From Publishers Weekly
Lauber returns to territory she's visited successfully in previous picture books (Dinosaurs Walked Here; Living with Dinosaurs), weaving snippets of narrative prose with well-researched information about dinosaurs. Enhanced by Henderson's imaginative, highly atmospheric illustrations, which show what the creatures might have looked like in their natural habitats, the book offers readers the closest thing to a ticket back in time. Here, Lauber examines the periods leading up to the emergence of dinosaurs, explains how dinosaurs evolved from the many amphibians and reptiles that were their ancestors, and discusses the appearance of mammals on the scene. Though chock-full of facts and details, her text never slips over the edge into the scholarly or dull. Eminently readable, and particularly respectful of the inquisitive child with a thirst for specific knowledge, this splendid reference would be a fine choice for both school and home. Ages 6-10.
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
Grade 4-6?Similar in style to Lauber's Living with Dinosaurs (S & S, 1991), this informative title takes readers to an even earlier time?over 230 million years ago?to the late Paleozoic and early Mesozoic eras. They learn (or are at least reminded) that there were many forms of animal life on Earth before the dinosaurs, and are introduced to a wide variety of reptiles, amphibians, and mammal ancestors. Facts and theories about these creatures' diets, enemies, means of locomotion, and how they adapted and evolved are described. This authoritative book uses scientific terms that are appropriate for reports while remaining accessible to general readers. Charts show a scale of time units and maps illustrate the shifting of continents with the resulting climate changes that affected animal development and either survival or extinction. Henderson's illustrations, done in pastel, ink, watercolor, and stone lithography, include full-page depictions of habitats that might have existed. Rendered in deep tones, the pictures have a mysterious quality that creates a sense of place and enhances the introductory paragraphs found at the beginning of each chapter. Other illustrations are of clearly labeled individual animals. Pronunciations are found in the extensive index, but not within the text. A valuable addition, along with Lauber's other titles, to round out collections on prehistoric life.?Diane Nunn, Richard E. Byrd Elementary School, Glen Rock, NJ
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.