WHOA! IS THAT REALLY A DOG?

There are many types of dogs one can find at an animal shelter.  But did you ever see one that was as tall as a building and could belt out a loud roar?  In Anna Staniszewski’s story Dogosaurus Rex, Ben’s pet, Sadie, is everything and more, from sitting on command to rolling over, she is the perfect dog.  Some people in the community are a bit leery of her talents until a situation arises and she’s put to the test to make a performance of a lifetime.  

This humorous story will be enjoyed many times, and fans of Kevin Hawkes- the illustrator who brought The Library Lion to life- will not be disappointed with his latest work.  For ages 2-7 and of course, anyone who wants a dogosaurus as a pet.

MARCH LIKE A DINOSAUR!

Well, it seems that Laurie Berkner has gone and done it again: she has taken another of her beloved songs, We Are the Dinosaurs, from sheet music to illustrated picture book. If you've ever been to this reviewer's storytime, you are probably aware of the song from Berkner's Whaddaya Think of That? album--and what a crowd pleaser it is. This new picture book is much more than just lyrics on a page--illustrator Ben Clanton's bright and cheery illustrations combine with the catchy song to create a rollicking volume sure to be a hit with toddlers, whether it be in storytime or at bedtime. Used with the song or standing on its own, this title is perfect for dinosaur enthusiasts from babies to preschoolers. 

This is just one of many fun and infectious songs by the popular children's musician, so be sure to check out some of Laurie Berkner's many albums. And, to find out more about any of our early literacy storytime programs, contact the Children's Room at (818) 548-2036, or stop by any of our branches to pick up a copy of our latest Family Events!   

RORY THE DINOSAUR WANTS A PET

Rory the dinosaur, who made his first appearance in Rory the Dinosaur: Me and My Dad, returns in this story about finding the perfect pet.

After an exuberant morning of playing fetch and hide and seek with his friend’s exciting new pet hermit crab, Rory is determined to seek out a pet of his own. He earnestly scours his island home, but is dismayed to discover that none of the other animal inhabitants are keen to play his pet. Just as he’s resigned to his pet-free fate, Rory proves that, with a bit of creativity, we can find friendships in all places and forms.

Liz Climo’s Rory the Dinosaur Wants a Pet is a quirky picture book that charmingly captures the preschool-aged imagination and spirit. For more endearing, if odd, picture books about unconventional pets and friends, check out Peter Brown’s Children Make Terrible Pets and Pat Zietlow Miller’s Sophie’s Squash.

Ages 4+

DINOSAUR PARTY!

Imagine receiving an invitation to a dinosaur's party. How exciting, right? A young boy attends a dinosaur party and for the most part he has a great time, with the exception of one dinosaur who tries to grill him and a T-Rex who chases him. Luckily he makes it home safely only to find out he accidentally took the wrong party bag.  

The Dinosaurs Are Having a Party by Gareth P. Jones, illustrations by Garry Parsons, is a wonderfully written picture book.  With beautiful, bright illustrations and rhyming story, this would be a great read aloud for a preschool audience.

CHOCOLATE-FILLED!

A review from Mr. B of the Grandview Branch: 

Goldilocks and the Three Dinosaurs

Re-told and illustrated by Mo Willems

Some of Mo Willems’ books are best enjoyed by readers and listeners a year or two beyond the pre-school level.   Goldilocks and the Three Dinosaurs (“ages 4 and up”) re-told and illustrated by the ever-so-clever Mo Willems (of Knuffle Bunny fame) is definitely for the slightly older reader and the youngster hiding in that reader’s parent's lap.  In this version, the Dinosaurs (Papa, Mama, “and some other Dinosaur who happened to be visiting from Norway”) use three bowls of chocolate pudding to set a trap for what they hope will be a “chocolate-filled-little-girl-bonbon.”  How she, Goldilocks, takes the bait (all three bowls of it!) only to discover she’s in the wrong story is jaw-dropping funny at any age level; made even funnier by Willems’ witty illustrations. If you are a young reader, share it with your parents. If you are a parent, share it with your friends.

RL: 2-4 / Age: 6+