Rocks, Shells and Minerals -- Review of book and a project

 

Disclosure: I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

This has been an interesting summer. Here in the Boston area we are experience a very wet and cool July. This July is the third wettest on record in Boston and the wettest July in Worcester. There have only been a few days where no rain fell. As a result there haven't been many real beach days. But during the dry times it is still fun to walk on the beach and look for some beach treasures. To go with these walks is today's book from National Geographic Kids. It is Little Kids First Big Book: Rocks, Minerals and Shells by Moira Rose Donohue. It is recommended for ages 4 to 8. 

From the Publisher:

Get ready to be dazzled! This lively reference book for the younger set introduces a fascinating variety of Earth’s rocks, minerals, gemstones, fossils, and shells--from granite to gold, marble to malachite, and conchs to clams.

Discover how rocks are formed, the three kinds of rocks, and the difference between rocks and minerals. Learn how rocks and minerals are used in art, architecture, industry, and science. Then journey to the oceans to explore seashells and the amazing animals that once inhabited them. Packed with more than 200 stunning photos, including closeups of each specimen, this colorful book showcases breathtaking natural sites such as the Giant’s Causeway and human-built structures such as the Great Wall of China.

Filled with fun facts and designed for interactive learning, the Little Kids First Big Book of Rocks, Minerals, and Shells is sure to become a favorite with young rock and shell collectors and their parents!

From Me:

As with any National Geographic Kids book there are many beautiful photographs from all over the world. This book has lessons in science, geography and history in it. The reader can explore rocks, minerals and shells from all over the world and see how they have been used throughout history. Whether you are trying to learn more about rocks, minerals and shells or just want to see if you can figure out what type of rock, mineral or shell you found this book is for you.

I love the details in the book and how they are written for the age group. I always love how National Geographic Kids ties the science with social studies. So gather your rocks, shells, and minerals and have your kids learn about them with this book.

Now besides looking at your own collection there are some fun crafts you can do with this book. I made some more rock and shell pictures. I used wooden frames from Michaels and craft glue with some of the rocks and shells in our collection.

I mad this rock bird and I made a rock and shell butterfly. 

You can see some of my other rock and shell art work from Crafty Sundays, as well as some we have made in the past rock art and shell art. We have also made shell frames and shell and rock treasure boxes. We also reviewed another book about rocks and shells recently. I hope you will check out this book and get creative with your kids!