What a Rock Can Reveal

Award-winning science writer and geologist Maya Wei-Haas introduces young readers to the fascinating world of rocks through the art of observation. Starting with a friendly question-and-answer format, she explores the diversity of rocks and minerals and how a rock’s shape, color, or texture help to tell the stories of how it was formed, where it comes from, and the incredible journeys it has had. This hands-on introduction reveals how rocks are time capsules of our planet’s past, recording the thrilling events that once built Earth’s incredible geology.

The second in a series of visually stunning, scientifically engaging books that explore the natural world through everyday objects found in nature, this book follows on from the global children’s bestseller, What a Shell Can Tell. The text and vibrant illustrations expand on a child’s natural instinct to collect things, nurturing their interest and curiosity by giving them simple observation skills that will help them to explore the connections between objects found in nature, the wider environment, and Earth’s history.

Ages 6-9

‘Irrepressible excitement pervades this journey through the mysteries of geology, encouraging readers to engage with the stories even the simplest pebble might tell.’ – The Guardian

‘Uncovers the [wonders of] different rocks and minerals.’ – TIME for Kids

‘A beautifully illustrated introduction to geology.’ – GeekDad

‘Belongs to the group of information books which combines effectively written information with impressive creative work in a child-friendly and visually attractive style.’ – Armadillo

‘Colorful, engaging, informative, and a sure winner for children ages 6-9.’ – Imagination Soup

‘An interesting look at a fascinating subject.’ – Toronto.com

‘Learn all about where rocks come from and what makes each one unique.’ – Growing Book by Book

‘A well-done read … Of course, rock fans will enjoy this one, but it reaches beyond that to hit a larger span of interests.’ – Bookworm for Kids

‘Wei-Haas has done an excellent job balancing informative with accessible … A beloved book for budding geologists.’ – Cracking the Cover

‘Whether you’re a budding geologist or simply curious about our planet’s past, this book will rock your world.’ – Little Cub Literacy

‘Takes children beyond the surface … and invites them to learn and especially to appreciate the amazing story [of rocks].’ – A Book and a Hug

‘Substantial … Perfect for any home or school library.’ – Pragmatic Mom

‘An enthralling and exciting exploration of one of nature’s most marvelous wonders.’ – Olivia the Librarian

‘Children and teachers will thoroughly enjoy this well-organized, beautiful book.’ – School Library Journal

‘A mini museum of rocks and minerals in book form, exploring the colors, minerals, and formation of rocks – in all their glorious ubiquity.’ – Kids Book Recs

‘Each page is visually immersive and educational…An absolute must-have for families and schools, inspiring a love for science and nature in all its readers.’ – Inclusive Children’s Books   

Maya Wei-Haas is an award-winning science writer with a PhD in Earth Science. She was previously a staff reporter at National Geographic and an Assistant Editor of Science and Innovation at Smithsonian.com. Now she writes for a variety of publications, including The New York Times and Science. This is her first children’s book.

Sonia Pulido is an artist living in a seaside village close to Barcelona. The highly acclaimed What a Shell Can Tell, which she published in 2022 with Phaidon, was her first children’s book. Her illustrations have appeared in publications globally, including The New Yorker and The New York Times. 

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