Geology Lab for Kids: 52 Projects to Explore Rocks, Gems, Geodes, Crystals, Fossils, and Other Wonders of the Earth’s Surface

This companion to Outdoor Science Lab for Kids and Astronomy Lab for Kids is structured around more than 50 experiments. Divided into 12 thematic units, the labs include several ways of growing crystals, scratching various materials to test their hardness, creating fossil-like molds and impressions, and cooking up several edible experiments (a molten cake to study how lava cools, and a soufflé to suggest the caldera that forms after a volcanic eruption). Photographs, clear instructions, and safety tips walk readers through the brief projects, and sidebars titled “The Science Behind the Fun” thoroughly explore the geological underpinnings of each one. It’s a smart, hands-on way for kids to get a better understanding of the rock cycle, volcanism, and the formation and breakdown of rocks and minerals. Ages 6–12. (July)