The Day the World Exploded, by Simon Winchester

Adaptation by D.J. Zimmerman

Illustrated by Dwight Jon Zimmerman

Rating: Recommended

HarperCollins, 2007
ISBN: 978-0061239830

Age/Grade Level: 4th-8th grade

View this book on Amazon

This beautifully illustrated account of the explosion of the volcano Krakatoa is an adaptation for younger readers of Simon Winchester's New York Times best-selling book, Krakatoa.

Although the events leading up to, during, and following the volcanic explosion are the main focus for this fascinating book, there is a broad range of simultaneous historical events and inventions interwoven in the narrative. The content is rich in detail about the famous explosion, the theory of plate tectonics, Sumatra and Java history, and the role of the telegraph in reporting this event.

The devastation and the loss of 30,000 people in this August 1883 catastrophe can only be imagined; its effects were felt around the world. The book held my interest, cover to cover.

Reviewer: Jane Yarbrough, Library Consultant