Spring 2026

Earth-Shattering Events

Volcanoes, Earthquakes, Cyclones, Tsunamis, and Other Natural Disasters

  • Interest Level: Grade 4 - Grade 8
  • Reading Level: Grade 4

An atlas of the most extreme meteorological and geological disasters that nature has to offer!

‘’Dynamic illustrations paired with illuminating text will entice even a reluctant reader to revel in this selection; an excellent addition to any nonfiction library’’. — School Library journal, Starred Review

‘’An eye-opening, and -widening, early introduction to our restless planet’’. — Kirkus

‘’The introduction’s warning—“every so often, the planet reminds us who’s boss”—rings out again at the conclusion, which explains how climate change could amplify each of these terrible and fascinating natural events’‘. -- Publisher’s Weekly

‘’Earth Shattering Events! is one of those books that perfectly balances both the needs of the child, and the wants of the adult; it’s fun, educational and equally entertaining to people big and small’’. — The AOI

We humans take our domination of the planet for granted, but sometimes nature reminds us that this is an illusion. Tectonics rip open the earth, vast waves sweep away coastal towns, magma spews from volcanoes, and hurricanes lay waste to entire countries.

This book explores nature at its most destructive. Clear, coherent explanations break down the science behind phenomena including hurricanes, tornadoes, avalanches, earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanoes, alongside fascinating facts about the biggest and the worst. Informative, accessible illustrations by Sophie Williams make this so much more than your standard geography book.

Format Your Price Add
978-1-908714-70-1
On pre-order until 01/01/2026
$19.95
Available at all major wholesalers and distributors. Save 25% off list price on library bound hardcovers and all eBook and eBook with Audio editions when you buy direct! Digital purchases will be accessed on Lerner Digital Bookshelf. An account will be created for you after purchase.
Interest Level Grade 4 - Grade 8
Reading Level Grade 4
Genre Science
Category 5 Kinds of Nonfiction, 5KN: Browseable Nonfiction
Copyright 2019
Publisher Cicada Books
Language English
Number of Pages 98
Publication Date 2026-01-01
Text Type Informational/Explanatory
BISACS JNF051160, JNF037010, JNF037080
Dimensions 9.5 x 11.8

Author: Robin Jacobs

Robin Jacobs is a children’s television and book writer living on the outskirts of Bristol, UK, with her family and two dogs. She has an undergraduate degree in earth sciences and has authored books such as Earth-Shattering Events (Cicada, 2019) and The Mellons Build a House (Cicada, 2023).

Illustrator: Sophie Williams

Sophie Williams is a Cornish illustrator and author. Her bright, engaging style of drawing is inspired by illustrators such as Nick Sharratt and Gemma Correll. She is the illustrator of Earth Shattering Events (2019), Stones and Bones (2024) and the author of Map of You (2022).