From Library Journal Grade 4-7-Using a survey approach, Halley describes some of the world's worst disasters and forecasts potential catastrophes. The first two sections introduce "Natural Disasters" and "Man-Made Disasters." Each one has a world map showing where and when the events occurred, followed by a series of two-page illustrated spreads that describe specific events. Disasters as diverse as the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in A.D. 79, the London Bridge fire in 1212, and the explosion at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant in 1986 are included. The third section centers on "Medical threats," global warming, and overpopulation. All entries are illustrated with attractive, brightly colored photographs, charts, drawings, and maps. The book is a competent but limited introduction to the topic. Readers seeking more in-depth information might try the "When Disaster Strikes" series (21st Century).
