Life on Surtsey:Iceland's Upstart Island

Reviewed by: Kathy George - Gray Publlic Library, Gray, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: March 20, 2018

Review

Scientists in the Field has added another excellent volume to its collection with Life on Surtsey. At first glance it doesn't grab the reader as would the volume on sharks or octopuses, but once you have picked it up, you won't be able to put it down.In November of 1963 a volcano off the coast of Iceland, which sits on top of an underground mountain range exploded and by the next day a new island had formed. Scientists named it for the Icelandic god of fire- Surtur. This newly formed island has given scientists the rare chance to study the when,from where, how, and in what order does life invade an island devoid of life. Loree Griffin Burns,through text and photos takes the reader along as the scientists take this unique opportunity in the study of an island from its formation. Beautifulluy rendered it is another winner in the Scientists in the Field series.

Overall Book Score: excellent