Dinosaur Mania    For many of us the fascination with dinosaurs goes back to our early childhood. One of the biggest attractions surely is the fact that they are no longer here and that creatures so fantastic and so incredible could suddenly and dramatically disappear. What happened to them all those millions of years ago is still an unknown. The public watches as the scientists battle it out, theories fly to and fro, and the mystery remains, as yet, still a mystery.    What is truly remarkable is the way in which paleontologists have been able to piece together so much information when they really have so little material to work with. It is believed that we have found only a small percentage of the total number of dinosaur species that existed. We have unearthed a thigh bone here, a skull, a tooth there. Often no more than half an animal of a single species defines it. And yet, with the patience that surely deserves half a dozen medals, these scientists and enthusiasts pick away at rock, peer down microscopes, trudge for miles in the baking heat, and come up with the most wonderful ideas and deductions. Due to their persistence and perseverance they have found eggs, nests, babies hatching from eggs, a dinosaur heart, dinosaur "poop", footprints, and all sorts of other treasures which they have used piece together the history, physiology, and even the behavior of the animals to which they belonged.    Nowadays we have the wonders of the computer age at our command; technology which would no doubt would have made the mouths of those early "Fossil Hunters" water if they could only have used it. In a very real sense we can now bring the dinosaurs to life on a computer screen, programming in equations and statistics taken from the data found in the fossil records.    In the books selected below we have chosen to highlight some of the best dinosaur books available. What we have looked for are books that show how complex and advanced dinosaurs were. They inhabited all the major regions on the earth and adapted to many different environments. We have tried to find the books which discuss the new theories and ideas and which have the enthusiasm and eagerness which surely was what drove the very first fossil hunters to ask the questions: "Why?" "How?" and, "I want to know more." Contributor: Marya Jansen-Gruber Book Reviewer and Writer mjansengruber@mindspring.com Reviews 100 Things You Should Know About Dinosaurs Steve Parker and Jim Flegg    This book presents 100 facts, and more, about those fascinating reptiles that lived between approximately 230 million and 65 million years ago. In a more or less chronological way, it describes the many different types of dinosaurs, including where and when they lived; what their teeth, claws, skulls, etc. have told scientists about them; and theories on how they became extinct. It also mentions other types of animals that predated the dinosaurs. Numerous illustrations bring these creatures to life and enable readers to quickly see the physical differences among them, although it is noted in the book that scientists don't know what colors they were. Small dinosaur-related cartoons introduce some humor throughout the book. Additional "dino" facts are presented in information boxes, quizzes, and hands-on art projects. A one-page index is also included. Unfortunately, no information is offered about the author's credentials or what information sources he used. With this caveat in mind, children who are reading up on dinosaurs, whether for a report or just for fun, may still enjoy this book. 2003 (orig. 2001), Mason Crest Publishers, $18.95. Ages 8 to 14. Reviewer: Robbin Gould (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-5908-4448-3 ISBN: 0-7607-5397-0 Allosaurus Daniel Cohen and Brent Breithaupt    Allosaurs was one of those fast-moving, probably highly intelligent, meat-eating dinosaurs, which some paleontologists believe hunted in a pack. The author of this little book tells us a good deal about this dinosaur's body, what it ate, and why it is no longer roaming the face of the earth. He also gives us a picture of Allosaurs' world--the other creatures that lived at that time and what the world might have looked like then. Daniel Cohen also tells us where fossils of these dinosaurs have been found. The information in this book is well presented and interesting, but the photographs and illustrations are unfortunately dull and average at best. At the end of the description about the Allosaurs there is a "Hands On" activity, which helps to explain how the concept of hunting in a pack was advantageous for this dinosaur group. This activity is followed by a glossary. At the back of the book the reader will find a bibliography and an index. In addition, the author explains how to use Fact Hound, a special Internet search engine. This book is one in the "Bridgestone Science Library." 2003, Bridgestone Books, $18.60. Ages 6 to 9. Reviewer: Marya Jansen-Gruber (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-7368-1618-6 Allosaurus Susan H. Gray    Part of the "Exploring Dinosaurs" series, this volume looks into the life and times of "Big Al", the Allosaurus, a large, strong, meat-eating dinosaur who lived about 156 million to 144 million years ago, during the time in our planet's history that scientists have named the Jurassic Period. This engaging nonfiction title tells young readers all about Allosaurus: why paleontologists named this extinct beast "different lizard," how they believe it spent its days, and what may have caused Allosaurus to die out. There is also a nifty section on dinosaur diseases that can be detected by scientific study of their fossilized bones. This sturdy hardcover book also includes information on books, websites and museums where young readers can obtain more details about Allosaurus, a glossary of scientific terms used in the text, comprehensive subject index and a geologic timeline that describes the climate, vegetation and animal life typical of each major prehistoric era. It is also illustrated by a wealth of photographs, diagrams and paintings that help us imagine the world in which Allosaurus existed so long ago. 2004, The Child's World, $27.07. Ages 6 to 10. Reviewer: Dianne Ochiltree (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-5929-6184-3 Ankylosaurus Daniel Cohen and Brent Breithaupt    Ankylosaurs was built rather like a tank, its body covered with thick plates. The author of this little book tells us a good deal about this dinosaur's body, what it ate, what preyed on it, and why it is no longer roaming the face of the earth. He also gives us a picture of Ankylosaurus's world--the other creatures that lived at that time and what the world might have looked like then. Daniel Cohen also tells us where fossils of these dinosaurs have been found and explains how paleontologists are studying these dinosaurs today. The information in this book is well presented and interesting, but the photographs and illustrations are unfortunately dull and average at best. At the end of the description about the Ankylosaurs there is a "Hands On" activity, which helps explain the concept of armored plating and how valuable it was to this dinosaur group. This activity is followed by a glossary. At the back of the book the reader will find a bibliography and an index. In addition, the author explains how to use Fact Hound, a special Internet search engine. This book is one in the "Bridgestone Science Library." 2003, Bridgestone Books, $18.60. Ages 6 to 9. Reviewer: Marya Jansen-Gruber (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-7368-1619-4 Ankylosaurus Susan H. Gray    This title in the "Exploring Dinosaurs" series gives young readers an up-close-and-personal look at Ankylosaurus, a giant reptile that lived from about 65 million to 72 million years ago during a time that scientists call the Cretaceous Period. Although Ankylosaurus was a peaceful plant-eater, it had an excellent coat of armor, made up of the many bony plates that covered its back. And if some creature picked a fight with the 4-to-6-ton Ankylosaurus, its mighty club of a tail sent them sailing with one swing! Besides the information about its diet and lifestyle, there is a fascinating section containing field notes from Barnum Brown, the paleontologist who first discovered the fossilized bones of what he named Ankylosaurus ("stiff lizard") in 1908. Also included are a glossary of scientific terms used in the text, subject index, annotated list of books, websites and museums where further information about Ankylosaurus can be found, plus a geologic timeline that describes the vegetation, animals and climate common to the earliest eras of our planet's history. The sturdy hardcover book is wonderfully illustrated throughout with historic photographs, pictures of actual fossils and vivid paintings that help us imagine how the Ankylosaurus looked in his world, so long ago. 2004, The Child's World, $27.07. Ages 6 to 10. Reviewer: Dianne Ochiltree (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-5929-6042-1 Ankylosaurus and other Armored Plant-eaters Virginia Schomp    Prehistoric World" is another new series of dinosaur books designed specifically for the school library trade. The five volumes have sturdy, bright binding; large type suitable for early readers; a glossary, index, bibliography, and Internet source guide; and useful pronunciation guides to all the big words. Most of the graphics used are stock images. Modest innovations lie in the addition of a map marking continent shifts, as well as a "Dinosaur Family Tree," which explains the naming concept of orders through species. This particular volume concentrates on the Family Ankylosaurs rather than Ankylosaurus exclusively. A nice touch is the section on family life and various theories about dinosaur extinction. 2002, Benchmark Books, $15.95. Ages 6 to 10. Reviewer: Kathleen Karr (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-7614-1023-6 Ankylosaurus and Other Mountain Dinosaurs Dougal Dixon Illustrated by Steve Weston and James Field    The eight dinosaurs described in this book lived on hills, mountains, or in valleys. Amargasaurus lived in herds grazing in the hills millions of years ago. They had tall spines along their necks. The Anchisaurus was a long-necked dinosaur with sharp teeth that allowed it to eat plants. Protected by armor from tail to eyelids, the Ankylosaurus was safe to wander the mountains searching for plants to eat. The speedy Eoraptor darted through trees hunting small animals for its dinner. The meat-eating Herrerasaurus was taller than a man. It used its sharp teeth to tear meat off of its prey. The armored Scelidosaurus was a plant-eater that walked on all four feet and was almost as tall as a man. Another plant-eating, armored dinosaur was a Scutellosaurus. It was larger than a chicken and could roll up into a ball for protection. The Stegaceras fought by banging their heads together to determine the leader of the herd. Each dinosaur is pictured in detail in its natural environment, and its size is compared to a chicken, a human or an elephant. A modern day animal that may have some similarities to each dinosaur is shown. The back of the book offers library references and a web site. This is an excellent choice for an elementary school library. 2005, Picture Window Books, $22.60. Ages 6 to 10. Reviewer: Sally Niezgoda (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-4048-0670-9 Apatosaurus Susan H. Gray    In this volume of the "Exploring Dinosaurs" series, young readers visit the fascinating world of one of the largest animals that ever lived on our planet, the Apatosaurus. It was so big--up to 80 feet long and weighing up to 30 tons--that it spent most of its time eating the many plants that proliferated during the Jurassic Period, about 155 million to 144 million years ago. Besides telling us what Apatosaurus ate and what ate it, this sturdy hardcover book chronicles the "Bone Wars" between 19th century paleontologists Othniel Charles Marsh and Edward Drinker Cope, who tried to find more fossils than the other and who both claimed to have been the first to find Apatosaurus! Included also are a glossary of scientific terms used in the text, a subject index, a listing of websites, books and museums that readers who wish to learn even more about Apatosaurus will want to check out, plus a geologic timeline that describes the plants, animals and climatic conditions of the earth during its major prehistoric eras. Nicely illustrated with historic photos, full color photos of fossils, and imaginative color paintings of how life might have been like for Apatosaurus in the Jurassic Period. 2004, The Child's World, $27.07. Ages 6 to 10. Reviewer: Dianne Ochiltree (Children's Literature). ISBN: -15929-6043-X Apatosaurus Rupert Matthews    At a time when the animals were enormous, the Apatosaurus was one of the biggest of them all. Paleontologists have found fossils indicating this dinosaur was about three times as big as an elephant. Like other large mammals of its time, it couldn't move very quickly and relied on plants to provide nutrition. Unlike others, however, scientists believe that Apatosaurus cracked their long whip-like tails in an effort to communicate with each other. These are among the fascinating facts that young readers will learn from this "Gone Forever!" series. Boasting sixteen titles and aimed at kindergarten through second-graders, each book in the series is laid out using short chapters and simple language. Maps, timelines, photos, a fact file, glossary, bibliography, and index are included. Introducing young readers to complex subjects can be difficult. This series does a good job of taking the detective work involved in studying extinct creatures and plants and explaining it to the earliest of readers. Having said that, because of the subject matter and the reliance on the glossary to explain new terminology, this series will likely be best utilized by those readers at the stronger end of this age group. 2004, Heinemann Library, $22.79. Ages 5 to 7. Reviewer: Kris Sauer (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-4034-4910-4 ISBN: 1-4034-4917-1 Apatosaurus: and Other Giant, Long-necked Plant-eaters Virginia Schomp    Prehistoric World" is another new series of dinosaur books designed specifically for the school library trade. The five volumes have sturdy, bright binding; large type suitable for early readers; a glossary, index, bibliography, and Internet source guide; and useful pronunciation guides to all the big words. Most of the graphics used are stock images. Modest innovations lie in the addition of a map marking continent shifts, as well as a "Dinosaur Family Tree," which explains the naming concept of orders through species. This particular volume concentrates on Sauropods in general rather than Apatosaurus exclusively. A nice touch is the description used for size: "thighbones as tall as a man." Kids can relate to this kind of comparison. 2002, Benchmark Books, $15.95, Ages 6 to 10. Reviewer: Kathleen Karr (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-7614-1022-8 Baby Dinosaurs: Eggs, Nests, and Recent Discoveries Thom Holmes and Laurie Holmes Illustrated by Michael William Skrepnick    Try to imagine a baby animal increases its weight 20,000 times while growing into an adult! This was but one amazing feat of baby dinosaurs, and one amazing fact presented in Baby Dinosaurs. This book explains many fascinating events relating to the birth and rearing of dinosaurs. The book is laid out logically with information that builds on itself, starting with the basics of dinosaur classification and proceeding to egg sizes, dinosaur family life, how dinosaur eggs were probably laid, hatching survival strategies, information on the paleontologists who made the discoveries, and egg physiology. The authors pose interesting questions, such as, To what degree and how did dinosaurs care for their young? The authors then answer the questions, using available evidence and pointing out what is not known or what is still in doubt. This volume is certainly one of the best basic books available on baby dinosaurs and dinosaur family life, not only because of what is covered, but because it is covered scientifically while maintaining the reader's interest. Descriptions of theories are clear, as is the evidence for the conclusions drawn. The illustrations are all black and white, but are used well to make various points. The authors include both book references for further reading and a list of related Web sites. (from the Dinosaur Library Series) Glossary; Index; C.I.P. Highly Recommended, Grades 5-6, General Audience. 2003, Enslow, 104pp., $20.95. Ages 10 to 12. Reviewer: Bill Boesenberg (Science Books and Films (Vol. 40, No. 1)). Best Books: Best Books for Junior High and Young Adults, 2004; Science Books & Films Brodart Science in the School Library, 2004-2005; High/Low; United States ISBN: 0-7660-2074-6 Baryonyx Rupert Matthews    Most meat-eating dinosaurs have been found to have claws on their back feet. Baryonyx is unusual in that it is believed to have had one huge claw attached to a toe on each of its front feet. They used this claw to troll mostly for fish, but also to scavenge the meat off of animals that were already dead. These are among the fascinating Baryonyx facts that young readers will learn from this "Gone Forever!" series. Boasting sixteen titles and aimed at kindergarten through second-graders, each book in the series is laid out using short chapters and simple language. Maps, timelines, photos, a fact file, glossary, bibliography, and index are included. Introducing young readers to complex subjects can be difficult. This series does a good job of taking the detective work involved in studying extinct creatures and plants and explaining it to the earliest of readers. Having said that, because of the subject matter and the reliance on the glossary to explain new terminology, this series will likely be best utilized by those readers at the stronger end of this age group. 2004, Heinemann Library, $22.79, Ages 5 to 7. Reviewer: Kris Sauer (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-4034-4911-2 ISBN: 1-4034-4918-X Brachiosaurus Daniel Cohen and Brent Breithaupt    Brachiosaurs was a sauropod, one of those plant-eating dinosaurs with the long and graceful necks. The author of this little book tells us a good deal about this dinosaur's body, what it ate, what preyed on it, and why it is no longer roaming the face of the earth. He also gives us a picture of Brachiosaur's world--the other creatures that lived at that time and what the world might have looked like then. Daniel Cohen also tells us where fossils of these dinosaurs have been found and explains how paleontologists are studying these dinosaurs today. The information in this book is well presented and interesting, but the photographs and illustrations are unfortunately dull and average at best. At the end of the description about the Brachiosaur there is a "Hands On" activity, which gives the reader the opportunity to figure out how tall the Brachiosaurs was. This activity is followed by a glossary. At the back of the book the reader will find a bibliography, and an index. In addition, the author explains how to use Fact Hound, a special Internet search engine. This book is one in the "Bridgestone Science Library." 2003, Bridgestone Books, $18.60. Ages 6 to 9. Reviewer: Marya Jansen-Gruber (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-7368-1620-8 Centrosaurus and Other Dinosaurs of Cold Places Dougal Dixon Illustrated by Steve Weston and James Field    The eight dinosaurs presented in this book lived in the colder regions of the earth millions of years ago. The Centrosaurus moved to warmer areas in search of plants to eat when the cool season arrived. The large Cryolophosaurus searched cold beaches for dead sea animals washed ashore. Spikes and armored plates protected the large Edmontonia as it ate twigs off of conifer trees in the cold north. The Iguanodon was a large plant-eater with thumb spikes on its front legs. The Leaellynasaura used its large eyes to seek plants to eat in the long, dark winter. The Minmi had armor and speed to help protect it from meat-eaters. The Pachycephalosaurus was slightly taller than a man. It butted its enemy with a bony dome on its head. The Troodon ran fast to catch its prey. It laid its eggs in a nest in the open where the mother warmed them until they hatched. Each dinosaur is pictured in detail in its natural environment, and its size is compared to a chicken, a human or an elephant. A modern day animal that may have some similarities to each dinosaur is shown. The back of the book offers library references and a web site. This is an excellent choice for an elementary school library. 2005, Picture Window Books, $22.60. Ages 6 to 10. Sally Niezgoda (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-4048-0672-5 Coelophysis Susan H. Gray    A title in the "Exploring Dinosaurs" series, this volume introduces young readers to one of the earliest dinosaurs to walk the Earth, the Coelophysis, who lived in the Triassic Period, about 225 million to 208 million years ago. Because of its hollow, lightweight bones, this ancient reptile's name comes from the Greek words "hollow form." Although slender and small, about 10 feet long and weighing between 40 to 70 pounds, the Coelophysis was a swift, meat-eating predator that probably hunted in a pack. It also had the advantage of having an uncommonly large brain! The mystery of why this animal became extinct has fascinated paleontologists since its fossilized bones were first found in the late 19th century, and its life story will fascinate young readers. The sturdy hardcover volume also features a glossary of scientific terms used in the text, an annotated listing of books, websites and museums where more information about Coelophysis can be found, a subject index and a geologic timeline, describing the climate, vegetation and animals that lived during the major prehistoric eras. Illustrated throughout with scientific drawings, historic photos, color photos of fossils and dig sites, as well as imaginative paintings that help us picture what Coelophysis--and its Triassic world--looked like. 2004, The Child's World, $27.07. Ages 6 to 10. Reviewer: Dianne Ochiltree (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-5929-6185-1 The Deadliest Dinosaurs Don Lessem Illustrations by John Bindon    Did you know that dinosaurs were the smartest animals of their time. This book features seven dinosaurs. An artist's representation of each dinosaur is accompanied by the phonetic spelling of the name, the size, the geographic local, and the time period that it lived. A double-page spread shows a time line for all these dinosaurs and a silhouette for each one. Another illustration shows the comparative brain size for the apatosaurus, the Nile crocodile, the troodon, the African elephant, and the human. The text discusses how scientists try to compare the size of each animal's brain with the size of the body. The book also talks about what scientists can discover from fossil remains and attempts to set the reader right down into the time of the dinosaurs and vividly describe what life must have been like in prehistoric times. The illustrations help enhance the imagery with exciting and action-packed paintings. Within the text, glossary words appear in bold face and each dinosaur's scientific name is in italics. A glossary and an index are in the back. This book is part of Lerner's "Meet the Dinosaurs" series which includes the titles, Armored Dinosaurs, The Deadliest Dinosaurs, Duck-Billed Dinosaurs, The Fastest Dinosaurs, Feathered Dinosaurs, Flying Giants of Dinosaurs Time, Giant Meat-Eating Dinosaurs, Giant Plant-Eating Dinosaurs, Horned Dinosaurs, Sea Giants of Dinosaur Time, The Smallest Dinosaurs, and the Smartest Dinosaurs. 2005, Lerner, $23.95. Ages 8 to 11. Reviewer: Sally J. K. Davies (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-8225-1421-4 ISBN: 0-8225-2619-0 Deltadromeus: and Other Shoreline Dinosaurs Dougal Dixon Illustrated by Steve Weston and James Field    The eight dinosaurs described in this book lived near the shores of bodies of water such as rivers and oceans millions of years ago. Slightly larger than a chicken, the meat-eating Compsognathus ate small animals, insects, and lizards. The vegetarian Corythosaurus cooled off in the forest swamps where it found edible plants on the bottom. The Deltadromeus ran down its prey or ate dead animals that it found on the delta where it lived. The Masiakasaurus, with its spiky, hooked teeth, enjoyed the fish it caught in streams. The huge Paralititan was a plant-eater. The Pelecanimimus had a pouch under its chin similar to a pelican. The armored Struthiosaurus was a plant-eater slightly taller than a chicken. The Suchomimus was as tall as an elephant and had jaws like a crocodile. Each dinosaur is pictured in detail in its natural environment, and its size is compared to a chicken, a human or an elephant. A modern day animal that may have some similarities to each dinosaur is shown. The back of the book offers library references and a web site. This is an excellent choice for an elementary school library. 2005, Picture Window Books, $22.60. Ages 6 to 10. Reviewer: Sally Niezgoda (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-4048-0669-5 Did Dinosaurs have Feathers? Kathleen Weidner Zoehfeld Illustrated by Lucia Washburn    Using the related questions, "So where did birds come from? And how did this amazing feathers develop?", Zoehfeld follows the discovery of a two-and-a-half inch feather/fossil print in 1860 to the evolution of Archaeopteryx, the first skeleton found that did, indeed, boast wings. Throughout the text, Zoehfield questions whether Archaeopteryx is actually the forerunner of modern birds through a series of questions and answers that allow the young reader to understand how certain dinosaurs probably evolved into birds. Noting that one group of dinosaurs, the theropods, have distinct similarities to birds, the author then goes into a great amount of detail about the evolution of feathers from protofeathers that were probably used more to gain attention to feathers that developed to keep the dinosaurs warm. The last two pages of the text highlight more ways to find out about feathers in the contemporary sense. This is a solid read for primary grade readers who are ready to move from simply exposition to a more subtle, problem-solving approach. 2004, HarperTrophy, $15.99 and $4.99. Ages 5 to 9. Jean Boreen, Ph.D. (Children's Literature) ISBN: 0-06-029026-9 ISBN: 0-06-029027-7 ISBN: 0-06-445218-2 Dinosaur Peter Sis    This wonderful, wordless board book is all about imagination. In the tradition of Where the Wild Things Are, an everyday occurrence turns into a wild adventure. Bold gouache illustrations and a clever use of spreads pull the reader right into the bathtub with a small child and a toy dinosaur. The little bather is hardly wet when real dinosaurs begin to appear and chase each other. The perspective begins to widen, showing more and more dinosaurs (and a smaller and smaller child), until a three-page spread puts the reader into a prehistoric world complete with volcanoes, ancient vegetation, and a dozen different dinosaurs. The detailed illustrations on this spread are done in watercolor and pen and ink, setting them apart from the simple gouache illustrations that precede and follow them. As the friendly Apatosaurus splashes the bather with his tail, the reader is transported back to the bathroom just as Mother appears with a towel. Does she know that dinosaurs were just in her bathroom and her child traveled through time? Could this happen in your bathtub, too? You just might need to fill up the tub and find out. 2005, Greenwillow/HarperCollins, Ages 2 to 5, $6.99. Reviewer: Eileen Hanning ISBN: 0-06-075967-4 Dinosaur Discoveries Gail Gibbons    With nearly twenty books in print about animal species (polar bears, pits, penguins, rabbits, sea turtles, sharks, spiders, and so forth), Gibbons is an expert at giving young readers an overview plus interesting specifics. A historical overview of Eohippus' evolution and horse appearance, disappearance and reappearance on the North American continent introduces the book. Discussion of the three basic horse sizes, characteristics and terminology (withers, hands, flank, quarters, fetlock), a double page spread about horse feet and horseshoes, followed by a discussion of gait, teeth, and habits suits the curious as well as report writers. Birth of a foal and its growth into a yearling is also covered. Throughout the full color illustrations, Gibbons uses various breeds of horse to discuss general characteristics and labels the breed so that young readers can learn names or ignore them in pursuit of generalities. A table of some well-known purebred horses and another of entertainment events horses typically appear in round out the information. There's little information about working horses on farms, however, and only Clydesdales and Morgans are mentioned. As in her other books, Gibbons ends with some dozen facts about horses or horse lore that might interest the reader. There's no index or table of contents, but the information is easily locatable since pictures and text and the occasional titled information ("Gaits of a Horse," "Teeth") make information easy to find. Slightly easier than the Lauber/Schanzer The True-or-False Book About Horses (HarperCollins, 2000), the two books would complement any horse lover's inquiry into the species. 2003, Holiday House, $16.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Susan Hepler, Ph.D. (Children's Literature). Best Books: Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2004; H.W. Wilson ISBN: 0-8234-1703-4 Dinosarus Fact and Fiction By Ronald J. Litwin, Robert E. Weems, and Thomas R. Holtz, Jr    Few subjects in the Earth sciences are as fascinating to the public as dinosaurs. The study of dinosaurs stretches our imaginations, gives us new perspectives on time and space, and invites us to discover worlds very different from our modern Earth.    From a scientific viewpoint, however, the study of dinosaurs is important both for understanding the causes of past major extinctions of land animals and for understanding the changes in biological diversity caused by previous geological and climatic changes of the Earth. These changes are still occurring today. A wealth of new information about dinosaurs has been learned over the past 30 years, and science's old ideas of dinosaurs as slow, clumsy beasts have been totally turned around. This website contains answers to some frequently asked questions about dinosaurs, with current ideas and evidence to correct some long-lived popular misconceptions. Although much has been discovered recently about dinosaurs, there is still a great deal more to learn about our planet and its ancient inhabitants. For answers to a variety of questions such as Did people and dinosaurs live at the same time? or What colors were dinosaurs? visit the US Geological Survey at http://pubs.usgs.gov/gip/dinosaurs/ Dinosaurs Galore Giles Andreae Illustrated by David Wojtowycz    A dozen dinosaurs introduce themselves in clever rhymes in this enchanting picture book. We begin at dawn in the jungle where we are invited to explore the swampland to meet the dinosaurs. Several well-known dinos appear, including Tyrannosaurus Rex and Triceratops, as well as smaller animals such as Ichthyosaurus and Microraptor. From Diplodocus we learn, "I'm not the quickest thinker/'cause my brain is very small./But who needs to be clever/when you're thirty-five feet tall?" In the small print of the copyright page, the author notes that Pteranodon and Ichthyosaurus are not technically dinosaurs but lived during that era. This probably should have been a larger note somewhere and some knowledgeable dinosaur fans will note the error. The text flows nicely from animal to animal and the rhymes scan well. The two-page illustrations are bursting with color and charm, with most of the dinosaurs sporting childlike grins. A marvelous read-aloud or read-together and perfect for all dinosaur-obsessed children. 2004, Tiger Tales, Ages 4 to 8, $16.95. Reviewer: Sharon Oliver ISBN: 1-58925-044-3 Dinosaur Legacy Barbara Taylor and Mark O'Shea    Have you ever heard of an ocean-dwelling crocodile? A lizard without legs? Spiky skin, stubby legs, cold blood, and sharp teeth make reptiles both fascinating and unique. This title takes a close, hard look at crocodilians and lizards, the closest living reptile relatives of the dinosaurs. While it does indeed provide some information about the relationship between dinosaurs and these present-day reptiles, the focus of the book lies elsewhere. Each spread details a particular aspect of the lives of modern day lizards and crocodilians. Readers learn about a variety of individual species--their lives, bodies, habits, habitats, history, and future. The pages are jammed with text, which may initially be intimidating to young readers. However, it is well written, well organized, and packed with stunning photographs. The book is divided into two general sections, one on crocodilians and one on lizards, with a table of contents, a glossary, and an index. This is an excellent, entertaining guide for amateur naturalists of all ages. 2004, Anness Publishing Ltd, Ages 8 to 12, $17.99. Reviewer: Courtney Angermeier ISBN: 1-84476-081-2 Diplodocus Susan H. Gray    A title in the "Exploring Dinosaurs" series, this volume tells young readers everything they have ever wanted to know about this giant reptile that lived from about 150 million to 144 million years ago, during the Jurassic geologic time period. The book opens, and closes, with chapters giving us a fictional glimpse of everyday life for Diplodocus, as accurately as modern science can guess it must have been for the 85-foot-long plant eater. And speaking of scientists, the book also gives a nice history of the paleontologists who first discovered the fossil remains of the first Diplodocus and whose subsequent discoveries have added greatly to our knowledge of all the species belonging to this extinct genus of animal. The sturdy hardcover book includes a glossary of scientific terms used in the text, index, annotated listing of resources for those seeking more information on Diplodocus, and geologic timeline, which describes the major prehistoric periods along with the animal/plant life that lived then. This is a well-illustrated book with historic drawings, diagrams and photographs. 2004, The Child's World, $27.07. Ages 6 to 10. Reviewer: Dianne Ochiltree (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-5929-6186-X Discovering Dinosaurs: Mighty Giants Michael Benton Illustrated by John Sibbick    This "Internet-linked" text on the giants of the dinosaur world provides an excellent read for students looking for a great set of references or for a librarian looking to update information on the various groups of dinosaurs whose fossils have been studied and identified in detail. An interesting add to this text that I have not seen previously is a guideline of ten items for children to consider if they plan to "journey through cyberspace;" suggestions such as not replying to strange emails or leaving a website are a sensible and necessary addition to books like this. The text itself has an easy to follow style and uses variously-titled highlight boxes--Dino Dictionary, Factofile, The Dinosaur Age, How Do I Say That?, Where Did They Live?--to further examine the various groups of large dinosaurs. The Factofiles are extremely useful in the manner in which they detail information like diet, weight, discovery of first fossil, special features of the dinosaur itself, and associated group. Sibbick's illustrations are excellent for providing visuals for younger readers. All in all, this text is a strong addition to the ever-growing collection of books on dinosaurs. 2003, Chrysalis Education, $24.25. Ages 7 to 11. Reviewer: Jean Boreen, Ph.D. (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-93233-358-4 Duck-billed Dinosaurs Don Lessem Illustrations by John Bindon    This is a group of dinosaurs that I did not know much about until I read this book. For the most part, they lived in Western North America. A timeline shows the reader the estimated time that these creatures roamed earth. Scientists know that their bodies were very much alike but that their heads were very different. Babies were fed in much the same way that baby birds are fed. It is believed that they migrated in herds and used certain patterns to protect themselves and their young when attacked by meat-eating dinosaurs. Duckbills were among the last of the dinosaurs to become extinct. As each book in the series explains, a giant asteroid may have struck the earth causing thick clouds which killed plant life--and the dinosaurs' food source. A mummy of a duckbill dinosaur was found in Canada and the mummy showed how the beak, scaly skin and toenails appeared. The book is concise and small and would fit in a classroom situation where dinosaurs are studied; it is part of the "Meet the Dinosaurs" series. 2005, Lerner Publications Company, $6.95. Ages 6 to 10. Barbara Youngblood (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-8225-1369-2 ISBN: 0-8225-2571-2 Edmontosaurus Rupert Matthews    Among the more versatile of the plant-eating dinosaurs, the Edmontosaurus could use its slightly longer back legs to walk on either four or two legs. Its webbed feet gave it the option of swimming in deep water, an important detail given that the Tyrannosaurus Rex liked to make the Edmontosaurus one of its prey. These are among the fascinating facts that young readers will learn from this "Gone Forever!" series. Boasting sixteen titles and aimed at kindergarten through second-graders, each book in the series is laid out using short chapters and simple language. Maps, timelines, photos, a fact file, glossary, bibliography, and index are included. Introducing young readers to complex subjects can be difficult. This series does a good job of taking the detective work involved in studying extinct creatures and plants and explaining it to the earliest of readers. Having said that, because of the subject matter and the reliance on the glossary to explain new terminology, this series will likely be best utilized by those readers at the stronger end of this age group. This title in particular does a good job of explaining the Edmontosaurus within the context of the larger dinosaur world. 2004, Heinemann Library, $22.79. Ages 5 to 7. Reviewer: Kris Sauer (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-4034-4913-9 ISBN: 1-4034-4920-1 Encyclopedia Prehistorica Dinosurs Robert Sabuda and Matthew Reinhart    Just when you think you have seen it all when it comes to moveable books and pop-ups in particular, the new dinosaur book by Robert Sabuda and Matthew Reinhart will leave you almost speechless. There are more than 35 pop-ups, which in itself is amazing for one book, but the incredible detail and the number on each page are astounding. Each spread has a large pop-up dinosaur with information about it. The book takes you through the age of dinosaurs. It describes the climate, type of creatures that lived during that period and gives a pop-up example. Kids will learn what paleontology is and how much information scientists have learned about these creatures that roamed the earth millions of years ago. The range of dinosaurs presented gives kids a picture of those that were long-necked, armored, meat-eaters, raptors and more. The closing page relates some of the possible reasons that the dinosaurs became extinct and notes that some experts believe that birds are the dinosaurs' closest living relatives. Since no one knows for sure what color dinosaurs were, the ones in this book are red, blue, green, purple, orange, yellow and just about ever color you could imagine. Kids and adults will be fascinated by the pop-ups and captivated by the abundance facts found in this tour de force. 2005, Candlewick Press, Ages 5 up, $26.99. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot ISBN: 0-7636-2228-1 The Extinction of the Dinosaurs Don Nardo    Dinosaurs have always been a mystery to mankind. Scientists have been studying dinosaur bones for hundreds of years and have made many discoveries. One mystery the scientists have not yet been able to solve is why dinosaurs all became extinct around the same time period. Over the years there have been many theories about this anomaly commonly referred to as the "great dying." Scientists have come up with theories about why the dinosaurs became extinct based on biology, the climate, and the galaxy. The author gives the reader a cursory overview of different theories and briefly explained why the theories have been refuted. There are two theories that seem to have great support from the scientific community including the "Cosmic Collision" theory and the "Volcanic Catastrophe" theory. Each of these theories is discussed in detail and the author summarizes why they are each probable theories. Young dinosaur enthusiasts will have a much greater understanding of the different theories of extinction and why it is difficult for scientists to know exactly what happened to cause the "great dying." There is a glossary with terms that may be unfamiliar to young readers and a section referencing other resources to learn more about dinosaurs. This book is part of the "KidHaven Science Library." 2004, Thomson Gale, $23.70. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Debbie Bohn (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-7377-2637-7 Feathered Dinosaurs of China Gregory Wenzel    Readers travel backwards in time to spend a day with feathered dinosaurs in northeastern China. On this journey children will roam the lush landscape with theropods, meat-eating dinosaurs, and their prey; plant eating dinosaurs, and the many insects and fish that make up this prehistoric world. Along the way, readers learn that the Caudipteryx, a small, feathered theropod, eats small stones to help grind food in its stomach. This meat eater has no teeth to help cut up the food it eats. Children will accompany the Sinornithosaurus, a hunting dinosaur, as it tracks and snatches its prey, a small mammal with a long, curvy tail. Under some ferns near a lake, a Microraptor flock feeds on the carcass of a horned dinosaur. At 16 inches long, the Microraptor is the smallest adult dinosaur known. This dinosaur is quite exotic looking, with its broad, feathery yellow legs and green feathered wings. Children will be fascinated with the colorful dinosaurs they meet on the pages of this engaging book. The fossils of these creatures from 124 million years ago are found in the lakebeds of Liaoning, China. The author/illustrator painstakingly recreates this ancient world with meaningful text and vivid pictures. Because feathered dinosaurs and modern birds share more than 100 characteristics, including hollow bones, feathers, and clawed, three-toed feet, he posits that the birds of today are "living, breathing, feathered dinosaurs," and not only the descendants of dinosaurs, as was previously thought. Readers will experience a sense of wonder throughout the pages of this outstanding book. Much scientific information is provided in an age-appropriate and thought provoking way. An index/glossary provides support for the text. 2004, Charlesbridge Publishing, $16.95. Ages 7 to 11. Reviewer: Jeanne K. Pettenati, J.D. (Children's Literature). Best Books: Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K-12, 2004; National Science Teachers Association/CBC; United States ISBN: 1-5709-1561-X ISBN: 1-5709-1562-8 Flying Giants of Dinosaur Time Don Lessem Illustrations by John Bindon    In his "Meet the Dinosaurs" series, dinosaur expert "Dino" Don Lessem takes an interesting approach to dinosaurs. Using the 32-page picture book format, he presents information about different "types" of dinosaurs. In this book, he introduces the reader to flying dinosaurs, known as pterosaurs. Who knew that there were flying dinosaurs other than the pteranodon? In fact, scientists have found fossils of more than 100 kinds, but think there may have been more than 1000. The bones of the pterosaurs were hollow, that kept them light and enabled them to fly. Unfortunately, these fragile bones did not survive well as fossils for paleontologists to study. This book focuses on eight types, ranging from sordes with a wingspan of 1u feet to quetzalcoatlus, with a wingspan of 40 feet. And while this book is full of interesting facts, such as the fact that many of these winged creatures had feathers or hair for warmth, it is written very simply and does not have the feel of an over-stuffed fact book. Moreover, the beautiful illustrations are so realistic that the pterosaurs practically fly off the page. The writing and the pictures make this an excellent book for the younger reader. 2005, Lerner Publications, $23.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Moira Rose Donohue (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-8225-1424-9 ISBN: 0-8225-2622-0 Harry and the Dinosaurs at the Museum Ian Whybrow Illustrated by Adrian Reynolds    Harry's sister Sam needs to visit a natural history museum to study human ancestors. Harry goes along with his pail of toy dinosaurs. The dinosaurs keep up a running commentary through the halls of the cavemen (where the saber-toothed tiger is a favorite,) Egyptian mummies, and Romans, until Harry gets hungry-then gets himself and bucket lost in the scary Prehistoric Hall. But it's not scary for long, because by this time Harry has figured out what ancestors are, and cheerfully introduces his plastic friends to theirs. To tidy things up, the endpapers carefully introduce Harry's entire bucketful of dinosaurs by name and correct pronunciation. This British import crosses the Atlantic easily, and should be enjoyed by youngsters going through their dinosaur stage. 2005 (orig. 2004), Random House, Ages 3 to 6, $15.95. Reviewer: Kathleen Karr ISBN: 0-375-83338-2 I am a Tyrannosaurus Karen Wallace Illustrated by Mike Bostock    Dinosaurs continue to fascinate young minds, perhaps they always will. For sheer size, shape and ferocity, nothing can beat dinosaurs. My three-year-old son agrees wholeheartedly. His favorite bedtime book is a large one about dinosaurs, for an age level well above his. Nonetheless, he delights in looking at its many pictures and has become quite expert in correctly naming his favorite prehistoric beasts. Of course, if the reader misidentifies a particular dino, beware. My son will politely point out the error and show you one of his toy dinosaurs to prove the point. This imaginative, brightly-illustrated title invites young readers into the world of a Tyrannosaurus Rex, the legendary giant prehistoric predator. T-Rex is thought to have been the largest carnivore ever to inhabit the earth. On the first page, the author cleverly introduces readers to the Tyrannosaurus and asks them to look through his eyes to see what he sees. That is exactly what happens in this quickly moving book. Readers see the T-Rex, hungry for meat, stalk his prey, attack and devour two dino victims. The author and illustrator have worked together many times before. Their longstanding collaboration is clearly an advantage. The illustrations masterfully complement the text, helping to make this book a winner and worthy of future paleontologists. 2003, Atheneum Books for Young Readers/Simon & Schuster, $15.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Bruce Adelson, J.D. (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-689-87317-4 I am an Ankylosaurus Karen Wallace Illustrated by Mike Bostock    Dinosaurs continue to fascinate youngsters. Here, looking through the eyes of an ankylosaurus, we experience living in prehistoric times, following a mother ankylosaurus as she makes a nest and lays her eggs. The fierce, massive creature guards her nest, smashing a troodon that tries to steal the eggs. She is a vegetarian; when hungry she rips and grinds and chews her way through the forest. Months later, the babies hatch and grow. When attacked by a tyrannosaurus, the mother slams into him and he slinks away. The brief but fascinating text offers basic information. Bostock's naturalistic watercolors create scenes of sand and tropical forest which are appropriate settings for the detailed, often close-up portraits of these creatures. The paintings offer their own, parallel story, adding visual information to the written text. The threats of real danger evoke strong emotions about these long-extinct creatures. 2005 (orig. 2003), Atheneum Books for Young Readers/Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division, $15.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-689-87318-2 Jurassic Shark Deborah Diffily Paintings by Karen Carr    Put the two words Jurassic and shark together and no self-respecting young reader will be able to resist pulling this book off the shelf. But how does this book rate after it is opened? Very well! The text follows Hybodus, ancestor of the great white shark, as she navigates the dark and dangerous ocean waters of the Jurassic period. Hybodus is fearless, solitary, measures about seven feet, all muscle and relentless. She needs all these characteristics to survive, especially as she hunts for a safe place to bear her young. The remarkable illustrations and spare, well-written text will draw young readers into this ancient, watery world, painlessly teaching along the way. All of this without a hint of anthropomorphism. Well done! Though the very real narrative may be a bit grim for preschoolers, most young readers will be fascinated. And so they should be. 2004, HarperCollins, $17.99 and $26.99. Ages 6 to 10. Reviewer: Judy Crowder (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-06-008249-6 ISBN: 0-06-008250-X The Little Book of Dinosaurs Cherie Winner    Any aspiring young paleontologist will consider this small book a favorite. Lifelike illustrations detailing sinew, as well as colorful hides, brighten fact-filled pages as nine species of the prehistoric animals are showcased. To demonstrate size on a conceptual level, an insert representing mankind is juxtaposed beside the dinosaur under discussion. A "Dig This" feature highlights interesting facts about each topic. Easily-understood data is sprinkled with humor, giving this edition an edge over many titles. Bold-faced type accentuates significant vocabulary. Dimensions of the huge animal's body parts are compared to objects familiar to the child so that the measurements of these mighty beasts are meaningful to the young reader. Special features include a timeline of the existence of each creature and a glossary. Pronunciation guides follow each name at the beginning of the chapters. 2005, Two-Can Publishing, Ages 8 to 12, $9.95. Reviewer: Janice DeLong ISBN: 1-58728-484-7 ISBN: 1-58728-516-9 Lizard Tooth: The Adventure of Iguanodon Michael Dahl Illustrated by Garry Nichols    Iguanodon walks across a dusty plain. A hot wind blows. Then Iguanodon smells rain. Iguanodon finds a tree and eats it. He eats standing on his hind legs. Iguanodon is thirsty. Then the storm comes so Iguanodon heads back to the herd. When the rain stops, Iguanodon drinks from a puddle. End of story. The preface explains that this story is based on what we know about the Iguanodon from fossil remains. The idea of describing a snapshot in time is very appealing but when poorly done, it falls flat. In this book, the main story contains clumsy word usage, awkward sentence structure, and stilted language. Throughout the book, little brown boxes contain additional information about the dinosaur. These small pockets of writing are fluid and descriptive. The computer-generated artwork shows all the flaws of this type of illustration. The cookie-cutter style trees appear to be pasted to the landscape. The dinosaurs are slightly blurry and trees in the background are in sharp focus. A "Digging Deeper" section, a short glossary, a bibliography, web resources and an index are at the back. Readers can also see a timeline which shows that humans did not exist in the time of the dinosaurs. This book is part of Picture Window Book's "Dinosaur World" series. 2005, Picture Window Books, $22.60. Ages 6 to 11. Reviewer: Sally J. K. Davies (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-4048-0942-2 New Dinos: The Latest Finds! The Coolest Dinosaur Discoveries! Shelley Tanaka Illustrated by Alan Barnard Paleontological consultation by Dr. Philip J. Currie    Just when you think that you understand a subject, someone comes along and turns everything on its head. Once upon a time we were told that the great and terrible Tyrannosaurus Rex was the biggest meat-eating dinosaur of all time. Now it appears that there is another carnivore that was even bigger, the aptly named Gigantosaurus. For anyone who has even a moderate interest in dinosaurs, this is a book to savor and delight. Which was the biggest? Who was the meanest? What happened to wipe the dinosaurs out? Were dinosaurs cold blooded after all? All these questions and so many more are discussed in this beautifully illustrated and annotated book. We are left with no doubt about the fact that studying and finding out about dinosaurs is a fascinating and exciting business. Who would have thought that you could learn so much from the fossilized "poop" of a creature that died millions of years ago? With the innate sense of the dramatic and an obvious keen understanding of how to reach her audience, Shelley Tanaka has created a wonderful book that will entertain the reader for hours and provide a great source for discussion. At the back of the book the reader will find a map showing where "New Dinosaur Finds" were located. There is also a glossary, a pronunciation guide, a list of Web sites, recommended reading, and an index. Dr. Philip J. Currie provided paleontological consultation. 2003, Atheneum, $16.95. Ages 8 to 10. Reviewer: Marya Jansen-Gruber (Children's Literature). Best Books: Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2004; H.W. Wilson The Children's Literature Choice List, 2004; Children's Literature; United States Choices, 2004; Cooperative Children's Book Center; United States Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K-12, 2004; National Science Teachers Association; United States School Library Journal Book Review Stars, September 2003; Cahners; United States Awards, Honors, Prizes: Society of School Librarians International Book Awards Honor Book 2003 Science Grades K-6 United States ISBN: 0-689-85183-9 Plateosaurus and Other Desert Dinosaurs Dougal Dixon Illustrated by Steve Weston and James Field    The eight dinosaurs described in this book roamed the deserts of the earth millions of years ago. The very large Carcharodontosaurus ate animals it killed with its sharp teeth. The Coelophysis roamed in groups to hunt large animals. The huge, plant-eating Ouranosaurus had a fin down it back and along its tail. Another desert dweller was the birdlike Oviraptor that laid eggs in a nest. The large Plateosaurus traveled around the desert searching for plants to eat. A Protoceratops used its sharp beak to cut off plants to eat. With a single claw on each small arm, the little Shuvuuia dug in the ground for insects to eat. A feathered Velociraptor attacked other animals for food. Each dinosaur is pictured in detail in its natural environment, and its size is compared to a chicken, a human or an elephant. A modern day animal that may have some similarities to each dinosaur is shown. The back of the book offers library references and a web site. This is an excellent choice for an elementary school library. 2005, Picture Window Books, $22.60. Ages 6 to 10. Reviewer: Sally Niezgoda (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-4048-0667-9 Pterosaurs: Rulers of the Skies in the Dinosaur Age Caroline Arnold Illustrated by Laurie Caple    Brilliantly-illustrated and fascinatingly told, this title presents some of the more than one hundred species of pterosaurs that scientists know about. Chapters include an overview of "winged lizards," how their bodies were suited for flight, what they ate, and what we know of pterosaur babies. The text features apt comparisons: the arm and hand bones of the pterosaur's wing suggest that "If your arms were built like (this), your little finger would be more than 3 feet long!" Caple's bright watercolor paintings make details apparent, such as the great variety of teeth and tails, the varying ways wing membranes attached, and the shape (although no one knows the color) of some crested species. All pterosaurs are labeled and their sizes indicated by text ("from that of a sparrow to that of a small fighter jet..."). Readers learn how scientists know about this species (and what they are trying to discover), and how their knowledge has changed over time. In addition, the author notes how pterosaurs fit in the evolutionary chain, and except for an early ancestor, are neither related to birds, nor to the mammalian species of bats. All told, this is a beautiful example of the best kind of nonfiction organizing an immense amount of data in an efficient, appealing, and readable format that leads readers to wonder. Geologic timelines, locations of pterosaur fossils on a world map and where they can be seen in museums, and an index are included. 2004, Clarion, $16.00. Ages 7 to 11. Reviewer: Susan Hepler, Ph.D. (Children's Literature). Best Books: Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K-12, 2004; National Science Teachers Association/CBC; United States ISBN: 0-618-31354-0 Scholastic Dinosaurs A-Z: The Ultimate Dinosaur Encyclopedia Don Lessem Illustrated by Jan Sovak    If you have ever wanted to read about every dinosaur that has been scientifically discovered, then you have finally found that all-in-one book you have been looking for. Each of the seven hundred, alphabetically listed dinosaurs has its name explained (which can be quite interesting in some cases), its vital statistics given, and then its "details" are described. These can vary from a simple description of what the dinosaur might have looked like, to how the dinosaur hunted for its food, to where the best specimens of fossils were found. Throughout the book, there are may wonderful full-page and smaller illustrations of the dinosaurs and their world. In addition, boxes feature the men and women who made some of the great landmark discoveries in paleontology. Additional boxes highlight little known but fascinating facts about dinosaurs that may be of particular interest to younger readers. In the front of the book, before the encyclopedia-proper begins, readers will find a forward written by "Dino" Don Lessem, a description of how the book is organized, and several short chapters about dinosaurs and how they are discovered. In the back of the book there is a resources section which lists books, videos, favorite Web sites, museums, and paleontological expeditions. This is truly a book dip to into again and again 2003, Scholastic Reference, $22.95. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Marya Jansen-Gruber (Children's Literature). Best Books: Best Children's Books of the Year, 2004; Bank Street College of Education; United States Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2004; H.W. Wilson Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2004, 2004; H.W. Wilson; United States Twenty Best Bets for Student Researchers, 2004; American Library Association-Booklist; United States ISBN: 0-439-16591-1 Stegosaurus Susan H. Gray    A volume in the "Exploring Dinosaurs" series, this sturdy hardcover book tells young readers many fascinating facts about Stegosaurus, an enormous reptile that lived about 150 million to 144 million years ago, during the Jurassic Period of our planet's history. For example, this fearsome fellow was approximately as tall and long as a school bus...but its brain was little larger than a golf ball! Readers can discover who discovered the first Stegosaurus fossils, what the extinct creature ate, where it roamed, and why it had all those bony plates running down its back. The volume includes a glossary of scientific terms found in the text, a subject index, annotated listing of books, websites and museums where readers can find out more about Stegosaurus, plus a geologic timeline that describes the major prehistoric periods along with the animal/plant life that lived within them. Richly illustrated with photographs, and imaginative full-color paintings that help readers envision the world in which Stegosaurus flourished. 2004, The Child's World, $27.07. Ages 6 to 10. Reviewer: Dianne Ochiltree (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-5929-6044-8 Stegosaurus: and Other Plains Dinosaurs Dougal Dixon Illustrated by Steve Weston and James Field    The eight dinosaurs described in this book lived in open country or plains millions of years ago. The large Allosaurus was a fierce meat-eater who attacked and ate plant-eating animals. Larger than an elephant, the Apatosaurus used its long neck to reach its meals of twigs and leaves. Carnotaurus was a meat-eater with scaly, bumpy skin, tiny arms, and large back legs. The Deinonychus was a herd animal that used its large claws to attack and kill its prey. The plant-eating Gallimimus was a fast runner like an ostrich is today. The Hypsilophondon ran on its long legs to escape becoming a meal for large meat-eating dinosaurs. The long-necked, long-tailed, armored Saltasaurus was a very large plant-eater. The plant-eating Stegosaurus had plates along its back. Each dinosaur is pictured in detail in its natural environment, and its size is compared to a chicken, a human or an elephant. A modern day animal that may have some similarities to each dinosaur is shown. The back of the book offers library references and a web site. This is an excellent choice for an elementary school library. 2005, Picture Window Books, $22.60. Ages 6 to 10. Reviewer: Sally Niezgoda (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-4048-0668-7 T is for Terrible Peter McCarty    This book looks at the Tyrannosaurus Rex dinosaur from a slightly different point of view, the dinosaur own point of view. He can't help it that he's big, and hungry, and isn't a vegetarian. Perhaps, if he were a different color, he'd seem more, friendly. If your child is a dinosaur fan, this book would be a welcome addition to his or her collection. True fans will be able to identify the other dinosaurs in the book. The subtle message of being yourself is a point of discussion between the child and parent. It is delightfully, illustrated by the author, using pencil on watercolor paper. It could easily be adapted to a small puppet play or memorized piece. The author, a former Caldecott Honor winner, has also published three other books for children. 2004, Henry Holt and Company, $15.95. Ages 3 to 6. Reviewer: Barbara Youngblood (Children's Literature). Best Books: Best Children's Books of the Year, 2004; Bank Street College of Education; United States Choices, 2005; Cooperative Children's Book Center; United States ISBN: 0-8050-7404-X T. Rex Vivian French Illustrated by Alison Bartlett    Lots of types of creatures start from an egg including our own human form. When a grandfather and his grandson visit a dinosaur museum there are many questions, answers and further speculation about how dinosaurs lived on our earth. The beginning of the book tells the reader that the larger print is the grandfather's voice and the smaller print is the grandson's voice. The middle size printing is from the scientist's viewpoint. Many facts that are attributed to T. Rex are given to the reader, but at the same time many questions still are unanswered. Poor grandfather seems to repeat the statement that he doesn't know for sure, as it all happened millions of years ago. The ending is charming as the grandfather explains that perhaps the person who finally finds all the correct facts about T. Rex might just be you. This is a colorful book with good dinosaur information. 2004, Candlewick Press, $15.99. Ages 4 to 12. Reviewer: Barbara Youngblood (Children's Literature). Best Books: Choices, 2005; Cooperative Children's Book Center; United States Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K-12, 2004; National Science Teachers Association/CBC; United States Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, November 29, 2004; Cahners; United States ISBN: 0-7636-2184-6 Triceratops: and Other Forest Dinosaurs Dougal Dixon Illustrated by Steve Weston and James Field    The eight dinosaurs featured in this book lived in the forested areas of the earth millions of years ago. An Argentinosaurus ate shoots and leaves from trees by stretching its long neck up high above its large body. A Huayangosaurus had narrow, pointed plates on its back. The chicken size Microraptor flew through ancient forests searching for insects to eat. The Parasaurolophus was a plant-eater that was about the size of an elephant. The odd looking Stygimoloch had small arms, long legs, and many horns and spines. The large Therizinosaurus used its long claws to tear open ant nests and tree branches searching for a meal in the forest. Horns and armor protected the head of a Triceratops. This large animal bit off plants with its strong beak. The huge meat-eating Tryrannosaurus had tiny arms and large teeth-lined jaws. Each dinosaur is pictured in detail in its natural environment, and its size is compared to a chicken, a human or an elephant. A modern day animal that may have some similarities to each dinosaur is shown. The back of the book offers library references and a web site. This is an excellent choice for an elementary school library. 2005, Picture Window Books, $22.60. Ages 6 to 10. Reviewer: Sally Niezgoda (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-4048-0671-7 Troodon Rupert Matthews    About the height of your average five-year-old and nearly as cagey, the now-extinct Troodon was among smartest of the dinosaurs. With their brains, their excellent eyesight and their long back legs that could pivot on a dime, the Troodons would travel and hunt in packs to attack and feed on larger animals. These are among the fascinating Troodon facts that young readers will learn from this "Gone Forever!" series. Boasting sixteen titles and aimed at kindergarten through second-graders, each book in the series is laid out using short chapters and simple language. Maps, timelines, photos, a fact file, glossary, bibliography, and index are included. Introducing young readers to complex subjects can be difficult. This series does a good job of taking the detective work involved in studying extinct creatures and plants and explaining it to the earliest of readers. Having said that, because of the subject matter and the reliance on the glossary to explain new terminology, this series will likely be best utilized by those readers at the stronger end of this age group. 2004, Heinemann Library, $22.79. Ages 5 to 7. Reviewer: Kris Sauer (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-4034-4914-7 ISBN: 1-4034-4921-X Velociraptor Susan H. Gray    A title in the "Exploring Dinosaurs" series, this sturdy hardcover volume answers the kinds of questions kids might ask about this small (probably no more than 6 feet in length and 60 pounds in weight) ancient reptile that lived during the Cretaceous Period, about 85 million years ago. Once kids discover that this little dinosaur had strong, muscular legs that enabled it to run 25 miles per hour in short bursts, they won't have any trouble guessing why it was named Velociraptor! That is just one of Velociraptor's many unique characteristics explained in the chapters to follow, including a section on how dinosaur bones, footprints and eggs have been preserved as fossils through the ages, for today's scientists to study. The book also features a glossary of scientific terms used in the text, a subject index, an annotated listing of books, websites and museums to go to for more information on Velociraptor, plus a geologic timeline, describing the climate, plants, and animals common to the major prehistoric eras. Nicely illustrated with imaginative paintings that conjure up a vision of the world in which Velociraptor lived, color photos of fossils themselves, and historic photos of the paleontologists who discovered them. 2004, The Child's World, $27.07. Ages 6 to 10. Reviewer: Dianne Ochiltree (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-5929-6047-2 When Bugs Were Big, Plants Were Strange, and Tetrapods Stalked the Earth: A Cartoon Prehistory of Life Before Dinosaurs Illustrated by Hannah Bonner    Subtitled "A Cartoon Prehistory of Life Before Dinosaurs," this compendium of information about the animals, plants, weather patterns and landmasses that existed even before the rise of the dinosaur is a great resource for curious kids who like their science in bite-size portions. The book's journey begins in the coal swamps of 320 million years ago, when the Earth's continents were all grouped together and there was only one giant ocean. Over the next 100 million years, land masses separated and drifted; amphibians, ferns and insects grew huge; proto-dinosaur reptiles made their first appearance; and the remains of the gigantic plant life in this hot, swampy eco-system piled up, destined to be mined eons later as coal, after millions of years spent compressed under layers of rock and soil. Kids will love the easy-to-access format of this full-color, hardcover picture book, and its accurately detailed illustrations done in cartoon/graphic-novel style. Author/illustrator Bonner gives us scientific explanations and theories in easy-to-understand language, with lots of humor mixed in--a good style for the middle grade reader the book is designed to reach. Many pages feature comic book panels or cartoon bubble captions to give even more fun facts. Besides meeting such fascinating creatures as Arthropleura (a 6-foot long bug) and Archosaurus (a fierce, meat-eating proto-crocodile), readers will finally discover a scientific answer to the old question, "Which came first: the chicken or the egg?" The book includes extra materials such as a timeline of life on Earth; a section on 'where to learn more' about this fascinating subject; a glossary of words not defined in the text; a guide on how to pronounce the scientific names in the book; a glossary of words not defined in the text; and a complete index. 2003, National Graphic Society, $16.95. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Dianne Ochiltree (Children's Literature). Best Books: Booklist Book Review Stars, Feb. 15, 2004; United States The Children's Literature Choice List, 2005; Children's Literature; United States Kirkus Book Review Stars, January 15, 2004; United States School Library Journal Book Review Stars, February 2004; Cahners; United States Top 10 Sci-Tech Books for Youth, 2004; Booklist; United States Top 10 Sci-Tech Books for Youth, 2004; American Library Association-Booklist; United States ISBN: 0-7922-6326-X For reviews of books on dinosaurs from a previous year, click here. Also visit www.dinoart.com. 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