Not Just Dirt! How Soil Supports Our Planet

Gr 3-6–This book invites readers to give dirt a chance; it’s not all as dry and dull as it may seem. Normandeau gives a solid overview of soil, its importance, and its possible future in another nature-focused title. The book starts out by explaining that life on Earth could not exist without soil. Additionally, soil gives us further benefits, such as minerals and even antibiotics. Some background knowledge on the natural world is assumed, on fungi, for example, making this a better pick for older elementary and middle school students. The strongest section outlines positive movements to improve future soil health such as bioremediation and regenerative farming practices. The photographs are engaging and fit well with the surrounding text, showing diverse people working with the soil in various ways.