Book excerpt: In this beautifully illustrated mock-autobiography for middle-grade readers, Wind speaks directly to the reader, telling fascinating stories that show their cultural, historical and technical importance to humans. Make no mistake: Wind is not shy or humble. Wind is violent, impulsive, arrogant and unpredictable — now playing with a kite, then tearing down a forest. With the help of diagrams and fact-filled sidebars, Wind explains what causes the air to move, describes their favorite forms (katabatics, hurricanes, tornadoes) and shows how they influence the landscape (sand dunes, wind power). Readers will come to know the full breadth of Wind's physical, historical and psychological presence. Moving seamlessly between science, history and myth, this book is an engrossing and unique look at an elemental force.