Volcano: questions to ask and activities to try
Deep in the ocean, a new volcano is born. Volcano is a lyrical non-fiction picture book about underwater volcanoes and the surprising creatures that live around them.
What age is it for? Volcano is best for ages 5–8. Good for: Volcanoes deep under the sea, and the life they create.
Volcano (Claire Saxby and Jess Racklyeft)
- Age
- 5-8
- Best for
- Volcanoes deep under the sea, and the life they create
Read the story first, then the facts. Talk about how life can grow in the strangest places.
What it helps with
- How volcanoes form
- Life in the deep sea
- Hot and cold
- Curiosity about science
Comprehension and discussion questions
Pick two or three, not all of them. “I don’t know” is a fine answer, and you can always come back to it another day.
- “Where was the volcano?”
- “What happened when it formed?”
- “What are the chimneys?”
- “Which creatures lived there?”
- “How do they survive?”
- “What else would you like to know?”
5-minute activities to try together
Fizzy volcano
Make a bicarbonate-and-vinegar volcano in a tray.
Deep sea drawing
Draw the weirdest deep-sea creature you can imagine.
Free printables: Volcano worksheet and activity pack
This book’s one-page worksheet with the questions and activities above, plus our activity pack: printable scenario cards, three 5-minute activities and a “What could I try?” page for practising everyday skills together. Enter your email and download them straight away.
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If your child liked this, try
Surprising Sharks (Nicola Davies and James Croft)
- Best for
- Real facts about sharks, and looking past first impressions
- Age
- 4-8
Hey, Water! (Antoinette Portis)
- Best for
- Spotting water everywhere, from rain to tears
- Age
- 3-7
Pop-Up Dinosaurium (Chris Wormell)
- Best for
- Dinosaurs up close, with pop-ups
- Age
- 5-8
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 10 October 2026
Growing Wise offers educational ideas for parents and carers. It is not a substitute for professional medical, developmental or mental-health advice. As an Amazon Associate, Growing Wise earns from qualifying purchases.