Title: DIRTMEISTERS, Nitty Gritty Planet Earth
Written by: Geologist Steve Tomecek
Illustrated by: Fred Harper
Published by: National Geographic Kids, 2015
Themes/Topics: geology, the Earth, rocks, earthquakes, fossils, evolution, experiments, scientists
Suitable for ages: 8-14
Opening:
Dirtmeister is a nickname I picked up a long time ago because elf the type of work I do. You see, I’m a geologist, which means I spend a lot of my time digging in the dirt. Geologists are scientists that study the Earth and try to understand how it got here and how it changes.
Synopsis:
Geologist Steve Tomecek, aka The Dirtmeister, and his accomplice Digger (un unspecified ground welling critter, dig out all kinds of amazing information in this extensive book about geology. Topics include: the earth’s origins, minerals, plate tectonics, erosion, rocks, and biographies of well-known scientists. Each section starts with a fun little comic followed by several pages of description, graphics, and photographs discussing each topic. Humor abounds.
There are 128 pages packed with information, so I will just share a couple of my favorite factoids (I learned a ton!)
The natural chalk that people first used for drawing is a sedimentary rock made from tiny sea creatures called coccoliths.
Did you know there are over one millions earthquakes each year?
Why I like This Book:
- Love the biographies of famous men and women geologists.
- Love the Dirtmeister Nuggets – factoids in the sidebars.
- Love the suggested experiments.
- Love how colorful, comprehensive and entertaining this learning experience is and very accessible even for reluctant readers.
- The layout style will appeal to lovers of graphic novels.
Activities/Resources:
As they say, science is not a spectator sport, so have a go at the experiments in this book, But as the Dirtmeister advises, grab an adult to help so that you can blame them if anything goes wrong.
Review copy received from publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.
In my 20's, with only my guitar and a rucksack, I wandered the continents, immersing myself in the lives of some wonderful people, projects and stories, which changed the way I view my responsibility to others and this earth. Right now I'm a European transplant in the US who writes books for children and young adults. Stories can help us not only navigate our world but can connect us to others, and allow us to inspire and help each other. I believe that equity and empathy should be at the core of our all actions, words, and stories.
I am also a school librarian and I get a kick out of book-matchmaking! And I use the pronouns she/her.
I love geology and anything about the earth, including fossils, earthquakes and evolution. This sounds like an appealing book that is presented well for young readers. And, I like the Dirtmeister. Great choice!