Devastated by a Volcano! (Disaster Survivors)
Disaster Survivors Series
on Goodreads (5)
What’s inside...
This book recounts the harrowing experiences of individuals who have survived volcanic eruptions. Through personal stories, it explores the impact of volcanic disasters on human lives, detailing the events leading up to the eruptions, the devastating aftermath, and the resilience of survivors as they rebuild their lives. The narrative also delves into the science behind volcanoes, the warning signs preceding an eruption, and the importance of emergency preparedness and response. 'Devastated by a Volcano! (Disaster Survivors)' serves as a testament to human courage and a guide to understanding one of nature's most formidable phenomena. On June 25, 1997, a volcano on the Caribbean island of Montserrat erupted, spewing hot lava and ash. Linda Daley was washing clothes outside her home in the nearby city of Plymouth when she saw fiery clouds begin to shoot out of the volcano. With clouds of ash and poisonous gases speeding toward her, how would she survive? Eyewitness accounts and incredible photos bring to life the experiences of ordinary people who faced catastrophic danger--and lived to tell their stories. Kids will discover the causes and characteristics of volcanoes, and learn about the scientific advances that now allow earlier warnings of possible eruptions to be issued. Safety tips show young readers what to do if they are ever near a volcanic eruption.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-12
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What would you do if you were in a situation similar to the characters in the book?
How do you think the survivors felt during the volcano eruption?
What are some ways that people can prepare for natural disasters?
What did you learn about volcanoes and natural disasters from this story?
How do you think teamwork helped the survivors in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they already know about volcanoes and natural disasters. This sets a foundation for new information.
While reading, encourage your child to imagine themselves in the characters’ shoes. This enhances empathy and understanding.
Discuss the importance of emergency preparedness and how knowledge can be a powerful tool during disasters.
After reading, encourage your child to express their feelings about the story through drawings or other creative means.
Revisit the book's events and discuss the outcomes to reinforce the lessons learned about survival and resilience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Throughout 'Devastated by a Volcano!', characters face tremendous challenges due to the natural disaster but strive to overcome and adapt to their new circumstances.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to stay strong and adapt when facing difficulties, whether it's moving to a new school or dealing with a family problem.
Example Lesson: Importance of community support
Explanation: The book shows how survivors of the volcano disaster come together as a community to help each other recover and rebuild their lives.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to value and participate in their own communities, understanding the strength that comes from unity and cooperation.
Example Lesson: Awareness and preparedness for natural disasters
Explanation: The story educates about the signs of an impending volcano eruption and the safety measures to take, providing practical knowledge through an engaging narrative.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this knowledge by recognizing the importance of being prepared for emergencies, leading to proactive learning about safety measures for various natural disasters.
Example Lesson: Empathy for those affected by disasters
Explanation: By portraying the emotions and struggles of disaster survivors, the book fosters a sense of empathy and understanding in young readers.
Real-World Application: This helps children develop a deeper sense of empathy and compassion towards people who experience losses or are in distress, promoting kinder interactions and supportiveness in their everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Science behind volcanic eruptions
Explanation: Through engaging storytelling, the book explains the scientific aspects of how and why volcanoes erupt, enhancing educational value.
Real-World Application: Kids gain a better understanding of earth sciences and are encouraged to explore more about the planet’s geological phenomena, which can spark a lifelong interest in science.