A tornado can destroy an entire town, leaving homes in shambles. People can be injured or killed. Tornadoes are destructive to nature too. They can pull trees or crops from the ground, destroying food or habitats. The storms can cause pollution damages the land. After a tornado ends, the area starts its recovery. Learn how people stay safe from tornadoes and what they can do to help the environment recover. This informative series introduces readers to natural disasters and their wide-ranging effects on people, animals, and the environment. Each volume explores a specific disaster, breaking it down into causes, environmental impact, human and animal consequences, and post-disaster recovery ­efforts. In Droughts and the Environment, readers learn what a drought is, how long it can last, and the toll it takes on habitats and communities. In Tornadoes and the Environment, topics include how tornadoes form, their levels of destruction, how they are measured, and how scientists track their patterns. Fact boxes highlight key concepts, while focused case studies, such as the Dust Bowl and the 1953 Worcester tornado, offer historical context. Stark, dramatic photos underscore the power and threat of these natural events. The back matter includes a glossary, an index, and resource lists. VERDICT A strong choice for building awareness of environmental ­science and disaster preparedness.--Cathy DeCampli, Haddonfield PL, NJ "School Library Journal" Marcia Amidon Lusted has written 200 books and over 600 magazine articles for young readers of all ages. She also writes and edits for adults and works in sustainable development. Visit www.adventuresinnonfiction.com for more about her books.