News About Dinosaurs, The - Hardcover

Grade 4-6-- Lauber's new book provides both old ideas about dinosaurs and recently updated theories postulated by paleontologists today. Lauber explains many of the exciting new theories about dinosaurs that portray them as fast-moving, warm-blooded creatures. Using many examples, she describes current ideas about dinosaurs' herding instincts, their coloration, and the way in which they raised their young. She also explains why dinosaurs are now thought to be related to birds and some of the conflicting opinions of dinosaur extinction. Much of the information here is not really that new, and most of it can be found in other children's books on dinosaurs. What is exciting about Lauber's book is that she's matched the high quality text with illustrations of equal caliber. Many of them are done by some of the leading experts in dinosaur illustration, and some (those by Robert Bakker) are done by the paleontologists themselves. Adult readers may recognize much of this artwork from Dinosaurs Past and Present, Vol. I (Natural History Museum, 1987) edited by Czerkas and Olson, but it's wonderful to see this magnificent art in a format that's accessible to children. This book will be used and enjoyed by both children and adults alike. --Cathryn A. Camper, Minneapolis Public Library
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.

The news is good, when handled by an award-winning writer whose previous works set new standards for nonfiction books for children. Addressing her work to readers already well-versed in the literature of dinosaurs, Lauber has compiled an involving update that incorporates the latest scientific research on dinosaurs. Questions kids and scientists ask are posed and answered in the updated "News" sections. Did dinosaurs drag their tails or hold them up? What are Sauropods? Did dinosaurs ignore their young? What killed the dinosaurs? The informative text is amplified by dramatic full-color artwork by noted paleontologists and science illustrators. Always respectful of children's natural curiosity and intellect, Lauber actively engages them in the process of research and manages to convey the excitement of discovery. Written by a master, this is a sure-fire choice for dinosaur fans. Ages 6-10.
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.