If You Were A Kid Discovering Dinosaurs

Written by Josh Gregory
Illustrated by David Leonard
Published in 2017

Why we chose this book:
There are several reasons why we wanted this title. First, we're sampling the library's new acquisitions. Second, T has been interested in dinosaurs lately. Finally, I'm trying to incorporate more scientific concepts into our reading and activities.

Mom's Review

Two children discover a dinosaur bone, prompting a paleontological dig.

Miguel loves dinosaurs and Ruth loves hiking; together they discover a large bone fragment. Ruth's father calls the museum, paleontologists get to work, and finally the children are invited to the museum for a formal unveiling of their fossil. In addition to the narrative, photographs with dinosaur trivia are included on each page.

Although the story was appropriate for T, some of the trivia was beyond him. I'd probably recommend this for children who are either a little older or a little more dinosaur-oriented. We looked at and discussed the photographs, which engaged him more than the illustrations, and he was able to relate to the museum visit. T said that he enjoyed it, but I felt like this was not an ideal pick for us.

Son's Review
(age 2 years and 11 months)

Mom: What did you like about the book?

Son: This one. (points to the little girl, Ruth)

Mom: What did she do that you liked?

Son: Her dad said they can go to the "musimmy" [museum]
(This is not exactly accurate, but her dad did call the museum and they did eventually visit it.)

Mom: Was there anything you didn't like?

Son: I liked everything in it.

Mom: What did you learn from this book?

Son: I learned that it was a dinosaur one.

Mom: What did you learn about dinosaurs?

Son: I learned that they are fossils.

Mom: Would you like to find a fossil...why?

Son: Yeah, because fossils are neat.

Mom: What was the best thing in the book?

Son: I like that this is a dinosaur. (points to one of the dinosaurs)

Mom: Would you read this book again...and is there anyone you know who might enjoy this book?

Son: Yeah...G would like it.

Mom: What kind of people do you think might read a dinosaur book?

Son: scientists