“We learn geology the morning after the earthquake.”
Earthquakes occur when the Earth’s tectonic plates suddenly move along the fault lines under the planet’s surface. These movements release elastic-strain energy, creating seismic waves that cause the ground to shake. The resulting effects can be catastrophic for those in the surrounding areas of the epicentre. It’s worth noting that the term “earthquake” also covers similar seismic waves resulting from man-made activities such as mine explosions and nuclear tests. Earthquakes have played a significant role in human history, making them one of the most impactful natural disasters. Join us at What We Reading as we take a look at some classic non-fiction books about earthquakes!
Waking The Giant – Bill McGuire
In just 20,000 years, Earth has transformed from a frozen wilderness to a hospitable planet where our species thrives. The end of the Ice Age marked a turning point in human history but also triggered major geological shifts that resulted in catastrophic natural disasters.
In his book, Waking the Giant, renowned volcanologist and activist Bill McGuire delves into how climate change caused by human activities is exacerbating these destructive events. McGuire draws on his expertise to explain the consequences of climate change and the potentially devastating impacts that future generations may face. From devastating earthquakes to unimaginable tsunamis, this book sheds light on the pressing issue of our time.
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The Big Ones – Lucy Jones
The Big Ones, a 2018 earthquake book by veteran seismologist Lucy Jones, has been nominated for the Best Science and Technology award in the Goodreads Choice Awards. Jones takes readers on a journey through history, exploring the world’s most devastating natural disasters and their impact on our culture. With her extensive research and energetic writing style, she offers fresh perspectives on the future of these calamities.
This book presents compelling evidence on how climate change is causing natural disasters to occur with greater frequency, leading to even more catastrophic consequences for humanity. From Pompeii to Katrina, Jones covers how religion, collective failure, globalization, and governance have shaped our cities and settlements over time, and how humans respond in times of crisis. The Big Ones is a powerful call to action, urging readers to confront the realities of our changing planet and take action to protect ourselves and future generations.
A Crack In The Edge Of The World – Simon Winchester
A Crack in the Edge of the World by British journalist Simon Winchester is a comprehensive guide to the 1906 California Earthquake, one of North America’s most devastating natural disasters.
In the early morning hours of April 18th, San Francisco was hit by an earthquake measuring 8.25 on the Richter scale. The aftermath was catastrophic: 490 blocks were destroyed, 25,000 buildings toppled, and three days of fires resulted in over 250,000 people losing their homes and more than 700 losing their lives. Drawing on his extensive knowledge of geology and his storytelling skills, Winchester vividly brings to life this incredible event and explores its lasting impact on North American society.
Earth-Shattering Events – Andrew Robinson
In Earth-Shattering Events, author and editor Andrew Robinson delves into the complex relationship between humans and earthquakes throughout history. Despite as many as sixty cities being located in areas of high seismic activity, human settlements have proven to be remarkably resilient in the face of these natural disasters, with millions of people rebuilding and continuing to live in affected areas.
Robinson explores the largest earthquakes in history and investigates why some cities were able to thrive in their aftermath while others struggled to recover. This insightful analysis provides a unique perspective on how humans have adapted to living in earthquake-prone regions and offer valuable insights into how we can better prepare for and respond to these earth-shattering events in the future.
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Cascadia’s Fault – Jerry Thompson
Cascadia’s Fault by Jerry Thompson is a gripping examination of the Cascadia Subduction Zone, a crack in the Earth’s crust that has produced at least 36 major earthquakes over the past 10,000 years. Thompson explains how this zone produces massive earthquakes every 500 years and warns of the next catastrophic event that could threaten the entire North American continent.
From Sacramento to Vancouver, the resulting tsunami could cause massive destruction in neighbouring Pacific Rim countries like Australia and Japan, potentially leading to economic and humanitarian crises of unprecedented scale. With an introduction by Simon Winchester, Cascadia’s Fault serves as a powerful reminder of the looming threat of a disaster that could strike North America at any moment.
Catastrophes! – Donald R. Prothero
Catastrophes, by acclaimed palaeontologist and geologist Donald R. Prothero, is a gripping examination of some of the world’s deadliest natural disasters. Through the eyes of those who have been affected by earthquakes and other brutal acts of nature, Prothero explores how these catastrophes have shaped modern society and taught us to respect the immense power of Mother Nature. Filled with stunning photographs and gripping eyewitness accounts, Catastrophes is a book that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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Quakeland – Kathryn Miles
Kathryn Miles’ Quakeland takes readers on a fascinating journey through the United States, exploring the looming threat of earthquakes beyond just San Francisco. With riveting storytelling and meticulous research, Miles uncovers startling new findings about seismic activity in North America and reveals how human intervention and development have put communities at risk.
As she sheds light on these potential scenarios, Miles raises critical questions about the preparedness of the United States in the face of earthquake risks and the consequences of building on fault lines. Whether you’re a seasoned geologist or simply curious about the world around you, Quakeland is an eye-opening read that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about earthquakes.
Part-time reader, part-time rambler, and full-time Horror enthusiast, James has been writing for What We Reading since 2022. His earliest reading memories involved Historical Fiction, Fantasy and Horror tales, which he has continued to take with him to this day. James’ favourite books include The Last (Hanna Jameson), The Troop (Nick Cutter) and Chasing The Boogeyman (Richard Chizmar).
