The world starts shaking. Cups and plates rattle in cupboards. Books fall off of shelves. It’s an earthquake! These natural disasters do billions of dollars worth of damage every year. But scientists still cannot predict them. This low-level text introduces how earthquakes form, the damage they cause, and how their damage can be prevented. Special features such as a map, a formation diagram, and a Richter scale chart introduce the key concepts of these powerful disasters to young readers.
Although its the second smallest continent on Earth, Europe has the third largest population. Rich in history, literature, and art, European culture has been a far-reaching influence all over the globe. Give students the opportunity to discover how Europe stands out in this fascinating title!
Icy winds whip snow into whiteout conditions. It’s a blizzard! These extreme winter storms can turn deadly if you’re not prepared. Bundle up and learn how to get ready for a blizzard and what to do if you get caught in one in this book for reluctant readers.
South Sudan’s recent beginnings stem from people seeking freedom and peace. As the nation grows, the values of tribal strength and independence add to the natural wonder that spans across the savannas and swamplands. Readers will explore the people, customs, land, and much more in this title about South Sudan.
The word Croatoan carved onto a post and the letters “CRO” scratched onto a tree. What do these two clues reveal about Roanoke’s missing English colonists? Interested students can sort through possible answers in this read that begins as a history lesson and ends as an unsolved mystery.
Most people in Pripyat never expected the day to come when they’d have to flee for their lives. The Soviet Union boasted about the safety of the nuclear city. But in 1986, one of the town’s nuclear reactors exploded and released deadly radiation. This title explains the Chernobyl accident for curious readers.
The wild reputation of Bodie was unmatched in the Old West. The California gold-mining town attracted a rough crowd. Bodie had gamblers, drinkers, gunslingers, and robbers all after riches. This high-interest children’s title includes a wealth of information about the gold rush that once made Bodie a “get rich” destination.
The city in the clouds, Machu Picchu, has an air of mystery surrounding it. Historians know the site belonged to the Inca Empire, but they do not know much else. In this book, reluctant readers will explore possible reasons why Machu Picchu was first built and, in time, abandoned.
Craco’s historical happenings hint at a curse. The town faced a plague, then war, then earthquakes and landslides. In the end, the natural disasters dealt the final blow, causing Craco to physically collapse. In this book, young readers will discover a medieval town that eventually lost its uphill battle for survival.
Hashima, Japan’s sea walls give it the appearance of a ship lost at sea. This look is the reason for the Battleship Island nickname. In this title, reluctant readers will also see Battleship Island as a time capsule. Pieces from the past will point to the deserted island’s coal-mining boom time.
Considered the Holy Land for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, Israel is a sacred place that holds a rich history. This small country is filled to the brim with diverse cultures and varied landscapes. Readers will discover all that Israel has to offer in this exciting title.
Germany is famous for many things. Cars, art, and classical music are a few, but there is another shining star among them. It’s the wurst! Germany is the home of hundreds of types of sausages. This title will fulfill young readers’ hunger for Germany as it explores the culture, landscape, and much more!
It is no wonder this island of green celebrates its nation on the greenest of all holidays, St. Patrick’s Day! Every March 17, the people of Ireland kick off a three-day celebration to honor their country and their patron saint. Ireland’s many celebrations, people, landscapes, and more are highlighted in this striking book.
For over a quarter century, Germany stood as a country divided. A huge concrete barrier known as the Berlin Wall physically divided the capital of Berlin. When the wall came down in 1989, Germany was reborn. Readers will learn what daily life is like today for the innovative and industrious people of Germany. Blastoff! Series
Take a trip to the mountains of Southeast Asia and discover the culture of Laos! This diverse country is home to many ethnic groups and more than 80 languages. Students will learn about Lao food, rare animals, and favorite traditions in this informative book.
Each year, thousands of animals thunder across Tanzania’s vast Serengeti Plain during their migration. Nearby, the tallest freestanding mountain in the world towers over the country. Discover what other wonders this East African nation holds in this fact-filled title for students.
Being stranded on a desert island is a classic survival situation of countless books, movies, and cartoons. But would you know where to find water or how make fire if it happened to you? Young readers can learn these skills and more in this high-interest title of ultimate survival.
A hurricane warning was just issued! Hurricane dangers include more than just strong winds and rain. Are you prepared? Young readers learn how to be ready for when a storm hits and stay safe through floods and other possible dangers after the all clear is called in this exciting title.
When the weather on a mountain turns quickly, an afternoon activity can turn into a matter of life or death. Don’t be caught unaware! Read about how to protect yourself from wild animals and thin air to survive until rescue groups find you in this exciting book for students.
Scientists estimate that about 500,000 detectable earthquakes shake the earth each year. But the majority of them go unnoticed, as most register at the bottom of the 8.0+ magnitude scale. In this hi-lo title, kids will learn how to react to the dangerous quakes that can be felt.
Tornadoes are the most violent storms on Earth! Their twisting winds flatten houses and uproot trees in minutes. Young readers find out how to tell if a tornado is on its way, where to go, and how to stay safe in this high-interest title.
Lying along the sparkling waters of the Adriatic Sea is the hidden gem of Croatia. From its craggy coast and cascading waterfalls to its delicate lace-making and fast-paced kolo dance, this country is full of natural and cultural beauty. Learn how Croatia’s varied history has shaped it into the independent nation it is today in this title for eager students.
The force of an avalanche coming down a mountain is powerful. It can create winds strong enough to smash houses. Some avalanches can reach speeds of 200 miles per hour! In this book, young readers will discover how to predict sliding snow, ice, and rock before it buries them.
On the grassy Pampas of Uruguay, gauchos carry on a history of the South American cowboy. But these rugged ranchers are just one part of the country’s rich culture. In this title, young learners can read about the people, animals, and daily life of this small yet proud nation.
A wrong turn on a hike can quickly become a dangerous situation. Do you know what to do if a cougar is following you, or what berries are safe to eat? Sharpen your wilderness survival skills and become prepared for anything with this book for young readers.