Collision Course! Cosmic Impacts and Life on Earth

Gr. 4-7. Bortz, the author of Catastrophe: Great Engineering Failure--and Success (1995) and Martian Fossils of Earth?: The Story of Meteorite ALH 84001 (1997), now explores the dramatic events that ensue when comets and asteroids collide with planets. Beginning with the planetary collision that gave the earth its size, tilt, seasons, and tides, Bortz discusses evidence for the Cretaceous catastrophe (the probable asteroid impact 65 million years ago), the Tunguska event of 1908 in Siberia, and the crash of Comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 into Jupiter in 1994. The closing chapters consider "near Earth objects," their detection, and how they might be prevented from colliding with the home planet. Every page of this informative book reflects Bortz's enthusiasm for the stories he relates, the scientists he interviewed, and the process of science. The high interest topic of cosmic collisions benefits from the energy and clarity of the writing. Although the cover illustration of a dinosaur watching an asteroid streak toward Earth may play to readers intrigued by disaster, the text and illustrations are anything but alarmist. Rather, they offer solid information and informed speculation on a topic of practical as well as theoretical concern. Paintings, photographs, and computer-enhanced images, many in color, illustrate the text. Back matter includes an author's note as well as lists of recommended books and Internet resources. Carolyn Phelan
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