School Library Journal

Series Review: Familiar prehistoric reptiles are introduced with a handful of facts and images. An opening paragraph describes the dinosaur in action; subsequent pages provide information in a few sentences per spread. Coverage includes size, diet, behavior, and fossils, usually with just enough data for readers new to the subject. While the language is occasionally overly vague (Triceratops: “Scientists have studied their teeth. These dinos lost teeth. But they grew new ones.”), the authors distinguish known facts from scientific theory where needed and explain key concepts, such as the “flying reptile” classification of Pterodactylus, at an age-appropriate level. Illustrations are bold and active, depicting the animals realistically in a variety of situations. A two-page image with captioned body parts and a clear range map add useful visual content. -VERDICT Solid choices to beef up the dino shelves.