Under Michigan: The Story of Michigan's Rocks and Fossils

Great Lakes Books Series

by Charles Ferguson Barker

Most people recognize Michigan by its mitten-shaped Lower Peninsula and the Great Lakes embracing the state. Underneath the earth's surface, however, is equally distinctive evidence of an exciting history. Michigan rests on sedimentary rocks that reach down into the earth's crust more than fourteen thousand feet―a depth three-and-a-half times deeper than the Grand Canyon. Within these layers of rock rest all sorts of ancient fossils and minerals that date back to the eras when tropical seas spread across Michigan and hot volcanoes flung molten rock into its skies―long before mile-thick glaciers bulldozed over Michigan and plowed through ancient river valleys to form the Great Lakes.

Under Michigan is the first book for young readers about the geologic history of the state and the structure scientists call the Michigan Basin. A fun and educational journey, Under Michigan explores Earth's geological past, taking readers far below the familiar sights of Michigan and nearby places to explain the creation of minerals and fossils and show where they can be found in the varying layers of rock. Readers will learn about the hard rock formations surrounding Michigan and also discover the tall mountain ridges hidden at the bottom of the Great Lakes. With beautiful illustrations by author Charles Ferguson Barker, a glossary of scientific terms, and charming page to keep field notes, Under Michigan is a wonderful resource for young explorers to use at home, in school, or on a trip across Michigan.

Genres: Science, Nonfiction, Picture Books

56 pages, Hardcover

First published October 21, 2005

Reviews

[Cindi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had lots of good information and seemed just right for a beginner. It's a children's book, but is acting as a primer for me so I can delve deeper into the geology of Michigan. I found that online resources I was finding were too complex for me and went beyond the geology vocabulary I now have. I hope to expand that vocabulary slowly and this book definitely helped with that. The crayon drawings are nice, but leave the ideas in my head less distinct than if I had seen real pictures or more complex drawings.

[Scott Kelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

My son and I read this book together. It was interesting for him to learn about how Michigan was created and to know more information about rocks and found in our favorite places in Michigan.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting. Photos and maps would make it a 5.

[Abra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very informative read. I would highly recommend this to anyone with an interest in geology and especially those who live in Michigan. I suggest it for ages 8 and up.

[jjfoerch · Rating 3 out of 5]

nice illustrations. the most basic concepts of michigan geology covered in clear language.