Philip Steele

Deforestation, mining, drilling, rising sea levels, and other threats are contributing to decreasing biodiversity around the world. This analytical approach to disappearing habitats and endangered species addresses issues such as climate change, population growth, and the efficacy of conservation efforts. Readers are provided with statistics and perspectives on all sides of the issue, allowing them to consider difficult questions such as how to balance...

What causes different types of weather? What's the weirdest weather in the world? These are just some of the questions kids might have about weather, and the answers to many of their questions are found in this relatable and informative look at a popular science curriculum topic. The easy-to-read format presents questions and answers using clear and concise text, allowing even reluctant readers to explore this essential topic independently and enthusiastically....

Access to clean, fresh water is vital for all humans, but in many parts of the world, getting water is not as simple as turning on the tap. Contaminated water, especially in impoverished areas, kills millions of people a year, while warming oceans, Arctic melt, and disappearing rainforests are a threat to the environment. This book shows how humans use water and how we can help preserve it in the wake of these threats. Statistics and fact boxes help...

Beyond fueling vehicles used for all kinds of transportation, oil and gas resources affect many other aspects of people's lives, through their use in medicines, plastics, detergents, and fabrics. This book examines how oil is extracted and transported through pipelines, including discussion of controversial processes like fracking and drilling in the Arctic. The political and economic impact of controlling these resources is critiqued, allowing readers...

Readers examine the history of Afghanistan, including its wars with the British Empire through its present-day occupation by American and NATO forces. Issues explored include the rise of the Taliban, the 9/11 attacks and the subsequent U.S. military ouster of the Taliban, the war of insurgency, and the plan for military withdrawal. Case studies show real-life experiences from a variety of sources, and opinion panels present diverse points of view....

As humans continue to shape the environment through urbanization and increased industrialization, it will become more difficult to feed everyone, with the U.N. estimating that food production will need to increase by 70 percent if, as projected, the world population is around nine billion in 2050. This book explains how climate change and lack of water affect crops, making it difficult to feed people, especially in impoverished areas. Also discussed...

The different peoples making up Sudan have a long history of ethnic conflict. There has been civil war between the north and the south, as well as conflict among the various ethnic communities and nomadic groups living within these regions. Readers examine the civil unrest that has divided the country for decades, as well as the rebellion and massacres of the Darfur region. Factors contributing to the area's ongoing conflicts, including clashes over...

The Vikings were famous for being fierce warriors and expert sailors. But what else do you know about them? This fascinating fact file gives readers aged 5 and up a first insight into the amazing lives of the Vikings. Find out about the mythology surrounding their gods and goddesses. Discover how Viking society worked, from the king at the top to slaves at the bottom. Learn about the ways in which Viking people had fun, including wrestling, tug-of-war...

Describes dangerous insects and spiders that sting or bite, spread disease, or destroy crops.

I Wonder Why series book about Egyptian civilization.