The Science of Earthquakes

Gr 4–6—This series keeps the science introductory but provides plenty of real-life examples of hurricanes, avalanches, etc., many from the last decade and some as recent as summer 2012. Four chapters in each title cover the science involved, the technology in use, effects of the disaster, and future outlook and preparedness. "Real-Life Science" sections use actual catastrophes to elucidate the science being covered. Quotes from victims and images of scientists and emergency and rescue workers in action offer the human side of the topics. Avalanches and Earthquakes include possible manmade triggers (however, fracking is not one of them), but climate change is not mentioned in any of the volumes. Bright background colors, color photos with captions, and a variety of insets provide further information and examples. The maps are too narrow in focus, and more labeled diagrams and tables would aid comprehension. Avalanches and Hurricanes have minor problems with clarity.