Soil

Children's Literature

A presumably "dry" subject is well-explained in this informative look at the importance of soil. Needed for our very existence, soil consists of bits of rock, leaves, twigs and all things that were once living. Many animals eat the grasses and plants that grow in soil, and humans, in turn, eat the plants and animals. Soil covers almost all of the land on earth and topsoil can take hundreds of years to form. It is important that we as humans protect soil and prevent it from becoming polluted and contaminated. Other topics such as types of soil are also discussed. A simple experiment is suggested at the end of the book, and a glossary, index and list of sources for additional information are provided. Part of the "Simply Science" series. 2001, Compass Point, $19.93. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Denise Daley