Dan R. Lynch

The one quibble I have with this book is the location of where certain rocks and minerals can be found. There are quite a few that are only listed as being found in the Upper and northern Lower Peninsulas, but I have found specimens in southeastern Michigan too (including pudding stones, granite, and unakite.) So the information is quite good, but don't be surprised if something turns up in an unexpected spot!

Another book read that isn't particularly literature. This one, however, is an excellent field guide, with clear pictures of what particularly fine samples look like. The wide majority are only found in the western UP where there is a long history of volcanics, which brings all sorts of fairly rare or at least unusual minerals to the surface. There is one particular vein of granite that has imbedded greenish topaz. It is very specific and singular apparently. There is even a page on 'Junk', show more which is man made artifacts rolled around on beaches. I wouldn't mind finding a balled up glob of what was once a beer can. There is a bit of humor here and there with lines like, 'Most rock collectors actually would like a lump of coal for Christmas.' There are several pages of different types of agates and pictures of extremely rare crystals. As opposed to most guidebooks, the photographs actually look like something you might find in the field, albeit particularly nice samples, as opposed to a museum or rock shop. There is also an introductory section with everything broken down into color. If it is red, try..., etc., with warnings of radioactive or lead/arsenic/asbestos bearing rocks. Also, the authors repeatedly explain terms each time they come up, like cleavage or tabular or striated. Should be handy, now to find out how comprehensive it is. show less

A nice, brief, introduction to rock identification of common rocks likely to be found on the Pacific Coast. Easy to follow with good photographs.

Have you ever wondered about the Earth, how it was formed, what is under the dirt? Are you fascinated by rocks and minerals, mountains and rivers? This book takes you into the earth and provides hands on activities to help you better understand our amazing planet.
The author provides simple fact filled text and full color pictures, diagrams and drawings to catch the readers attention. The information is up to date and easy to locate with the index, titles and subtitles. The author provides, show more charts, diagrams and a glossary to further enhance learning. There are also easy to follow directions for several activities to reinforce the text. Young readers in the 3rd through 5th grades who have an interest in geoscience or who need to create a research project will find this book helpful and easy to follow. show less