Jump into Science: Rocks and Minerals

To be fair to this book- it is well done! Unfortunately, I was looking for something that gave a little more information. Also in defense of the book, it does give a lot of the basic introduction to how rocks are created and the geological background of the earth's structure that is necessary in educating children about rocks and minerals. I do have to say what really turned me off was the activity on how to make a rock in the back of the book that advocates using glue. To be honest- if I had known that previously I would have never bought this book, which is why it gets 3 stars. For some it may seem trivial to downgrade it so much based on an activity, but for those who were raised outdoors and always out in nature, the activity feels like a complete separation from the truth, and can misguide the child. Personally, as a teacher, I would never use this activity in class. Also, I bought this book for the five year old son of a park ranger/biologist who might be upset with me once he sees the activity- so I think I'll flag this page and warn him in advance. Otherwise, this book is good for a six to eight year old interested in geology and earth sciences. I initially bought this book to get my nephew interested in reading and go along with a diverse rock kit and geodes I bought him to add to his already huge collection, but I think he still can like this book if we go section by section. A lot for a child to digest in one sitting.

We did a Geology unit for homeschool, and I unfortunately didn't find this book until the end - for my young elementary kids it would have been practically all we needed to get the basics down! Engaging pictures and simple, clear explanations of what rocks and minerals are, how they form, and how we use them.

Both my sons are into rocks and minerals, finding a book that was age appropriate (age 4 and 6) was rather hard but they found it engaging so it worked out.

My great grandson, Marcos, at age 8 became obsessed with different kinds of rocks. I decided that a book on rocks must be found to further his knowledge beyond what his great grandma could offer. In browsing Amazon I came across this wonderful book. I loved the look on his face when I presented it to him giving him an opening for better understanding of just what "Rocks" are and what they look like.Carole Yarwood

My six year old loves her rock book. It's very informative but pitched appropriately for a young elementary school child, has nice illustrations, and even includes a hands-on make a sedimentary rock project at the end. I highly recommend this book for folks whose children love rocks.

I bought this book for my 7 year old nephew and he loves it. He is just getting into science and finds rocks fascinating. This book is very well written for young children. They can read it by themselves because it is age appropriate and easily understood.

My 8 year old granddaughter is starting to learn about rocks and minerals and the book was captivating. So much so that her 10 year old brother is very interested also.

I was looking for books to introduce my grandchildren to the world of rocks and minerals in a fun and interesting way. This is a good book for very young learners.

I bought this for my niece and she loved it. Its simple without being dumbed down. A good buy.