Young readers with a penchant for facts and a fascination with nature in all its extremes will enjoy Tim O’Shei’s Our Powerful Planet: The Curious Kid’s Guide to Tornadoes, Earthquakes, and Other Phenomena, which focuses on phenomena of the air, land, and water – everything from the causes of lightning to the lore surrounding rogue waves. Each topic is explored on two-page spreads that include detailed colour photographs, global references, and definitions. Particular attention is given to global warming and how kids can help combat it. O’Shei explains complex concepts well, using a tone that is playful without being condescending. Our Powerful Planet packs a lot of information for its size, making it a good resource for budding scientists. (Ages 6 – 9) mRb