Environmental Science & Ecosystems, Fire Fighting & Rescue, Forests & Trees

Wildfires

Name: Wildfires
Author: Seymour Simon
ISBN: 9780688175306

by Seymour Simon

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Overview

Wildfires

A raging wildfire can be a major disaster, costing lives and destroying homes. But fires in nature can help as well as harm, clearing forests of dead trees and allowing young plants to grow. Breathtaking photos highlight this surprising look at fire's part in maintaining the balance of nature.

About the Author, Seymour Simon

Seymour Simon has been called "the dean of the [children's science book] field" by the New York Times. He has written more than 250 books for young readers and has received the American Association for the Advancement of Science/Subaru Lifetime Achievement Award for his lasting contribution to children's science literature, the Science Books & Films Key Award for Excellence in Science Books, the Empire State Award for excellence in literature for young people, and the EducationalPaperback Association Jeremiah Ludington Award. He and his wife, Liz, live in Great Neck, New York. You can visit him online at www.seymoursimon.com, where you can read "Seymour Science Blog," participate in "Writing Wednesday," and download a free four-page teacher guide to accompany this book, putting it in context with Common Core objectives. Many of Seymour's award-winning books are also available as ebooks.

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Editorials

Children's Literature

This summer has been the worst fire season in fifty years according to many sources. What an appropriate time to read this book with your child to help understand the power of wildfires. Basic information about the elements that fires need to expand themselves is explained. The past history of forest fire prevention and its relation to the current deadly situation, give the reader a better understanding of what has happened in the West. The Yellowstone National Park fire of 1988, is used as an example of major fires that were going to be left to burn themselves out but turned out to be so dangerous that massive fire fighting efforts were made to try and contain them. The amazing power of forest fires is quite astonishing. But equally amazing is the recovery that takes place almost immediately in a burned area. The insects are at work when the ground is still warm from the fire. Seeds in pinecones are often opened up by the scorching heat of the fire and can finally sprout, thus creating the start of the new forest. Full-page photos enhance the book. 2000 (orig. 1996), HarperCollins Publishers, Ages 7 to 12, $6.95. Reviewer: Barbara Youngblood