Volcanoes

Gr 4-6-Bunce provides information about subduction, rift, and hot-spot volcanoes. Different volcanic landforms are illustrated and explained as well as kinds of eruptions and disaster relief efforts. Hazards of volcanoes are outlined in a chart and described in the text. Cutaway drawings; sharp, full-color photographs; and maps further enhance the presentation. A brief list of major eruptions is also included. Maslin's book explains the causes, measurement, and hazards of both earthquakes and tsunamis. Concise drawings illustrate concepts, and photographs and graphs expand on the basic information. Charts are used to explain the Richter and modified Mercalli scales. Maps illustrate tectonic plates, subduction zones, and the "Ring of Fire." Lessons learned from various quakes are also presented in boxed text. Rescue techniques and cost of earthquakes, both monetary and in lives lost, are given. Although eight deadly earthquakes are listed, no fuller list appears. This text both updates and expands on the information presented in Joyce Pope's Earthquakes (Copper Beech, 1998). Boxed quotes from eyewitnesses and newspaper and news-service sources enhance the information in both books. Attractive, well-organized, and current titles that are suitable both for reports and browsing.-Kathryn Kosiorek, Cuyahoga County Public Library, Brooklyn, OH (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

These well-written books on natural disasters present detailed, rather advanced scientific explanations for powerful meteorological and geological events. Case studies of major natural disasters in the past focus on "lessons learned" rather than death or destruction. Well-reproduced color photos, clear graphics, interesting facts, and eyewitness accounts greatly enhance the text without distracting from the science. Bib., glos., ind. (c) Copyright 2010. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.