Helen Pellant

Rocks, from the series Rock Stars, outlines the basics about types of rocks as well as how to find and identify rocks. Authors Chris and Helen Pellant, whose photographs on rocks and fossils are used worldwide by publishers, create a high interest nonfiction book by creating visually appealing page layouts. The photos are the main focus with limited and simple sentences that support the discovery and identification of rocks. In greater detail, the authors' positioning of text, background color and shapes enhance the readability- making it a great identification book for younger readers. Other helpful features include bolded terms that are explained in the glossary, an index, a contents and photo captions when necessary. Younger readers will find the Record Breakers and Did You Know sections interesting as they list out random, but intriguing facts about rocks. The crisp and detailed photos will help readers classify rocks. Also, the brief sections on how to start collecting and finding rocks will get readers antsy to go rock hunting. The cautionary alert to go rock collecting with adults lets readers know that look for rocks can be dangerous. This book is worth having in a collection that serves elementary readers as it creates a feeling for reader involvement and the information provided is developmentally appropriate for young readers who are discovering rocks for the first time.

Age Appropriate: 7 to 11 years-old
Note: This book could be used for older readers who have limited English.… (meer)