Thrill Seekers

Natural disasters like tornadoes destroy, devastate, and alter people's lives forever. Some people chase tornadoes for scientific purposes, while others just want the thrill of facing a twister's dangers. In this book, readers are introduced to the science behind tornadoes and to the people who have risked their lives to help us understand more about them. Graphic organizers and incredible photographs add to this glimpse into one of nature's most terrifying events.

It's hard to imagine there's a more extreme sport than skydiving. Jumping from a plane at 13,000 feet (3,962 m) or higher seems crazy to some, but those who try it are often hooked for life. Readers of this book step off the plane and into the high-flying world of skydiving, including tandem skydiving, accelerated free fall, BASE jumping, and competitive skydiving. The history and hazards of the sport are also considered, with midair photographs adding an even greater sense of amazement to this high-interest topic.

Reaching the summit of Earth's highest peak, Mount Everest, is a feat that most will never realize. However, readers will feel like they're gasping for air alongside the extreme athletes featured in this book. This text fully explores the history of expeditions up Everest as well as the intense training and unavoidable dangers that thrill seekers must face. Astounding achievements are included, such as climbing Everest blind and reaching the peak without oxygen, while breathtaking photographs will transport readers to the top of the world.

Great whites, hammerheads, and bull sharks are some of the fierce, hungry predators lurking in the pages of this book. Shark enthusiasts are invited to take the plunge and learn what's involved in shark diving. While most shark diving keeps participants safely in a cage, that hasn't stopped sharks from trying to get in. Readers will love the interesting information included about different shark species (such as the tiger shark caught with a suit of armor in its stomach!) and understand the true danger of this sport with every close-up shark image.