For dinosaur-loving families, this book contains the story of a mother Maiasaura and her children. The growing process of these dinosaurs is explored in depth as we follow the babies from their first meal, walk with them as they take their first, wobbly steps, and watch as they learn how to gather their own meals of berries and leaves. We get to see first-hand what sort of dangers threaten the nest. But mother is always there to protect her young from enemies like meaner dinosaurs.
This cute story is both fun and educational. Not only does it provide a description of a Maiasaura’s life cycle, but it also shows how big these dinosaurs grow at the different stages of their lives in both metric and standard measurements. Another great aspect of this book is that it is very accessible for young readers. The dinosaurs have long, complicated names but children are able to read them aloud because pronunciations are given in parentheses. Another great educational aspect of this book is the brief entry on how paleontologists discovered the Maiasauras. It encourages young ones to pursue science in the future.
To match an excellent story, the art in this book is beautiful. Peter Barrett transports us back in time millions of years ago with his lush, green landscapes. One could almost smell the dusty dirt of the masterfully colored nesting grounds. The dinosaurs themselves look amazing, as if just by looking at these drawings, one could know what it would feel like to reach out and touch the tough hide of these giant reptiles. This book is truly a hidden treasure. Dinosaur fans will surely love it.
Check the WRL catalog for A Day in the Life of a Baby Dinosaur.
