Philip Steele

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...

Iran is a country rich in culture, with a long, sometimes violent history. After the Shah was overthrown in 1979, the Ayatollah Khomeini ruled the government. They led the country into war with Iraq and created tension with many Western countries, including the United States. Readers explore the long history and culture of Iran-the rise of the Ayatollah, the election of current president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, diplomatic relations with countries in...

Weather can be truly wild. Mild breezes can give way to a terrifying tornado in a matter of minutes. What happens in Earth's atmosphere to cause weather is the focus of this beautifully designed volume. Fascinating facts about weather matters such as the water cycle, thunderstorms, and climate change are presented alongside absorbing, hands-on activities that reinforce key concepts. Gripping graphics, exciting images, and a dynamic design will

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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....

Scientific evidence clearly shows that temperatures and the level of CO2 in the atmosphere have risen dramatically since the end of the nineteenth century, coinciding with the rise of industrialization. But what can be done to slow the effects of climate change on humans, plants and animals, and natural resources? This book explains the consequences of further climate change, from flooding of coastal areas to unhealthy pollution in urban areas, and...

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...

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...

Explains where it snows and why and how snow affects the lives of humans and other animals.