Deserts are often thought of as vast wastelands of sand, with nothing in them but the burning sun and an empty horizon. Are deserts truly empty? Take an exotic journey from the American Mojave to the vast Sahara to the high-mountain Gobi and experience the hidden treasures that deserts hold. The people that live there, the plants and animals that thrive, and the riches that lie beneath the ground all contribute to the unique ecosystem that set deserts apart from the rest of the world-seemingly mysterious environments that play a role in the life-cycle of every continent. Straightforward and accessible text is ideal for younger readers, while an extensive appendix adds a more complete overview of the locations and subjects explored. Along with the author's vibrant illustrations, this oversized edition brings to life what makes deserts so much more than empty tracts of sad. Enjoy a broad and exciting view of a fascinating part of our planet Earth.