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REVIEW FROM SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

MCCOLLUM, Sean. Volcanic Eruptions, Earthquakes, and Tsunamis. 80p. (Scientific American Series). charts. diags. maps. photos. reprods. bibliog. further reading. glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. Chelsea House. 2007. PLB $30. ISBN 978-0-7910-9047-3. LC 2007017740.

Gr 5–7—Following an introduction that focuses on the formation of a volcano off the coast of Iceland in 1963 and presents the principles of seismology, geology, and the structure of the Earth, individual chapters on volcanoes, earthquakes, and tsunamis describe these phenomena, how they happen, and their characteristics. Subsequent passages discuss precautionary changes in building codes and bridge construction and efforts at prediction. Boxed off areas present supplementary information, such as myths, significant scientists, the future of the Earth, tables of the deadliest events, first-person accounts, historical notes, and tables of data. The workmanlike writing is clear, with glossary terms highlighted in the text. Major events, such as Mount St. Helens, the 2004 tsunami, and the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, are used as examples, while good color diagrams and photos effectively illustrate ideas presented. Although these topics are readily available in many individual books, McCollum's volume is noteworthy for conveniently bringing them together in one title and highlighting their interrelatedness.
—Jeffrey A. French, formerly at Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library, Willowick, OH