How Do Dinosaurs Say I Love You? (How Do Dinosaurs...?)

The latest in Yolen and Teague's long-running series features dinosaurs testing boundariesthen making amends: You woke in the morning in such a bad mood, a human mom reproaches her colossal neovenator, who grumpily rubs his eyes in his bed. But later, an ouranosaurus with a crenellated red fan along his spine exits the house, blowing a kiss to his adoring dad: But then you blew kisses and waved from the door. I love you, I love you, my dinosaur. Kids should relate to the dinosaurs' mood swings and take heart in the notion that love conquers all. Up to age 4. (Oct.)

Copyright 2009 Publishers Weekly, Used with permission.

PreS-Gr 1 In this ninth outing in the series, the naughty behaviors of young dinosaurs are followed by an endearing act that reminds their human parents why they love their offspring. The situations are familiar: "Out in the sandbox/you threw lots of sand./You ran from the slide, /after slapping my hand." Fans can follow the 10 dinosaurs by starting with their names and pictures on the endpapers. Expressions are expertly painted for humorous effect, including the defiant Tsintaosaurus letting water overflow onto the floor and the rollicking Pachycephalosaurus kicking the seat while mother is driving the car. The large, colorful spreads and rhyming text that is still a joy to listen to after repeated readings make this a successful storytime selection. Well-designed pictures and skillfully arranged words will entice newly independent readers, who will be challenged to find the dinosaur name hand-lettered in the illustration where the creature is introduced. The familiar format will produce laughs, kisses, and cuddles during or after an exhausting day of many of the same events. - Debbie S. Hoskins, Grand Rapids Public Library, MI

Copyright 2009 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.