Giganotosaurus

Janet Riehecky
Illustrated by Jon Hughes

Giganotosaurus, (jig-a-NOTE-uh-SORE-us) is known as a big meat eater and one of the longest that walked on two clawed feet. This dinosaur inhabited the South American region during the prehistoric times, 100 million years ago. The Giganotosaurus was as long as a bus, 47 feet, or 14 meters, and had a thin, pointy tail that it held straight out as it walked. Its two small hands had three fingers with sharp claws on each. It had a good sense of smell, which it used to smell its prey from long distances. This dinosaur was known to attack large plant eaters, and possibly hunted in packs. The teeth of the Giganotosaurus were very sharp and were shaped like arrow tips.

The fossils of this dinosaur can be found in museums. No one knows why they died out millions of years ago. At the end of this picture book, is a glossary that includes the following terms from the text: claw, fossil, museum, pack, prehistoric, and prey. Information on additional resources, a web link, and an index can be found at the end of the book.

The colorful pictures of the Giganotosaurus are realistic and yet fascinating. Children should be enthralled by the pictures as they are read to and eventually learn the text. The vocabulary used for the intended grade level is appropriate and engaging. The science of the prehistoric life is detailed enough to encourage further reading, yet simple enough for age appropriate comprehension.

BIBLIO: 2009, Capstone Press, Ages K-1, $21.32
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-4296-0038-5
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 7/11/09