Philip Steele

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....

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...

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...

The different peoples making up Sudan have a long history of ethnic conflict. There has been civil war between the north and the south, as well as conflict among the various ethnic communities and nomadic groups living within these regions. Readers examine the civil unrest that has divided the country for decades, as well as the rebellion and massacres of the Darfur region. Factors contributing to the area's ongoing conflicts, including clashes over...

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...

What causes different types of weather? What's the weirdest weather in the world? These are just some of the questions kids might have about weather, and the answers to many of their questions are found in this relatable and informative look at a popular science curriculum topic. The easy-to-read format presents questions and answers using clear and concise text, allowing even reluctant readers to explore this essential topic independently and enthusiastically....

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...

This children's history book has everything you need to know about medieval castles, including knights, jousting, sieges, drawbridges, and forts. Learn about castle design, from the earliest motte and bailey styles to stone fortresses and beautiful castles in Japan and India.

Presents information about the Arctic and Antarctic Polar Regions, looking at the land, animals, people, and explorers associated with each and how the changing climate is affecting them.