A Nonfiction Companion to Magic Tree House #1: Dinosaurs Before Dark
November 1, 2000
Gr 2-4-The authors begin with an explanation of how they did their research, assuming the personas of Jack and Annie, two children who traveled back in time before returning home to do more conventional research. A discussion of the kinds of dinosaurs, misconceptions about them, and a description of other creatures that lived at the same time are included, as is an explanation of the role of fossil hunters. Another chapter offers theories about what happened to these intriguing creatures. Jack and Annie offer brief definitions and comments in sidebars; otherwise, the text reads like straightforward nonfiction. The Osbornes conclude with a listing of books, museums, videos, CD-ROMs, Internet sites, and museum visits for further information. Frequent black-and-white cartoons, labeled illustrations, and photo reproductions are instructional and appealing. While this book is a great place to begin research for a report, it will also be enjoyed by those interested in the subject.-Edith Ching, St. Albans School, Mt. St. Alban, Washington, DC
Copyright 2000 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
January 1, 2001
Launching a set of nonfiction books that correspond to titles in the Magic Tree House series, this book provides a lot of information about dinosaurs in an accessible chapter-book format. Drawings and some black-and-white photographs accompany facts about famous fossil hunters, geologic eras, general characteristics of dinosaurs, and specific species. Extensive suggestions for further research are included. Bib., ind.
(Copyright 2001 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)