ULTIMATE ROCKOPEDIA

Scattering sheaves of high-quality photos, a geologist digs into the wonderful world of rocks.

Styling himself “The Dirtmeister,” Tomecek, with the assistance of geology educator Lucarelli, enthusiastically squires readers through a tour of geology and geophysical processes, explaining how to understand what rocks communicate about our planet’s history, composition, and surface features. Pausing for closer looks at select minerals and phenomena as he goes, he covers basic topics, from the rock cycle and plate tectonics to how we use rock and mineral resources—from marble and granite to concrete and fossil fuels—and closes by questioning a working geologist about her interests and experiences. All of this is lit up by sharp, intensely hued images ranging from large-scale natural vistas and digital cutaways to close-ups of intricate crystals, glittering gems, and gem-studded bling, fossils, and mineral specimens. Suggestions that the use of some resources might be problematic get uneven play; the author mentions the environmental effects of fossil fuel use but not of strip mining and likewise doesn’t acknowledge the horrific human cost of blood diamonds. The eye-catching visuals draw in readers, and the easy-to-navigate layout makes it suitable for casual browsers as well as those looking for a more in-depth reading experience.

Leaves a few tailings but mines its vast topic expertly.