Survival Scout: ­Tsunami

Gr 3-6–This book takes readers through Scout’s very adventurous summer along the Pacific Ocean in Alaska. Scout and sidekick skunk know just what to do when they experience an earthquake followed by a tsunami warning and finally, the tsunami itself. The book provides a very thorough look at the types, history, causes, and effects of tsunamis. The explanations are clear and include charts and data to help readers understand. The conversational style and comic relief from the skunk sidekick will entertain readers when the scientific information gets overwhelming. The illustrations explain scientific innovations, like seismographs, and simple maps add to the reader’s understanding. Also very helpful are the survival tips and advice for safety preparedness in the event of a disaster. Educators looking for lessons about natural disasters and plate tectonics will find this book very useful. Meant to aid in preparing for emergencies, the book accomplishes that goal, but may also leave some readers frightened; students may need reassurance about the likelihood and frequency of such disasters. The occasional German phrases might also be confusing to some. Serious earth scientists will appreciate the detailed diagrams and data.