Megalosaurus

Janet Riehecky
Illustrated by Jon Hughes

Megalosaurus, (MEG-ah-low-SORE-us) has the honor of being the first dinosaur to be given a name – Megalosaurus means “Great Lizard”. This Great Lizard roamed Europe during the prehistoric times about 170 million years ago. The Megalosaurus was smaller than the Giganotogaurus, about the size of a small bus, ten feet tall, or three meters, and 30 feet long, or nine meters. It had two legs and walked on its toes, which pointed out. This dinosaur had a large tail that stuck out straight when it was walking. Its hands had three fingers and each finger had a hooked claw on it. The Megalosaurus may have hunted in packs and chased large plant eaters, jumping on its prey. While catching its prey, it may have taken large bites with its sharp teeth.

The fossils of the Megalosaurus can be found in museums. No one knows why they died out about 155 millions of years ago. At the end of this picture book, is a glossary that includes the following terms from the text: claw, fossil, hunt, 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 Megalosaurus 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: 978-1-4296-0039-2
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 7/11/09