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Are the Dinosaurs Dead, Dad?

Are the Dinosaurs Dead, Dad?
Written by Julie Middleton
Illustrated by Russell Ayto
Peachtree Publishers, 2013. 32 pages. Picture book.

After little Dave asks his dad if the dinosaurs are dead, the two embark on an educational father-son outing to "The AMAZING Dinosaur Exhibition." As they look at each species, Dad explains about their unique characteristics, such as Deinocheirus' very long arms, or Diplodocus' very long neck. The information is certainly very interesting to Dave, but even more exciting is... whenever Dad's back is turned, the dinos come to life! Dave wonders aloud, if this dinosaur is dead, then why is it trying to eat his burger? Dad just smiles patiently and says, "Diplodocus don't eat burgers, Dave. They're herbivores. It's just your imagination." Ah, but Dave (and the reader) knows the real story about what's happening! This picture book is a sweet pick for little dinosaur lovers. It's funny, but still calm enough for quiet time. The delightful illustrations are as sneaky as the text, with signs at every exhibit warning "Mind the Tail," "Mind the Teeth," etc. The tidbits about each dinosaur are short and sweet, perfectly suited to a young audience.

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