Talking rocks and minerals Fact-packed guide to geology

Gr 1--3--An informative and colorful way to explore the vast world of geology. Reporter Pebble walks, or rocks, his way through a pun-filled formation of rocks. Beautiful and vibrant digital illustrations that integrate photos of real rocks provide a seamless style that is fun and visually accurate for identifying rocks in the real world. Geologic facts are presented through "interviews" with different rocks, letting them explain in their own words how they were created. Included throughout are illustrations of Pebble's notebook pages filled with interesting snippets of information that pertain to the rock presented in the layout. These factoids are not-so-hidden gems that add to the idea that Pebble is a reporter. The text provides a very basic explanation of the formation of rocks and gems that makes for a kid-friendly work for inclusion in science curriculum. A basic glossary is included as is a list of additional resources for further discovery and research. VERDICT An entertaining introduction to geology and the rocks that surround us, and a strong addition to elementary science and nature collections.--Elizabeth Speer

In puntastic profusion, rocks and minerals chip in to introduce themselves: "Gneiss to meet you." As the accurately named tour guide Pebble dishes up commentary and at least some of the wordplay ("I'll never take you for GRANITE, buddy"), select rock stars from coal to marble describe their igneous, sedimentary, or metamorphic origins as a prelude to glimpses of a glittering gallery of gems and a jumble of cameos from special guests: pyrite, fossils, and space rocks. Along the way, a look at the rock cycle shows how the three types of rock can transform into one another, and a pair of geodes offer readers a look at the "secrets" they conceal: gorgeous crystals. Carlson seamlessly shuffles photos and painted images together for the illustrations, tacking a smile and googly eyes onto Pebble and many specimens but accurately capturing their broad range of typical colors and surface textures. "Of course, there are always more rocks to discover!" Towler concludes, and to help readers "keep rocking on," she finishes up with sources and advice for prospective rock hounds, plus a quick testimonial from a working scientist. A geo-logical approach to discovering how rocks rock. (glossary)(Informational picture book. 7-9) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.