Chasing the Storm

March 1, 2014

Gr 4-7-The opening chapter of this book covers a day in the life of storm chaser, which is by turns exciting, frustrating, and scary. Subsequent chapters explore related topics: the makings of a tornado, reasons for recent extreme weather, meteorology, agencies that watch weather, and careers in the field. It turns out that storm chasing is not as glamorous or as lucrative as television would have viewers believe, but it is still a viable hobby or potential career for extreme weather fans. A few experiments (water vapor and greenhouse effect) and instructions for building a weather station with household objects are included. Color photographs of storm chasers at work, lightning bolts, dust devils, and the aftermath of recent storms help to create an attractive package. Unfortunately, some awkwardly worded sentences, missing words, and repetition of information make for a confusing read at times. The storm-chaser angle is an interesting way to introduce weather, but the problems mentioned above lessen its value; purchase where more on the topic is needed.-Heather Acerro, Rochester Public Library, MN

Copyright 2014 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

February 1, 2014
Recognizing the appeal but emphasizing the difficulties, a veteran science writer offers a window into the world of scientists and lay enthusiasts who follow violent storms, particularly tornadoes. Introducing his subject with a look at a day in the life of a storm chaser, Miller goes on to explore it in greater depth in an accessible, informative narrative. He explains how tornadoes are formed, discusses climate change and its probable connection to the increase in extreme weather events, describes the work of meteorologists and others who watch the weather (either officially or as part of the National Weather Service's volunteer corps of recorders and spotters), and concludes by suggesting ways readers can prepare to become storm chasers themselves. He includes instructions for assembling a weather emergency kit and constructing homemade weather-watching instruments; the excellent suggestions for further reading and Internet research will be particularly useful for students. All this is packaged in a slim, attractively designed package in which the text is broken up by sidebars providing definitions, explanations and short bios as well as photographs and colorful diagrams. Pair with Joseph B. Treaster's Hurricane Force (2007) or other titles about hurricane hunters for a broader vision of storm study in this country. A serious look at a dangerous pursuit. (Nonfiction. 11-16)

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February 1, 2014
Grades 5-8 Since 2011, devastating killer tornadoes across the central swath of the U.S. have almost become commonplace. Following the rare 2011 EF5-level tornado that hit Joplin, Missouri, another EF5 struck Moore, Oklahoma, in 2012. Only one month later, in the same state, three trained storm chasers were killed in a tornado. Although curiosity seekers still chase storms, trained storm chasing is now a recognized segment of science, albeit a dangerous one. With the advent of newer meteorological equipment and techniques, earlier warning systems are in place, alerting more people more quickly and saving untold lives. Miller cites global warming and increased carbon dioxide levels as major contributors to extreme weather, and he outlines the role of meteorologists and the role meteorology plays in storm prediction. Accessible text, engaging diagrams, and dynamic photographs make this a surefire hit for budding scientists and their teachers. Back matter includes instructions for creating a weather station and what's needed for a weather emergency kit.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2014, American Library Association.)