The Puzzle of the Dinosaur-Bird: The Story of Archaeopteryx [Hardcover]

Miriam Schlein (Author)

Book Description

Age Level: 9 and up

Presents young readers with the true story of one of the most important fossils ever discovered, a creature that looked like a dinosaur but had feathers, exploring various ideas that scientists have had about the Archaeopteryx through the years.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 4-6?Scientists have argued over Archaeopteryx fossils since they were first discovered in 1861, and they are still a topic of serious discussion in the halls of scientific classification. Was the fossilized skeleton found in a limestone quarry that of a dinosaur with clawed "wings" and feathers? Or was it a bird with teeth and a long tailbone? In a clearly written, readable text, Schlein presents the history of Archaeopteryx discoveries, details the theories of several respected paleontologists, and invites readers to participate in the debate. She gives data on other "early birds," and provides a chronology of fossil finds and an extensive bibliography to reinforce her informative text. Through fine gouache paintings, Hallett has created a wonderful window to the Jurassic landscape and creatures that inhabited it. All in all, a very handsome, authoritative look at a most ancient conundrum.?Patricia Manning, Eastchester Public Library, NY
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Kirkus Reviews

Schlein (More Than One, p. 1047, etc.), subtitling this ``The Story of Archaeopteryx,'' tells how in 1861 the fossil remains of an unusual Jurassic-era creature were found in Germany. The skeleton resembled that of a very small dinosaur but the outline of feathers that covered its body remained in the stone, indicating that it was a bird. The classification of the creature--as a bird (that looked like a dinosaur), or a mammal (that looked like a bird)--has been hotly debated to this day. The book further discusses possible ancestors of archaeopteryx--pterosaurs, small dinosaurs, small reptiles, coelosaurs (``hollow-tailed reptiles''), or other primordial birds--that would aid in the classification process. Despite the lack of answers, readers will relish the mystery; Hallett's excellent drawings and diagrams clarify and add interest to an already informative and challenging book. (chronology, bibliography, index) (Picture book/nonfiction. 6-9) -- Copyright ©1996, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 9 and up
  
• Hardcover: 40 pages
• Publisher: Dial (November 1, 1996)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0803712839
• ISBN-13: 978-0803712836
• Product Dimensions: 10.6 x 8.5 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 9.6 ounces
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #3,381,071 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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