Non-fiction reading is not usually my thing. However, I like random facts and trivia books, and occasionally I find a subject book that either I am into the subject and therefore, can add to my knowledge, or find a new/newer subject I want to learn something new about. And the two below titles fit those bills (one for facts, one for a subject).
I am starting this review with the confession of I have not finished the National Geographic Kids Weird But True Know-It-All: Rocks & Minerals book. However, I have read enough by reading a few chapters, and skipping ahead, to know that this is a fun, but academic book for those interested in Rocks & Minerals. It is for at least ages eight and up, due to the type of information given and the density of the pages. However, I would say the sweet spot is aged 10 to 14. (But if you’re an adult looking to have an introduction, this is good, too). It is not an easy read for someone not interested in the subject, or science in general. However, there are some “side panels” that give quick, and fun, facts on the subject that allow you a break from the technical “stuff.” The reader learns about people and places as well as rocks this way. Michael Burgan collected information that helps you start your own knowledge or keep it going. Technical terms are used, but also there are definitions. The photographs are what you’d expect from National Geographic, bold and clear. And the people mentioned are not just “boring old adults” but there are stories about kids the readers ages that have helped with the science of rocks.
I am a fan of random facts, and Amazing Facts Every 9-Year-Old Needs to Know has just that. These are random facts that are fun to know, and sometimes ones you did not expect. These facts that Catherine Brereton compiled, and Chris Dickason has illustrated, are funny, interesting, and clever. That is, until the last one. Then it is a bit “oogy” and feels out of place. It felt like the creators wanted a “shock” factor. Thankfully it was not illustrated (and I won’t say what it was as it could be sensitive). Had it been in the middle perhaps it would have hit me less intensely. Otherwise, I enjoy this series (even though as of Feb 2023 I’ve only read two of them). I like how these books are short with a few facts (sometimes related, sometimes not related, and sometimes side related) with some basic black and white illustrations on each page. You can read in one sitting or just a few at a time (I recommend a few at a time). And of course, the title gives the age range, but a smart 8-year-old or a lower 10-year-old will be fine. (Not to mention we adults who are kids at heart).
