With the intriguing idea of exploring what lies below the surface of the
Earth as its broad theme, this fascinating book cleverly dices up the
subject into small, more manageable pieces ready to be devoured by young
readers, particularly boys. The basics are covered in detail, such as
the physical properties of the Earth's crust (including its unusual
features such as volcanoes and caves), as well as animals with
underground habitats. There is a treasure trove of information on the
uses humans have made of the underground --- from bunkers used during
wartime, to burial sites, to the Paris Métro --- as well as
possibilities for the future, even on Mars! What makes this book truly
unique, however, are the less expected subjects it covers --- fully
examining, for example, the subterranean city of Cappadocia, where early
Christians hid from Roman soldiers; King Tut's tomb and its alleged
curse; and the underground dungeons used for torture in medieval
castles.This is an extraordinary resource for earth science or social
sciences lessons covering any number of diverse subjects, from
paleontology to archaeology, from mythology to ancient civilizations and
from engineering to agriculture. The format is conducive to browsing,
with every topic covered on a two-page spread. The text by Jane Price is
easy to read and accessible, and engaging illustrations by James
Gulliver Hancock, along with many photographs, help to visualize the
sometimes-complicated concepts. Boxes, fun facts and funny captions keep
things lively and entertaining. A generous index helps with navigation.
