This book is part of the "First Starts" series that looks at popular topics that should prove of interest to first and younger readers. This book on earthquakes explains what earthquakes are, where and why they occur and the effects they have, such as avalanches, tidal waves and the destruction of buildings. The book also looks at ancient and modern ways of studying and forecasting earthquakes, and how these methods may help prevent major disasters following serious earthquakes. Other books in the "Fresh Starts" series look at "Volcanoes", "Pollution", "Animals in Danger" and "Mountains".