On the morning after Christmas, 2004, scientists detected a major earthquake in the Indian Ocean. They had no idea it had triggered a deadly wave. This tsunami would leave about 280,000 people dead and 1.5 million children homeless. Learn about the largest aid operation in the history of the world and the miraculous survival of some of the people who were washed out to sea. This book explains why tsunamis occur and what can be done to minimize their damage. Timelines, a glossary, ideas for research, and suggestions for future reading are included in this gripping read about this devastating natural disaster.