Dinosaurium: Welcome to the Museum

This addition to the Welcome to the Museum series offers a vivid tour of a paleontological exhibition. Beginning with a graphic representation of a dinosaur family tree, the tour leads readers through six "galleries" devoted to different geological periods and dominating dinosaurs of those eras. Wormell's dramatic digital engravings are reminiscent of vintage scientific plates; each is paired with a corresponding key identifying the image, while in sections of lively, clear prose, Murray offers greater detail about the subjects in the tableaus: "Pachycephalosaurus are thought to have used their helmetlike heads either for display or to fight one another, most likely over mates or territory," she writes. The muted color palette adds to the sense of visiting the dimly lit hallways of a natural history museum with curiosities to be found around every corner--or, in this case, with the turn of the page. Ages 8-12. (Apr.)

Gr 4-7--This oversize volume is a dive into the fascinating world of dinosaurs. Presented as though readers are walking through a museum exhibit, there is introductory material that will provide context for the time periods and classification of dinosaurs. Once background knowledge is developed, the author guides readers chronologically, where they learn about a variety of species from a number of different eras. Thorough but accessible information is presented throughout: classification and naming, location, habitat, physical characteristics, and conclusions about behaviors. Replicating the museum feel, there is a key to each plate of images offering more specific information about the beasts pictured. The full-page illustrations by Wormell are impressive and capture the imagination. Although this title lacks some of the flash of similar books, it treats the subject matter with a seriousness dino aficionados will appreciate. VERDICT A solid purchase for collections with the need for more dinosaur content.--Erica Thorsen, Albemarle High School, VA