Volcanoes (Focus on Earth Science)

What causes a volcano to erupt? How do scientists study volcanoes? Where have the most destructive eruptions occurred? Learn the answers to these questions and more in this media enhanced book.

Few natural phenomena conjure awe the way a volcano does, and this entry in the Earth Science series intelligently mixes history, science, geography, careers, and even myths. One of its strongest attributes is how it reiterates and backs up information without coming off as redundant. For example, several paragraphs of text about tectonic plates is bolstered by a wonderful color-coded map of the segmented crust beneath the earth’s surface. Though the book never delves tremendously deep, it’s an ideal starting point for student researchers with its breakdown of different types of volcanoes, a large map of the planet’s active volcanoes, an impressive time line of notable eruptions, and details on life as a volcanologist. “Eco Notes” provide more esoteric bits, like the 1500 BC eruption that might have led to the Atlantis legend. As part of the publisher’s new AV2 imprint, Volcanoes’ code number allows access to a page-by-page online digital supplement featuring video embeds from the likes of National Geographic, fill-in-the-blank activities, links to various .gov and .org sites, image slide shows, and much more. Grades 3-5. --Daniel Kraus