GEOLOGY IS A PIECE OF CAKE

A high-calorie introduction to rocks, minerals, geological processes, plate tectonics, fossils, the reason for seasons, and more.

Coppens dishes up compact but flavorful slices of science framed as questions and answers—covering topics including the types of fossils, the difference between rocks and minerals, weathering and erosion, continental drift, our planet’s inner structure, and the origin of the moon. But throughout, the large, red central question is seldom more than a page turn away: “How does this relate to cake?” The answers, often presented in full recipes, are as illuminating as they are delicious. Young researchers can, for instance, not only better understand the Mohs hardness scale by comparing the sliceability of angel food cake and fruitcake, but actually observe chocolate “magma” flow and harden just like igneous rock from the core of an “Extrusive Molten Lava Cake,” among other tasty “experiments.” As a final challenge, round “cake pops” painted with blue and green candy melt can be set up around a yellow “sun”…if they last long enough. Many of the color photos (many supplied by the author, and the rest from stock libraries) are on the small side, the source list at the end shows a heavy reliance on Wikipedia articles, and the recipes all require significant tooth-brushing afterward. Still, directions are clear (and note where adult help is required), the earth science information is solid, and the whole premise hangs together beautifully.

A truly delicious, hands-on way to study science in action.