Eye of the Storm

This thoroughly engaging, dramatically illustrated offering about storms and their many manifestations indeed promises science, magic, and meaning. The book begins with accessible meteorologic and technical explanations of various stormy attributes (general weather, thunder and lightning, wind, snow, hail, tides, dust); concluding sections cover the science of predicting and preparing for potentially dangerous weather, measuring and mitigating storms' impact, and monitoring changing weather patterns for the future. In between, there's ample coverage of the magical aspects of extreme weather. Spreads profile myths and legends from six cultures (Norse, Caddo, Incan, Hawai'ian, Nigerian, and Indian). The meaning of storms is addressed in the chapter dedicated to "Storms in the Arts." There are references to how cataclysmic weather plays roles in literary works and movies (Wuthering Heights, The Tempest, Frozen) and has inspired artists (Georgia O'Keeffe) and musicians (Antonio Vivaldi). There's also a spread on storm photographers and the challenges they face. All of these topics are supported by dynamic illustrations in vivid hues that spread across pages and amply capture the surging energy of stormy conditions. There is a glossary but no notes or bibliography. Still, this visual treat on inclement weather will surely entice browsers and spark plenty of interest. -- Kathleen McBroom * Booklist, STARRED Review *
An expansive whirl of art, science, statistics, history, and folklore-all related to storms. Bravely attempting to at least touch on an improbably broad array of topics, Ard sweeps past causes of extreme weather to offer brief descriptions of select storm-themed art, books, movies, music, and tales from world cultures, and then finishes off with a quick tally of historically damaging meteorological catastrophes and modern flood protection structures and strategies. In often luridly lit illustrations that make whirling winds, clouds, and waves look positively solid, D'Hipólito follows suit, and though his attention to detail may not always be exact, the scale and violence of his tornadoes and typhoons make dramatic viewing. The artist's writers, painters, and storm chasers have pale skin, but orchestral musicians in one scene and folkloric figures elsewhere show greater diversity. The author's closing observation that climate change isn't increasing the number of storms but does seem to be making them more powerful is well calculated to catch attention. * Kirkus Reviews *
The fourth title in Flying Eye's 'The Science, Magic and Meaning' series, 'Eye of the Storm' offers a fascinating look at everything storm related, making this the perfect book for curious readers. With information gathered in four clear sections- All About Storms, Myths and Legends, Storms in the Arts and Storms and Us - the book is both an excellent resource for supporting learning about weather systems and for enriching and expanding the curriculum, making this essential non-fiction for both home and school. * Through the Bookshelf *