Featured in The Teaching Librarian: Rock-Solid Reads That Demystify Mining for Today’s Students

In the latest edition of The Teaching Librarian - the magazine of the Ontario School Library Association - our President, Joanne Sallay, contributes an insightful article titled "The Buzz: Rock-Solid Reads to Demystify the World of Mining." In this issue, Joanne takes a unique approach to the theme Mystery @ Your Library by stepping away from fictional mysteries and instead exploring how educators can help unravel real-world mysteries across subjects and industries—particularly the often-overlooked world of the mining industry. Drawing on her firsthand experience from a recent educator tour of IAMGOLD’s Côté Gold Mine in Gogama, Ontario, she shares how school library professionals can help students discover exciting career pathways in mining and STEM fields. Don’t miss her curated selection of books designed to spark curiosity and open the door to a world of knowledge—an engaging resource not only for classrooms but also for families looking to expand their reading material at home.

Article as seen in January 2025 issue - Mystery @ Your Library:

The theme of this issue is Mystery @ Your Library, and while there are countless captivating reads in this genre for students, I’m taking a different approach for this column. As someone who loves a good Agatha Christie-inspired mystery, I’m stepping away from the world of fictional whodunits to explore how we can “demystify” real-world subjects that students often know little about. As the President & CEO of Teachers on Call, an in-person and online tutoring company, I had the unique learning opportunity to visit Gogama, Ontario, this summer, where I joined the Mineral Resources & Mining Education Tour with Mining Matters, the Canadian Ecology Centre and the Ontario Mining Association. My goal was to gather valuable insights about mining—an industry that remains a mystery to many students and adults alike—and share them with educators to help open up new career pathways.

Tools of the Trade: Using Books to Demystify Mining

Just as a good book can unlock the secrets of a gripping mystery, teachers and librarians play a vital role in bringing the hidden world of careers to life for young learners, helping them explore and thrive in diverse fields. Every professional relies on their tools, and for teachers and teacher librarians, one of the best tools available are books. I had the good fortune to bring back a 'Fool's Gold' rock from the mining tour, which I learned from books is actually called pyrite and contains absolutely no gold! Reading from the pages of knowledgeable books can help "demystify" these topics, offering teachers a way to bring complex subjects to life and ignite curiosity in young learners. For this reason, here are some book considerations to help demystify the mining industry, STEM fields, and skilled trades for students. Read on!

Here’s a selection of both fiction and non-fiction titles, blending classic works and newer releases, to spark interest in geology, earth sciences, and the natural world in your school library.

Jennifer Allison from JShutter Photography

All the Rocks We Love
Written by Lisa Varchol Perron and Taylor Perron, Illustrated by David Scheirer
Publisher: Penguin Young Readers Group (July 2024)

ISBN: 9780593662151
For ages: 3 - 6

This book is a great introduction to rocks for little learners, offering a fun and engaging way to explore geology. Written by Lisa Varchol Perron, author of several children's books including Tell Me About Space, Tell Me About Oceans, and Patterns Everywhere, and Taylor Perron, a professor of geology at MIT, the story brings the wonders of the Earth's natural treasures to life. At the end of the book, there’s additional information for those interested in diving deeper into rocks, geology, and ecology.

An Anthology of Rocks and Minerals: A Collection of Rocks, Minerals, and Gems from Around the World
Written by Devin Dennie
Publisher: DK (Oct 2024)

ISBN: 9780593846148
For ages: 6 - 9

Calling all aspiring geologists and gemologists—this book is perfect for students curious about rocks, minerals, and gems from around the world! It provides a fantastic introduction to over 100 unique specimens and even includes a handy blue ribbon to keep your place as you explore each one.

Ana’s Adventure at the Mine: The Secret of La Esperanza
Written by Ana Gabriela Juárez
Publisher: Independently published (September 2023)

ISBN: 9798861443777 
For ages: 8 - 13

This Amazon bestseller connects to the theme Mystery @ Your Library with a magical mining adventure written by Toronto based mining professional and environmental consultant, Ana Gabriela Juárez, named one of the Top 100 Most Inspirational Women in Mining globally. In her debut title, Ana and her friends discover a hidden mining valley, where they learn to believe in themselves, overcome obstacles, and uncover the true strength within. Guided by friendship and teamwork, they seek the most precious gem of all: the Esperanza emerald. As an educational bonus, the book includes an Augmented Reality component, allowing readers to scan a QR code and explore the mine alongside Ana and her friends.

Ana’s Adventure at the Mine: Enigmas Buried in History
Written by Ana Gabriela Juárez
Publisher: Independently published (September 2024)

ISBN: 9798338895559
For ages: 8 - 13

Join Ana and her friends in the second book of this mining adventurous series as they uncover the mysteries of mining throughout history, from the ancient mines of Nubia to the medieval tunnels of Europe. Through challenges and discoveries, they learn how courage and friendship can reveal the wonders of mining and change the course of history. Each chapter presents riddles and mysteries for only the sharpest and most daring to solve. Each chapter presents riddles and mysteries for students to solve.

Rock & Gem Smithsonian: The Definitive Guide to Rocks, Minerals, Gems and Fossils
Publisher: DK; New edition (June 2023)

ISBN: 9780744088168
For ages: 10 - 16

This primer is perfect for students looking to dive deeper into earth science. Created in association with the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC, the world’s largest museum complex, this guide provides accurate and comprehensive coverage of over 450 specimens, including rocks, minerals, crystals, gems, and fossils. Feature panels on folklore, historical artifacts, and famous gems add fascinating context, and there’s even guidance on collecting and displaying specimens.

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Teacher librarians play a unique role in shaping the next generation, introducing students to diverse books that demystify the world around them and open their eyes to exciting academic and career pathways. Your library can be their gateway to a world of possibilities, inspiring curiosity and a sense of adventure they’ll carry with them into the future.

A Complete Reading List from Mining Matters      

1) UNDERGROUND! My Mining Adventure

2) The Earth Book for Kids: An Introduction to Earth Science    

3) Geology Activity Book for Kids: Hands-On Fun Exploring Rocks, Minerals, and the Earth’s Surface     

Mining Matters is a national charitable organization dedicated to supporting students and educators to develop knowledge and awareness of Canada’s geology and mineral resources. They have prepared this reading list for educators.

UNDERGROUND! My Mining Adventure
By Theresa Nyabeze (Author), Misheck Matambanadzo (Illustrator) (2016)

Every chance she can, Theresa Nyabeze, a Laurentian University graduate and Professional Mining Engineer in Sudbury, Ontario, promotes her profession, the mining industry, diversity in the workplace, and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) careers. She does it all with her book UNDERGROUND! My Mining Adventure, an engaging and informative introduction to mining underground, geared for children. In UNDERGROUND! My Mining Adventure, young Maiya gets one of her heart’s desires for her birthday: to go down into the mine where her mother works. But Maiya’s expectations and her experiences turn out to be quite different.

Spenser and the Rocks
By Lawrence F. Lowery (Author), June Goldsborough (Illustrator) (2013)

Given the differences in colours, sizes, shapes, and textures, there is much to learn about rocks. Young Spenser develops a growing fascination with rocks and minerals and has many questions as he sorts and re-sorts his rock collection. For Spenser—as well as young readers—the experience is an engaging introduction to scientific procedures such as classification and research. Spenser and the Rocks is part of the I Wonder Why book series, written to ignite the curiosity of children in grades K to 6, while encouraging them to become avid readers. These books explore the marvels of geology, land forms, weather, environments, and other phenomena related to science and nature. Included in each volume is a Parent/Teacher Handbook with coordinating activities. 

The Mineral Maniacs and the Magic Hardhat
By Jules Miles (Author), Meg Whalen (Illustrator) (2017)

The Mineral Maniacs and the Magic Hardhat is the first in a children’s book series exploring the exciting and educational world of mining, geology, and engineering. Fifth-grade pranksters Marabel, Victor, and Herbie are familiar with being in detention. One day, under the not-so-watchful eye of science teacher Ms. Pebbles, they discover a magical hardhat that leads them on an important mission. A mystery rock or mineral is about to be stolen, and it’s up to the maniacs to use their unique gifts to identify the mineral before it’s taken from the world forever. This fun and educational series will excite even the youngest readers and will inspire future generations of innovators, educators, and engineers to be forces of positive change in the world. BONUS: Includes a supplemental section for students and educators alike about how the mineral is formed, mined, processed, and used in our everyday lives. 

Understanding the Gem Minerals: A Practical Guide
By William Revell Phillips, James Shigley (2016)

Gemstones have fascinated people for thousands of years because of their beauty, rarity, and monetary value. However, a true understanding of gemstones and their properties has only come about in the past two centuries, resulting from the developing sciences of geology and mineralogy and an increasing need to distinguish natural gemstones from those that are treated or grown in the laboratory. Numerous books describe minerals, many report on the distinctive properties of gemstones, but almost none present a detailed mineralogical description of the gem minerals along with clearly explained basic concepts of interest from both mineralogy and geology. This book bridges this gap. 

Geology of Mineral Resources
By Michel Jébrak and Éric Marcoux (2015)

Metallogeny, the study of mineral deposit genesis, is a science that originated in France in the early 20th century. Written by two experts in the field, this book provides an updated review of knowledge, focusing on its practical application in mineral exploration. Each environment is described in terms of its geology and its deposit types, along with its economics, its genesis, and relevant exploration techniques.

Canada Rocks: The Geologic Journey 2nd Edition
by Nick Eyles and Andrew Miall (2018)

Canada Rocks is the fascinating story of how the Canadian landmass evolved—piece by piece—from a long-lost continent some four billion years ago into one of the most spectacular and geologically significant areas on Earth. Canada Rocks is the first book to present the entire sweep of Canadian geology to the general reader. This second edition contains updated and reassessed content, with major updates to chapters on plate tectonics, the formation of eastern Canada, and Canada’s glacial heritage. It also contains new insights and material on climate change. The book also showcases many sites that are easily accessible from highways, making it an invaluable field guide for exploring our country.

Sedimentary Rocks
by Rebecca Pettiford (Author) (2018)

Readers will learn about the layers of sediment that compress and form sedimentary rocks. Vibrant, full-colour photos and carefully leveled text will engage readers as they learn more about the characteristics of sedimentary rocks and where on Earth they are found.

STEM Starters for Kids Geology Activity Book
by Jenny Jacoby (Author), Vicky Barker (Illustrator) (2019)

Little learners can learn about Earth and its life recorded in rocks by reading the simple explanations and doing the illustrated activities on each page. Children can experience the great gift of geology and begin a lifelong passion for STEM subjects.

Why Do Tectonic Plates Crash and Slip?
Children’s Earth Sciences Books by Baby Professor (2017)

The outermost part of Earth’s structure is divided into tectonic plates, which affect everything on land and sea. When they crash, new mountains are formed. When they slip, valleys are found. And when all these happen, earthquakes shake cities and towns. Understanding fundamental information about tectonic plates will make it easier for children’s knowledge on geology to grow.

Geology Lab for Kids: 52 Projects to Explore Rocks, Gems, Geodes, Crystals, Fossils, and Other Wonders of the Earth’s Surface
by Garret Romaine (Author) (2017)

Geology Lab for Kids features 52 simple, inexpensive, and fun experiments that explore the Earth’s surface, structure, and processes. This family-friendly guide explores the wonders of geology, such as the formation of crystals and fossils, the layers of the Earth’s crust, and how water shapes mountains, valleys, and canyons. There is no excuse for boredom with a year’s worth of captivating STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) activities.

Rock Collecting for Kids: An Introduction to Geology
by Dan R. Lynch (Author) (2018)

Experience the excitement of finding, collecting, and identifying rocks and minerals with this children’s introduction to our amazing Earth. The book includes geology basics, an identification guide for 75 types of common and collectible rocks and minerals, and a “how to” section on what to look for, where to look, what to bring, and safety considerations.

Old Rock (is NOT Boring)
by Deb Pilutti (Author/Illustrator) (2020) 

This book, written for children ages 4 to 8, tells geological stories through the character “Old Rock” and his friends in the forest. The story presents many geological themes including geologic time, volcanism, glacial processes, mass wasting, and paleobiology. This is a wonderful story to read aloud and includes delightful illustrations. 

Water Is Water: A Book About the Water Cycle
by Miranda Paul (Author), Jason Chin (Illustrator) (2015) 

Written for students in grades 1 and 2, this wonderfully illustrated book brings the water cycle to life through the story of a group of children, moving from one “phase” of water to another. The back matter includes the “More About Water” section where teachers will find detailed information about water and the water cycle.  

Rock Collecting for Kids: An Introduction to Geology
by Dan Lynch (2018)

This book provides an excellent introduction to the science of geology, including foundational knowledge about important concepts such as where rocks originate and how the Earth’s surface changes over time. It also includes an identification guide with full-colour photographs, ID tips for 75 common rocks and minerals, and a “how to” section that outlines recommended practices for collecting minerals and rocks in the field.  

Fossils for Kids: An Introduction to Paleontology
by Dan Lynch (2020)

This book provides an excellent introduction to fossils and the science of paleontology. It includes information about how fossils form and a guide for identifying common and collectible invertebrate fossils.

Canada Close Up: Canadian Rocks and Minerals Paperback
by Joanne Richter (2007)

Brought to you by Scholastic Canada, this book for students ages 7 to 9, presents foundational Earth science information important for the learners aspiring to collect minerals and rocks and includes interesting facts about Canadian Rocks and Minerals.

Go! Field Guide: Rocks and Minerals
Scholastic Canada (2019)

The Go! Field Guide: Rocks and Minerals is aimed towards students ages 8 to 12. The pocket-sized book informs readers about rocks and minerals they might find in North America, helping them to identify them and test their physical properties.

Rocks & Minerals Activity Book
by Jonah Jacobson (2021)

The Rocks & Minerals Activity Book, introduces learners ages 5 to 10 to geology, including common rocks and minerals. The book’s colouring pages and activities reinforce the information that is presented in interesting and creative ways. Readers can also learn how to start their own rock collection.

The Earth Book for Kids: An Introduction to Earth Science
by Dan Lynch (2022)

For ages 6 to 12, this book introduces learners to the Earth’s composition, rock types and their formation, landforms, natural disasters, and other Earth science related topics. As an added bonus, 16 fun and simple activities teach how crystals grow, how caves form, and how the Earth works. Build a molecule, make sandstone, and more.

Geology Activity Book for Kids: Hands-On Fun Exploring Rocks, Minerals, and the Earth’s Surface
by Meghan Vestal (2022)

This book, aimed toward early learners ages 5 to 7, teaches about planet Earth through a series of 19 geological topics that feature hands-on experiments, activities, and fascinating facts.

We Are Water Protectors
by Carole Lindstrom (2020)

For ages 2 to 8, this book is written from the perspective of a young Indigenous girl whose community is threatened by a black snake foretold to come and poison the land. Winner of the 2021 Caldecott Medal, this beautifully illustrated story presents an Indigenous perspective, issuing a cry to protect the Earth’s water from harm and corruption.

I’m Trying to Love Rocks
by Bethany Barton (2020)

In a dialogue between the author and the main character, a young geology enthusiast, Bethany Barton discusses the relevance of geology. Geared for ages 4 to 8, the book touches on rock type, rock cycle, plate tectonics, natural disasters, and minerals, and offers a fun way to introduce children to Earth science topics and the stories
rocks have to tell.

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Joanne's experience on the educator mining tour in Gogama, Ontario, highlights the exciting potential for students to explore careers in mining and STEM fields, while also shedding light on the real-world mysteries of geology and earth sciences. Her firsthand account of the tour, combined with the valuable books shared in her article, underscores the importance of exposing students to these fascinating subjects. Educators play a pivotal role in guiding students through these learning adventures, using books to demystify complex topics and ignite curiosity. By fostering a love for science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), educators can inspire the next generation of innovators, thinkers, and explorers who will shape the future of these dynamic industries. For more reading inspiration, check out our Hooked on Books series.