The Science of a Shipwreck

Gr 4–7—Filled with fascinating facts and photos, these information-packed volumes take on familiar and little-known catastrophes. While the details of these natural and human-made disasters will intrigue readers, the true focus of the books is how scientists employ the scientific method to improve past ideas and theories and potentially avoid future tragedies. Charts, diagrams, and illustrations will help readers better understand the scientific concepts presented, and thought-provoking sidebars pose questions for further contemplation and investigation. The inclusion of the "Top 5" at the end of each volume provides some sobering statistics; however, the criteria for these assertions are unclear. For the most part, the authors are experts in their respective fields, giving the text greater credibility, but the lack of citations is noticeable and troubling. Solid offerings, despite these flaws.