Utterly Amazing Earth

The Utterly Amazing series expands with this light overview of Earth’s geology and weather, which also touches on the planet’s history and living creatures. Jerram, a geologist, writes concisely and clearly (“Volcanoes are holes in the Earth’s surface where magma—fiery liquid rock from deep underground—erupts out”), and flaps, wheels, pop-ups, and other interactive elements help explain the concepts discussed. A pull tab lets readers participate in the eruption of a volcano, a large flap reveals the aftereffects of an earthquake on a city, and a wheel highlights the transformation of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks as part of the rock cycle. Numerous photographs and digital graphics create a highly visual presentation, and related experiments and activities (such as starting a rock collection, making a sundial, and seeing how a miniature iceberg behaves) allow children to explore the topics on a backyard-friendly level. Ages 7–9. (Mar.)