The sand on a beach feels soft beneath your bare feet, but take a close-up look at the sand under a microscope and you'll soon see that each grain of sand is a tiny piece of solid rock. Inside this book, readers will find a clear, accessible, step-by-step explanation of how weathering and erosion create sand. They will also learn how rocky cliffs are eroded by the ocean to form sand as well as discover how rocks, thousands of miles from a beach, can be worn away into sand that is carried by rivers into the ocean and onto beaches. Filled with information perfectly suited to the abilities and interests of an early elementary audience, this colorful, fact-filled volume gives readers a chance not only to learn, but also to develop their powers of observation and critical thinking. From stunning photographs to high-interest text, this book makes exploring the topic of weathering and erosion a lively, engaging experience.