National Geographic Pocket Guide to Rocks and Minerals of North America

A handy beginner's field guide to geology, identifying 160 minerals, rocks, fossils, and geological formations.

With photos, fact boxes, and descriptive text for each item, plus a useful introduction to geology basics.

Compact, comprehensive, and easy to use, this basic field guide to geology helps identify the rocks, minerals, fossils, and land formations most likely to be found in North America.

With this book, amateur rockhounds learn the basics: key properties and classifications used to identify rocks and minerals, plus interesting facts and stories about how they formed and have been used by humans through time. Color photographs, illuminating infographics, and detailed descriptions help distinguish each geological treasure.

All 160 entries—44 rocks, 44 minerals, 20 fossils, and 52 landforms—include key identification points, photographs, and illustrations, making his guide the perfect starting point for anyone, young or old, interested in the study of rocks and geology.

From familiar rocks and minerals like granite and agate to precious metals like silver and gold, from petrified wood and shark teeth to weathered arches and cinder cones, this little book offers a wealth of geological information in a convenient package. Tuck it into a pocket on the trail or browse through it at home: Either way, it will satisfy the eager rock collector or the science buff just wanting to learn more.

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Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs