GEOLOGY

With this app, Kids Discover continues to transform their print-magazine issues into multilayered informational experiences.

Right from the opening screen, this app grabs readers’ attention, panning across a striking photograph of glowing stalactites inside a cave, with eerie dripping sounds adding to the mystique. Full-color photographs, short videos, sound effects and excellent graphic design are used throughout to draw readers into short chapters examining different aspects of geology and the study of rocks. Beginning with a short look at “What is a rock?” chapters cover topics such as types of rocks, plate tectonics, the Earth’s four main layers and fossil formation. The text and many images were originally published in the Kids Discover magazine issue “Rocks” (April 2002), but several illustrations have been added, including an animated sequence showing the fossilization process. Interactive features pull readers in, encouraging them to tap icons to access photo captions, tilt the iPad to experience a 360-degree view of Stonehenge and take an interactive quiz. Unlike a more typical introduction that proceeds step by step, this informational app is better suited for browsing. The index is readily accessible from every page, helping readers jump from section to section. Websites and books for further reading are included in the backmatter for readers who want to dig deeper.

Clear science writing, captivating visuals and excellent design—a winning combination.