OUR PATCHWORK PLANET

A comprehensive introduction to plate tectonics, written in a beautifully balanced style. Neither too complicated, nor too simple, Sattler formulates information in a way that is lucid without being dull. The topics covered include the appearance of the inside of the earth, the formation and movements of tectonic plates, of continents and mountains, and the various ways of dealing with earthquakes. The text is illustrated with over 40 full-color maps and diagrams, photographs and computer-generated pictures. But the most vivid illustrations in the book belong to Sattler herself: The images and metaphors with which she fleshes out her descriptions of physical processes are masterfully chosen. Her prose—firm, yet supple—is a model of writing about science for children. (maps, diagrams, further reading, index) (Nonfiction. 7+)