Review Detail

Along the Florida shores hides the alphabet.

Over many years, Leslie McGuirk has discovered fossiliferous sandstone in the shapes of letters of the alphabet. But not only has McGuirk collected rocks of each letter, she’s also found rocks that represent objects beginning with each letter (“‘B’ is for ‘bird.’”) From faces to igloos to numbers, unusual representations emerge. Some, like the rock representing “X,” require a closer look, but observant readers are rewarded with joyful “A-ha!” moments.

This book includes minimal additions to the illustrations (for example, a knife and plate are added to the picture of toast), but this does not detract from the awe created by these special stones. These additions simply enhance the illustrations. The author’s note at the end, titled “Rock Talk,” details her experiences with the rocks and a brief paragraph on the copyright page explains about the rocks’ makeup and how they form.

This surprising book will delight and even amaze readers. If Rocks Could Sing by Leslie McGuirk encourages seeing nature’s creations with fresh eyes. A book to stir the imagination.