Feathered Dinosaurs (Meet the Dinosaurs)

Gr. 2-4, younger for reading aloud. This latest title in the Meet the Dinosaurs series covers some of paleontology's most exciting and recent discoveries--the links between dinosaurs and birds. As in the series' other titles, Lessem writes in simple language and short sentences appropriate for children transitioning out of early readers. But the brief text, which keeps the focus on the exciting science discoveries and the differences between modern birds and ancient dinosaurs, will also read well to younger dino fans. A few photographs of fossils aren't clearly labeled and are poorly reproduced, and more images of fossils, especially from the field, would have enhanced the text. But once again, Bindon's detailed illustrations imagine the creatures in dramatic settings that will bring the drama of the ancient age alive, and interested kids will find this a fine place to start before delving into more advanced books on the topic, such as Nic Bishop's excellent Digging for Bird-Dinosaurs (2000).