September 1, 2022
PreS-Gr 2-Digitally created illustrations and a fact-filled commentary from a friendly volcano introduce readers to the wonders of eruptions, lava, and other things related to volcanology. Images include a diagram of the Earth's layers, a map showing the tectonic plates with arrows to indicate their movement, and an illustration of two plates bumping into each other. The type of volcanoes that form where the plates meet and those that form in hot spots where the plates drift apart are also covered, as well as the difference between lava and magma. Vocabulary terms (e.g., "pyroclastic flow," "asthenosphere") are defined within the diagrams and in the main text, while also appearing in the glossary. Illustrations capture scenes like the buildup of pressure before an eruption, as well as scientists at work observing lava flow. Back matter includes a list of famous volcanoes, eruptions that changed the world, a detailed diagram of a volcano, the glossary, suggestions for further reading, and a select bibliography. VERDICT A fact-filled primer on volcanoes that will answer young volcano enthusiasts' burning questions. Perfect for browsing, research, or classroom use.-Suzanne Costner
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October 1, 2022
Two personified volcanoes cheerfully explain how they are similar and different. This latest addition to Heos' Science Buddies series introduces volcanoes with a conversational first-person narrative directed at science-minded elementary school readers. First, a smiling gray volcano (perhaps Mount St. Helens or certainly a neighbor) reveals the underground secrets that lead it to EXPLODE! Starting with a pictorial representation of Earth's layers and a map of googly-eyed tectonic plates, the text and the colorful, expressive illustrations explain how plate movements lead to magma melting and lava erupting. Two red volcanoes join the conversation to present current theories about the flow of their lava. The narrators are reassuring, letting readers know that scientists often monitor volcanoes to warn people before dangerous eruptions happen. Puns add to the chatty effect. More straightforward information in the backmatter includes descriptions and pictures of famous volcanoes, including Mount St. Helens; volcanoes that changed the course of history; and a cross section of a typical cone-shaped volcano. Humans shown include a dark-skinned adult and child enjoying the natural world and a diverse group of volcano scientists observing an eruption. Though not as detailed as other books on the topics, this title's effective explanation of two distinct types of volcanic formation makes it a welcome addition, perhaps as a companion to Susan Rusch's Volcano Rising (2013), illustrated by Susan Swan. (This book was reviewed digitally.) Not quite overflowing with information when compared with other books on the subject but simple and engaging. (glossary, further reading, bibliography) (Informational picture book. 6-9)
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November 1, 2022
Grades K-2 "I guess you could say that there is a lot to lava about volcanoes!" In the same vein (so to speak) as their I'm a Virus! (2022), Heos lets chatty volcanoes of various types fill readers in on how and where they form, pyroclastic flows, and related topics, while Ciccotello adds faces or googly eyes to cartoon views of tectonic plates and volcanic slopes. The flow of information continues in annotated galleries of select examples, active and otherwise, from Vesuvius to the Yellowstone Supervolcano, all with reassuring status notes, followed by a labeled cross section of a generic volcano, and separate adult and audience-appropriate bibliographies. Readers after vicarious thrills or a hands-on experience will find DK's poptastic 3-D Look Inside Volcano (2011) more to their liking, but though there are nods to the destructive power of past volcanic eruptions and explosions here, the lighthearted overall tone will soothe anxiety-prone younger audiences.
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