Crystals and Gemstones (Rock Stars)

Grade 2–4—Accessible and action-oriented, short but info-packed, these books aim to turn every reader into a junior rock hound. While not stinting on solid stuff like the rock cycle, formation, classification, and uses (both historical and contemporary)—and veined throughout with enticing fun facts—the core of these volumes is a six-page directory of rock, mineral, gemstone, and fossil specimens for budding collectors. Guidelines for starting the collection are included as sidebar information. Layouts are a bit cluttered and clumsy, but encourage browsing. Photographs are fine, and graphics are kept extremely simple. A good glossary and short index will help report writers mine these books for all they're worth.—Paula Willey, Baltimore County Public Library, Towson, MD
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