Volcanoes

Children's Literature

Did you know that the oldest volcanic rocks in the world are found in Greenland and Canada or that the tallest active geyser in the world is found in Yellowstone National Park? These and other facts are included in this helpful resource about the world's volcanoes. First, the author defines what volcanoes are, what makes them erupt, and where they are found. Then, different types of volcanoes are discussed as well as how they are formed. The elementary school reader will be fascinated to learn that a volcano can be productive as well as destructive. Each spread features two relevant color photographs, diagrams, or drawings along with captioned explanations. The designer makes very good use of the white space on the page as the text is very easy to read and the ratio of illustrations to text is excellent. The information is presented in an easy-to-read format and the book includes many useful text features such as a glossary, index, table of contents, and list of sources for additional information on volcanoes. This title is part of the series "Geography First." 2004, Blackbirch Press/The Gale Group, Ages 6 to 10.
—Nancy T. Braverman