Earthquake Science

Written for young children of ages between eight and fourteen, Earthquake Science is part of author Judith Hubbard’s eBook science series for children of that age range. The book is very informative, filled with good, simple information young readers can easily understand. Though the writing is simple, clear, and good, it’s not a very exciting, colorful reading material that would hold kids’ attention well. Hubbard organized her material well into twelve chapters, starting with an easy explanation of earthquakes and continuing into more technical information about the mechanism, science, and measurement of earthquakes. She has many very good (though rather small) illustrations to help readers visualize concepts and many good descriptions through everyday life examples that young readers could relate to. Hubbard spends considerable time with safety during earthquakes as well as preparedness. There is a full, long chapter called “Be Prepared” with good information and a long list of emergency supplies needed when an earthquake strikes. She urges readers to look up seven locations on maps where earthquakes have occurred. A chapter adds twelve questions to quiz readers on the knowledge they’ve gained and activities they can do related to earthquakes, even building their own seismometer.