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Wednesday, July 8, 2015

Nonfiction Picture Book Wednesday-Dirtmeister's Nitty Gritty Planet Earth by Steve Tomecek


My Friend Alyson Beecher at Kid Lit Frenzy hosts weekly link up to share Nonfiction Picture Books. Please visit her amazing website.


Ok, so technically this is not a picture book, but I thought I would still share it here because it is amazing!
by Steve Tomecek
Illustrated by Fred Harper
Published June, 2015 by National Geographic Children's Books
Nonfiction
128 pages

Goodreads Summary
Come and explore the world under your feet with the Dirtmeister and friends! Part graphic novel, part fun guidebook, this very cool, rocky journey introduces both eager and reluctant readers to the basic geologic processes that shape our Earth. Clear and concise explanations of the various geologic processes reveal the comprehensive science behind each fascinating topic. Fun facts and simple DIY experiments reinforce the concepts while short biographies of important scientists inspire future geo-scientists.

My Thoughts
This book was written by geologist Steve Tomecek (aka The Dirtmeister). First of all, I learned a TON! Did you know that after studying the way our tectonic plates move, scientists believe that the ocean will eventually flow through the middle of Africa millions of years from now (pg 65)? Or that there are glaciers at the top of Mt. Kilmanjaro even though it is near the equator (pg 77)? Crazy right? 
This book is a one-stop resource for anything you need or want to know about the Earth. The information is presented in digestible pieces with accompanying visuals and extra tidbits of info snuck in. There are mini scientist bios and invitations to "try this" where kids can do a project at home to help further their understanding of the concept. Each chapter starts with a two page cartoon that will absolutely hook kids (and adults). The photos, diagrams, maps and charts are incredible and work with the text beautifully. Visit this site at DOGObooks to take a look inside this beautiful book. 

Dirtmeister's Nitty Gritty Planet Earth is a must-have resource for any grade 3+ classroom. 

What others are saying about Dirtmeister's Nitty Gritty Planet Earth.
New York Journal of Books

7 comments:

  1. This looks like a book some of my students last year would have been all over! I am going to have to recommend it to the teacher they will have next year. I was just thinking yesterday about nonfiction themes I would like to see more of and theses topics - the Earth, dirt, etc were topics I was thinking about!

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  2. Thanks for sharing a non-nfpb. I do appreciate finding books that are a step up from them. National Geographic seems to write good early chapter nf's!

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  3. I think geology is so complex, it's nice to know a book that covers many of its aspects for kids, Gigi. Thanks very much!

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  4. Oh I love these kinds of books. I learn so much from them. Thanks for sharing them.

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  5. We are so happy you wrote about this book! Love that it is part graphic novel and part guide book. Kids are going to love this - Thank you

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  6. I have not heard of this one! Sounds like one I want to check out. I think we have grade levels that study earth's landforms, this might be a fun, and different, resource!

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  7. I really have to explore those National Geographic titles more - sounds fun! :)

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