Dishes rattle. Chandeliers swing. The ground jiggles as if a big truck is rumbling by. A small earthquake has just taken place.

Every day there are at least a thousand earthquakes on our planet. Most are minor, but each year a few are large enough to knock down buildings. What causes earthquakes? Where do they occur? How can people stay safe when one is happening?

In clear, concise language, and accompanied by Richard Rosenblum's lively full-color illustrations, renowned science writer Franklyn M. Branley explains the fascinating and powerful phenomenon of earthquakes.

From the dust jacket