Chasing the Storm: Tornadoes, Meteorology, and Weather Watching

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