Why Mount St. Helens Blew Its Top
by
Kathryn A. Goldner and Carole G. Vogel
with illustrations by Roberta Aggarwal
On May 8, 1980, Mount St. Helens erupted in a display of volcanic force that claimed at
least sixty-five lives. In this book, illustrated with dynamic full-color photographs, the
authors provide a dramatic blow-by-blow account of the eruption and its devastating
aftermath. The enormous explosive force of volcanoes is clearly explained in words and
diagrams, and the stories of other famous volcanoes—Krakatoa, Mount Vesuvius, Mont
Pele --are told from the perspective of
the people who lived near them. Finally, the volcanoes in the Cascade Mountain Range are
examined. Which volcano is likely to erupt next? And when will Mount St. Helens blow its
top again?
Praise for Why Mount St. Helens Blew Its Top:
"A very good account of the volcano’s eruption…with just the right balance of sensationalism and scientific fact to capture the attention of nearly any age. There are very fine dramatic photographs—some in color—that heighten excitement and interest, and diagrams to make crystal clear every explained fact. Best of all, these come in exactly the right place in the text so there is a minimum of confusion, even in the most technical spots…This is a very good piece of work." – Appraisal
"With Mount St. Helens serving as a vivid example, the authors explore the causes and kinds of volcanoes and look to see what other mountains on the North American continent might be potential hot spots. The North American slant is timely, and the close-up coverage of Mount St. Helens and its aftermath will be useful…" – ALA Booklist