natural phenomenon in words and pictures.-Sandra Welzenbach, Villarreal Elementary School, San Antonio, TX Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information.