Hurricanes by Seymour Simon

1. Bibliography
Simon, Seymour. 2007. HURRICANES. New York, NY: HarperCollins Publishers. ISBN 0061170712.

2. Plot Summary
This book clearly defines and explains what hurricanes are, when they occur, where they take place, how they occur, and the lasting impact of them on people, places, and things. To complement this factual information are real-life photos that illustrate the formation of hurricanes and the devastation that they leave behind.

3. Critical Analysis
     Given Seymour Simon's credentials as a noted children's science book author, the accuracy of this book is its major advantage. However, what the book may be lacking is a clear bibliography or list of sources cited to specify where the information in this book may have stemmed from. On the other hand, Simon succeeds in avoiding stereotypes in his language use in the book as well as in differentiating facts from theory. The illustrations in the book are a clear and truthful representation of the facts provided in the book.
     The organization of the book is equipped with a logical layout and a clear sequence. This sequence consists of the following concerning hurricanes: a basic introduction to what hurricanes are and the types that exist, how they form, some background history on past hurricanes, how hurricanes are broadcast, and what to do in a hurricane. The book seems to follow a pattern of providing more general than specific information, which is a key advantage in attracting its targeted audience--children in intermediate elementary grades (Grades 3-5). One of the best characteristics of the book is its inclusion of a glossary that defines specific terms related to hurricanes such as: atmosphere, mudslide, orbit, and storm surges.
     The print in the book is inviting and readable because the wording is presented in bold type and is evenly spaced. The style of the book's language may not be necessarily lively, but it is clear and interesting. However, it does not do much to reveal the author's passion or enthusiasm about the subject. Yet, it does use appropriate vocabulary. It provides useful information without talking down to the reader, especially, when it gives tips on what do in the event of a hurricane. The book is written in a way as to not overwhelm the reader with information; however, Simon probably could have written the book in a way that further encourages critical thinking among his targeted readers.

4. Review Excerpts
Kirkus Reviews-"Simon may have done more than any other living author to help us understand and appreciate the beauty of our planet and universe."
Booklist- "The lack of an index or further resources may hamper assignment-driven children, but like most of Simon's other work, this is unsurpassed for kindling interest in a scientific subject and communicating an understanding of its scope and significance."


5. Connections
     On Simon's website (www.seymoursimon.com), educators are allowed free membership that allows them to have access and download teacher guides and other resources to use in activities with children in relation to any of his books.
     One particularly interesting activity is one called the "Hurricane Hall of Fame." In this activity, children will use the Internet or other library resources to find out about a famous hurricane whose name is retired. They are to investigate the year in which the hurricane occurred, its rating on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale, its top wind speeds, the number of casualties it caused, and the path in which it traveled. Then the children will create a poster about this hurricane that includes photos and share with others.

Other great weather-related books written by Seymour Simon include:

• Simon, Seymour. Earthquakes. ISBN 0060877154.
• Simon, Seymour. Lightning. ISBN 0060877154.
• Simon, Seymour. Tornadoes. ISBN 0064437914.