I, Rock: A Geology Tale

Gr 1-4–Nonfiction cloaked in fiction, geology and the rock cycle are illustrated by a jovial cartoon rock with stick figure limbs as it delves into its rich four-billion-year-old story. It’s Senior Citizens Interviews Day in Luis’s classroom, and before he can share his elder stories, a quirky rock speaks out from the bottom of his shoe to share its history. Hand-drawn art features children with a variety of skin tones, although it’s the rock that takes center stage. Cartoonish expressions and bright colors adorn its face and the faces of other key figures, such as specific minerals, the Earth, volcanoes, mountains, and clouds. Clear text and the use of panels, white space, and fun-fact inserts are elegantly arranged to support the story and express facts. Through first-person narration and anthropomorphic characters, Slivensky and Stilwell insert human interest, humor, and connection. The incorporation of onomatopoeia and repetition emphasizes the rock cycle experience and reinforces scientific vocabulary. Back matter includes more geology facts, a pop quiz, and a list of sources. Most vocabulary is explained in context.