Under Michigan : The Story of Michigan's Rocks and Fossils (Great Lakes Books Series)

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 geologic history. The center of 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 more than the layers of rock in 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 - all this long before mile-thick glaciers buildozed 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 to explain the creation of the varying layers of rocks and fossils and show where they can be found. Readers will learn about the hard rock formations that define Michiga