How Oil Forms

Gr 2-4–Each title in the “Scientific American Investigates Earth’s Resources” series explores a specific natural resource, such as oil, gems, or coal, and explains how it is formed. The layout alternates between a full page of text and a page with a full-color photo or illustration. Text boxes add visual interest and quick facts that help break up the longer text. While the main text is written in full paragraphs, the concepts are kept simple, avoiding over-explanations. This approach supports younger readers but may leave them wanting more context and clarification. For example, this title on oil includes an illustration to explain greenhouse gases but lacks enough supporting text to fully develop the idea. Interior graphics are colorful and modern, but the book covers feel dated, featuring a plain background and a dull-colored rectangular photo of the resource. Each volume includes a table of contents, glossary, further reading section, and index.