Review by Booklist Review
Most people never consider what is happening in the ground beneath their feet, but in reality there is a tremendous amount of science going on deep in the earth. Twenty-five hands-on experiments focus on the movement of tectonic plates, the formation of volcanoes, potential seismic energy, and the very real threat of earthquakes. Readers can generate potential energy, make their own edible volcano model, or chart fault lines around the globe. Essential questions introduce each chapter and set a contextual purpose for reading. Real-life events, relevant terms, and fun facts accompany each project, while very detailed scientific explanations are offered to guide budding scientists' observations. Scannable QR codes and keyword search suggestions offer easy access to electronic primary sources about the scientists and discoveries that have added to the field of seismography. This multidisciplinary STEM resource appeals to multiple modalities and learning styles and covers more obscure topics in physical geography and science.--Anderson, Erin Copyright 2017 Booklist
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
Reilly provides a detailed examination of the movements of tectonic plates, and the effects of those movements, in this addition to the Built It Yourself series. Throughout, Reilly poses relevant questions ("Are there any benefits to earthquakes? Do they serve a valuable purpose for our planet?"), discusses scientists' hypotheses about Earth, and invites readers to get involved via 25 activities, which include cooking molten rock candy, making a cardboard box seismograph, and creating a Jackson Pollack-style painting of an erupting volcano. Thompson's cartoon spot illustrations break up the book's substantial text. It's a solid starting point for readers interested in Earth's geology. Ages 9-12. (Jan.) © Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.
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Review by School Library Journal Review
Gr 4-7-Reilly uses the theory of plate tectonics to explain earthquakes, volcanoes, and more in this comprehensive look at earth science. Each chapter concludes with several hands-on activities to encourage understanding of the concepts discussed. They vary in quality (some are recycled from the author's 2012 Natural Disasters: Investigate Earth's Most Destructive Forces with 25 Projects), but they are effective at encouraging readers to come up with their own ideas and solutions. "Words To Know" are defined in sidebars on each page. One standout feature is the primary source boxes, which use QR codes to link to videos, maps, and documents. Reassuringly, the author has provided a list of links for those without QR code capabilities, and search terms are suggested in case of broken links. The volume covers a lot of ground in a conversational tone and avoids sounding dry or textbooklike. One drawback is that at times there are no visuals when they would be helpful, and most of the images are simplistic drawings. VERDICT A solid addition to earth science collections or where the series is popular.-Allison McLean, Elkhart Public Library, IN © Copyright 2017. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
