Synopsis
A comprehensive encyclopedia of dinosaurs, including the latest scientific knowledge and fossil discoveries.
Rollie Welch - VOYA
Weighing in with a hefty number of pages, this single volume is promoted as a complete guide, and perhaps it is just that. Providing more in-depth information than average dinosaur texts, this work is intended for advanced secondary students. The arrangement of chapters such as "Great Predators," "Boneheads," and "Horned Dinosaurs" makes locating specific dinosaurs a hit-or-miss adventure without using the table of contents or index. Once a certain species is located, abundant information is available, including a half page of text, a picture, and a "Dino Factfile" listing the dinosaur's name, the meaning of the name, pronunciation, the animal's diet, and its estimated length and weight. What separates this book from other dinosaur guides are sections that dispel dinosaur myths, explain the question of mass extinction, and outline the evolutionary process, including human development. The easy-to-use time line alleviates students' frustration of trying to organize pre-recorded history. Young adult librarians are sure to welcome any additional source on evolution, a challenging report topic. Living up to its billing, this book also has maps indicating where fossils have been located (identified by color according to the discovery), a list of museums that display dinosaurs (with contact information, including Web sites), and a commentary about rebuilding dinosaur skeletons. The high price tag might cause school librarians to pass on this outstanding work, but it is a must-have source for libraries where dinosaur study is an annual research unit. VOYA Codes: 5Q 4P M J S A/YA (Hard to imagine it being any better written; Broad general YA appeal; Middle School, defined as grades 6 to 8;Junior High, defined as grades 7 to 9; Senior High, defined as grades 10 to 12; Adult-marketed book recommended for Young Adults). 2003, Firefly, 448p.; Glossary. Index. Illus. Photos. Maps. Charts. Source Notes. Chronology. Appendix., Ages 11 to Adult.