Dinosaurs

October 1, 2020
An abbreviated overview of the dino-world, as currently conceived and studied. Best regarded as a shortened, revised, and reillustrated update to New Questions and Answers About Dinosaurs, illustrated by Jennifer Owings Dewey (1990), this outing pairs a zippy selection of color photos and paleo-art to a brisk recap of basic facts, with particular focus on recent theories and discoveries. Drifting into and out of a Q&A format, the book covers a broad range of topics including dinosaur hips and feathers, what paleontologists and fossils are, and new technology for finding and studying the latter. He goes on to highlight seven standard-issue "Dino-Stars," discuss the "asteroid" and "volcano" extinction theories (properly suggesting that both may be correct), then closes by reaffirming that, yes, birds really belong to the theropod family. The pictures are consistently apt and occasionally arresting, ranging from a close-up of Velociraptor avidly chasing a frantic-looking small mammal to views of scientists at work (most White). If "the Stegosaurus State" is not Colorado's nickname (not on any official list, anyway), and a quaint claim that T. rex was the largest carnivorous dinosaur will have young Spinosaurus fans howling in protest, still this offers an easily readable road map of the field for younger dinophiles. (This book was reviewed digitally with 10-by-20-inch double-page spreads viewed at 75% of actual size.) Thin in spots, but both topic and author come with vast built-in audiences. (index, reading list) (Informational picture book. 8-10)

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July 1, 2020
Bringing readers up to speed on what scientists currently know about dinosaurs, Simon emphasizes how paleontologists work: building on past knowledge and revising theories based on new information. This book covers a lot of ground, and, as always, Simon makes the information accessible and engaging. A lively design includes plenty of illustrations of toothy prehistoric creatures and photos of fossils and scientists. Profiles of a few species conclude the book. A timeline, glossary, index, and reading suggestions add to the title's value.

(Copyright 2020 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)

November 1, 2020

Gr 3-6-Simon shares the newest facts about dinosaurs, fossils, and paleontologists. The book begins with the first discovery of dinosaurs and then describes how the definition of a dinosaur has changed over time. The first fossil hunters are briefly discussed, including Mary Anning. Simon explains how computerized tomography scans (CT) provide a three-dimensional look into the internal parts of fossils. CT scans have changed what scientists originally believed about dinosaurs, prompting new discoveries. The text also examines the Brontosaurus vs. Apatosaurus debate. Scientists originally thought the Brontosaurus fossils were the same as another dinosaur group called Apatosaurus. However, a new study published in 2015 revealed that the two fossils were different enough to be classified as separate groups. Brief paragraphs focusing on some of the most popular dinosaurs are featured, such as Tyrannosaurus rex and Triceratops. Every page offers fascinating facts that will satisfy even the most die-hard dinosaur lover. The full-color illustrations, photos, graphs, and maps enhance and clarify the text. Glossary words are highlighted throughout. An index and further reading suggestions are included. VERDICT Purchase if your dinosaur collection needs an update.-V. Lynn Christiansen, Wiley International Studies Magnet Elem. Sch., Raleigh, NC

Copyright 2020 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

September 1, 2020
Grades 2-5 Since their discovery, dinosaurs have maintained a marvelous air of mystery, due in part to the endless questions still surrounding them. What colors were they? Why did they suddenly disappear? Did they disappear entirely? Theories about these prehistoric creatures constantly evolve in the light of new scientific discoveries and technological advances, and this volume tackles some of those questions while contrasting older theories with the latest revelations, serving as a springboard into the wonderful world of dinosaurs and the questions that swirl around them. Bolded terms and instructional sidebars help in breaking down the dense material; this could be enjoyed straight through or used simply for reference. Colorful pages are packed with a myriad of basic facts and latest theories, and the lifelike illustrations are a striking complement to the text, including fantastically feathered examples in line with current understanding. Simon may be treading familiar ground, but he still offers a solid foray into the ever-fascinating and ever-evolving prehistoric world. Even established dinosaur enthusiasts will find much to learn here.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2020, American Library Association.)