Lava shoots into the air, then bubbles down mountains, flattening, burning, and boiling everything in its path. The destructive forces of volcanoes are terrifying and well-known. But what about their other forces? Volcanoes can spur new growth of plants and trees. In the water, they create an environment where coral reefs and sea life can thrive. In fact, the meeting of volcanic fire and ocean water gave way to life on Earth. Award-winning children's science author Mary M. Cerullo pairs world-renowned Smithsonian volcanology research with her signature storytelling style in this dynamic volcanic journey. Stitching science, history, and mythology together, Cerullo explores these explosive wonders of nature and reveals the secrets they've been keeping since the beginning of the world.