HURRICANES

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Simon, Seymour. 2007. HURRICANES. New York: Harper Collins. ISBN 0061170712.

PLOT SUMMARY

Sometimes called hurricanes, typhoons, or cyclones depending on where they form, these tropical storms cause millions of dollars worth of damage and claim many lives each year.  Simon defines hurricanes, describes how they form and the devastation they cause.  He includes photographs and satellite images as he describes the different categories of hurricanes and past hurricanes that have hit the U.S.  He ends the book by explaining how forecasters can predict these ferocious storms, and how to best prepare for one.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Simon’s photographic essay is written in a narrative like style that is easy to read.  The lack of subtitles or an index makes it difficult to flip through the book quickly to find specific facts.  However the photographs correspond to the text being presented and may serve as a guide.  Simon includes photographs of the devastation after a hurricane as well as satellite pictures of the storms.  Readers will also learn about past hurricanes as Simon describes the Saffir-Simpson scale and hurricanes from each category.  He presents the information in short paragraphs with a corresponding picture.  Perhaps the most valuable information presented is how forecasters can now predict these storms and how to safely evacuate when encouraged to or to protect oneself from the devastation.  Weather enthusiasts will not be disappointed by Simon’s straightforward text.

REVIEW EXERPTS

School Library Journal (May 01, 2008)- “This is a typical Simon effort, with readable text and excellent photos.”

Booklist (August 01, 2003)- “Pairing a simply phrased narrative with arresting, eye-catching color photos, Simon explains what hurricanes are and imparts a vivid sense of their destructive potential.”

 CONNECTIONS

• Include in a author study with some of Simon’s other books on natural disaster including:  Tornadoes ISBN: 0064437914 or Earthquakes ISBN:  0060877154
• Explore FEMA’s website for kids devoted to hurricanes which has more information including photographs and pet heroes saved during hurricanes:  http://www.fema.gov/kids/hurr.htm
• Have students write a disaster plan to prepare for a hurricane