on Goodreads (18)
What’s inside...
Jason Chin’s richly illustrated picture book follows two siblings on a summer day at their coastal home. As the children build a sandcastle, readers slip into an immersive, fact-filled exploration of how Atlantic hurricanes are born, grow, and make landfall. Scientific diagrams and dramatic, cinematic spreads show the storm’s inner workings—from warm ocean waters and rising air currents to the eye, storm surge, and eventual dissipation. When the hurricane reaches the children’s town, the narrative shifts to their family’s preparations, the storm’s impact, and the community’s clean-up and resilience. Blending lyrical storytelling with clear scientific explanations, the book delivers both emotional resonance and STEM content.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Unnamed Older Child
Unnamed Younger Child
Father
Discussion points
What signs showed the hurricane was forming?
How did the family prepare, and why were those steps important?
Which part of the storm surprised you most?
How can communities help each other after a disaster?
What other weather events would you like to learn about?
Tip: Role play these questions
Compare storm diagrams to weather-app imagery.
Create a simple family emergency kit together.
Encourage drawing the storm’s eye to solidify understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Preparation reduces fear.
Explanation: Family boards windows, gathers supplies before storm hits.
Real-World Application: Plan emergency kits and evacuation routes at home.
Example Lesson: Knowledge is power.
Explanation: Scientific diagrams clarify how storms work.
Real-World Application: Research questions to understand unfamiliar events.
Example Lesson: Community resilience.
Explanation: Neighbors join forces to clean up and rebuild.
Real-World Application: Volunteer locally after severe weather or other challenges.