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The Bone Tells Its Story
So You Want To Be A Dinosaur Hunter trades the Hollywood version of discovery for something far more powerful: the quiet thrill of earning knowledge. Do you remember the moment when dinosaurs shifted from fascination to science for you?
I think it happened gradually rather than in a single moment. Like a lot of kids, I grew up with dinosaurs as the magnificent monsters of imagination — the T. rex with the world’s loudest roar, the brontosaurus with its ridiculous neck, the velociraptor as a movie villain. The shift from fascination to science came when I started paying attention to the work that produced what we know. The realization that someone, somewhere, had spent years on their knees in the heat with a brush finer than a paintbrush, just to free a bone that had been buried for sixty-five million years — that landed differently than the dinosaurs themselves. The dinosaurs are the headline. The work is the actual story. Once I started seeing it that way, the science became just as compelling as the creatures. Maybe even more so.
Many kids imagine fossil hunting as fast-paced and exciting. What’s the biggest misconception about paleontology you hope this book corrects?
The misconception I most wanted to correct is the one I think Hollywood reinforces: that paleontology is fast. It is not. A bone that takes thirty seconds to find on screen takes weeks to actually free from the rock, months more to clean and analyze in the lab, and sometimes years before the scientific interpretation is settled. The work is patient in a way that few professions are. And that patience is the science. The slowness is what makes the knowledge reliable. I wanted kids who are drawn to dinosaurs to see that the patience is not the boring part of the work. It is what makes the discoveries real.
Was there a particular step—fieldwork, excavation, or lab analysis—you found most fascinating to explain?
Definitely the lab analysis. Fieldwork has the romance, and excavation has the visible drama, but the lab is where the work actually becomes science. That is where a fossil stops being a thing you found and becomes evidence that something existed. The CT scanning of fossil interiors, the comparative anatomy across species, the chemical analysis of preserved tissue — these are the moments when the bone in front of you starts telling you a story that no one has ever heard before. I find that genuinely thrilling, and I wanted kids to see it. Many books focus on the dig site because that is what is photogenic. The lab is less photogenic, but arguably more astonishing.
How did you balance detailed scientific information with accessibility for younger readers?
The honest answer is that I trust kids more than the publishing industry sometimes does. Kids in the 10-14 age range can handle real content if the writing respects them. They do not need me to dilute the science; they need me to explain it well. So my approach is to use real terminology — sedimentary layers, stratigraphy, bone density analysis — and then make sure the surrounding context lets the reader understand what the term actually means in practice. I write the book imagining that the reader is curious, capable, and possibly already knows more than I do about specific dinosaurs. The book meets them where they are rather than where I assume they might be. In my experience, kids rise to that level of trust every time.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website
So You Want To Be A Dinosaur Hunter brings kids ages 10 to 14 face to face with the real world of paleontology. No shortcuts, no movie magic — just the fascinating, grueling, deeply rewarding science of uncovering prehistoric life. Young readers will learn how paleontologists read geological layers the way most people read books, how they use painstaking excavation techniques to free fossils from stone, and why a single bone fragment can rewrite everything we thought we knew about dinosaurs.
The facts inside are specific and surprising. Readers will discover how fossils actually form, what ancient teeth and tracks reveal about creatures like T. rex and Triceratops, and how laboratory analysis transforms a chunk of rock into a scientific breakthrough. They will explore the history of legendary fossil discoveries that changed our understanding of prehistoric creatures — and learn why the dig that yields nothing can matter just as much as the one that changes everything.
But this is more than a dinosaur encyclopedia or a collection of amazing species profiles. It is an illustrated guide to a real career, written with honesty and depth. Young readers will find out what physical endurance the fieldwork demands, what intellectual rigor the science requires, and what drives paleontologists to call themselves the luckiest scientists alive. They will also discover what kids can do right now — the skills to build, the questions to ask, the places to explore — to find out if this profession might be their future.
Every page respects the intelligence and curiosity of its readers. This book does not simplify the science into something unrecognizable. It does not gloss over the hard parts. It brings young people all the way inside the work, because the child who dreams of hunting dinosaurs deserves to know what that dream actually looks like when it becomes a life. For the kid who has always been drawn to something ancient and vast.
For the one who picks up every rock and wonders what might be hidden inside. The fossil has been there for sixty-five million years — waiting for someone exactly like you to find it.
Ages 10 to 14. Illustrated nonfiction. Science careers, fossils, and the prehistoric world.
So You Want To Be A Dinosaur Hunter (Paleontologist)
So You Want To Be A Dinosaur Hunter is a detailed, engaging, and refreshingly realistic introduction to the world of paleontology. Rather than presenting dinosaur hunting as a fast-paced adventure where discoveries happen overnight, this children’s book shows young readers what the work is really like: patient, careful, physically demanding, and deeply rewarding.
One of the book’s biggest strengths is how thoroughly it explains what paleontologists actually do. Readers learn about field expeditions, fossil excavation, geological layers, lab work, scientific analysis, and the teamwork required to turn ancient bones, teeth, and tracks into discoveries about life millions of years ago. The book does a great job showing that paleontology is about asking questions, studying evidence, and developing the patience and skills needed to understand the past.
The colorful, cartoon-like illustrations make the book visually inviting, especially for younger dinosaur fans. Some sections include higher-level vocabulary and longer explanations, so I think the book is best suited for strong readers, especially ages 10–14. Younger children who love dinosaurs can still enjoy it with an adult, particularly by looking at the pictures and discussing the main ideas together. The glossary at the back is a helpful addition and makes the scientific language more accessible.
This book would be a wonderful choice for kids who are beginning to understand that a love of dinosaurs can become a real career. It’s especially valuable because it does not oversimplify the profession. It’s honest about the patience, endurance, and discipline required, while still capturing the excitement of uncovering something that has been hidden for millions of years. For readers who are newer to paleontology, it could easily become the kind of book that sparks a lasting interest.
I really liked the structure of the book and how it keeps the information from feeling overwhelming. The pages move between colorful artwork, blocks of explanation, lists, side-by-side images, and fun fact sections, which helps break up the flow and keeps readers engaged. This variety makes the book feel approachable even when the subject matter is detailed, and it gives kids different ways to absorb the information as they read.
So You Want To Be A Dinosaur Hunter is informative, thoughtful, and inspiring. It is a great read for curious kids, dinosaur lovers, future scientists, and families who enjoy nonfiction books that invite big conversations. It is the kind of book children can grow into, returning to it at different ages and discovering new layers each time.
Pages: 38 | ASIN : B0GXGTW3CR
Unique Voices
Winston the Titan Terrier: Adventures in Ancient Egypt follows a superhero dog who unexpectedly travels back in time to ancient Egypt, where he discovers dinosaurs are present and must figure out how they got there and fix history. What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
Mia and I approached the sequel with a clear goal: to deepen the engagement that readers loved in the first book. We focused on three main areas to achieve this.
The Power of Engagement: Puzzles and Fun
First and foremost, we expanded the interactive elements. Both Mia and I share a passion for brain teasers, so we wove numerous puzzles and riddles into the narrative of Book 2. This wasn’t just filler; it was a deliberate strategy to maintain a high level of reader engagement and, as our young audience told us with the first instalment, to genuinely ‘get their minds working.’ We see this as a way to make the reading experience active, not passive.
Weaving in Surprising, Up-to-Date Knowledge
Secondly, we made a point of ‘sprinkling in’ fascinating, recently discovered facts and snippets of knowledge. We didn’t want to rely on old, common knowledge. A great example of this is a scene where we highlight how a domestic cat, like our character Smokestrike, is actually capable of running faster than a fully grown Tyrannosaurus rex at its estimated speed. This is based on new research from fossilised footprints, which suggests that large theropods could only walk or trot due to the mechanical limits of their weight and bone structure.
Another discovery we used was acknowledging that Queen Cleopatra was not Egyptian but Greek, a descendant of Ptolemy, one of Alexander the Great’s generals. These details add unexpected depth and authenticity, correcting common misconceptions for our young readers.
Authentic Detail and Historical Context
Finally, we committed to integrating authentic historical details through our research. For example, we feature ‘biltong,’ the famous South African dried-meat snack, as Winston’s all-time favourite snack. Our research revealed that dried meat was historically very common in ancient Egypt for preservation, as there definitely weren’t any fridges back in those times. So connecting a modern detail to an ancient practice and adding a vivid, believable layer to the narrative, where we learnt something new about ancient Egypt.
Perhaps the most fascinating discovery we wove into the story was the Ahramat Branch, a now-extinct arm of the Nile River that once flowed right past the Giza and other pyramid complexes. This newly identified river branch may explain how the ancient Egyptians transported their massive stones to the pyramids. We featured this detail prominently in our cover artwork and several illustrations.
What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?
Most enjoyable character to write for…
Mia won a reversible yellow octopus at the arcade shortly after our first book was released. It was a yellow reversible super grumpy Octopus, that she instantly nicknamed as “Sadface.” I began speaking to Mia in character as the persona of a friend who used to complain about numerous events and situations on a constant basis, which sparked endless laughter from her.
We both kind of knew this work in the Winston universe and our readers as a formidable yet hilarious antagonist who could inject both chaos and entertainment into future storylines.
Most challenging character to write for…
We found great satisfaction in developing the full range of our characters, and it was rewarding to bring their individual personas and unique voices into the narrative of this book.
Where can your fans expect to find Winston, Diesel, and Teddy next?
Future Storylines and Book 3
One of the most enjoyable parts of the creative process for Mia and myself was the discussions and debates about future storylines. We’re currently mapping out Book 3, and it’s set to be our most ambitious adventure yet.
The Stakes in Ancient Egypt
The first half of Book 3 will address the cliffhanger from the sequel. Our heroes, Teddy and Diesel, are now equipped with their newly discovered superpowers, and they have some unfinished business: they must first save Ancient Egypt from the remaining dinosaurs and successfully retrieve Winston from that ancient timeline. This means facing huge, new dangers, such as the gigantic Mosasaurus lurking in the Nile and any remaining pteranodons still patrolling the skies with powers they haven’t really mastered yet, which could have some hilarious outcomes.
Expanding the Scope: A New Realm of Danger
From there, the scope of the story expands dramatically. Once they return to the future, their main goal will be to track down and battle their persistent foe, Sadface, and other infamous creatures known for destroying large ships. This chase takes them through a new, unpredictable realm filled with hidden dangers and legendary underwater locations that challenge the heroes’ new abilities.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | YouTube | The Chaos King | Amazon
From multiple award-winning storytellers Mia van Dongen and Colin van Dongen comes the next thrilling instalment in the “Winston The Titan Terrier” series!
Get ready for Winston’s new epic journey where futuristic chaos collides with ancient history! In Adventures In Ancient Egypt, our beloved superhero dog, Winston, and his best mate Teddy with his super-hyperactive dad Diesel, find themselves catapulted into more unbelievable new challenges against Smokestrike the naughty ninja cat and new intergalactic villains.
Following their discovery of a secret, magical tunnel system beneath the Bone Shop, Winston and his crew thought they’d seen it all. But when the mischievous alien Disco Duck unleashes a new time-twisting plot, Winston is hurled back to the scorching sands of 51 BC Ancient Egypt, under the reign of Queen Cleopatra herself!
Armed with his incredible Cosmic Bone, a shape shifting, language decoding, enemy outsmarting marvel, and a backpack full of transforming nanotech gadgets. Winston must navigate a world of ancient wonder and dinosaurs?! That’s right! A super grumpy, chaos-loving alien octopus known as Sad Face, is intent on destroying Earth by transporting prehistoric creatures into future timelines, with the help of a modified time twister device!
Can Winston, with the help of ancient allies and a surprise assist from a certain naughty ninja cat, stop Sad Face before he unleashes intergalactic mayhem and turns history into his own personal movie set?
Prepare for a laugh-out-loud, action-packed adventure filled with:
⏳🚀 Time-traveling escapades
🦖👽 Epic action packed chases with prehistoric beasts and alien villains
🧠🧩 Clever riddles and mind-bending challenges
❤️😂 Heart warming friendships and hilarious antics
🐶🐱 And a whole lot of canine and feline courage!
Perfect for young readers aged 6 to 10 years and families who love dogs, cats, dinosaurs, ancient history, and a good dose of intergalactic fun. Join Winston on his wildest adventure yet! From the imagination of a 7 year old.
Grab your copy of Adventures In Ancient Egypt today!
UK Book Band : Brown Level (7+ Year olds)
Year Group 3+
Oxford Reading Level 12
Big Cat Band : Copper
Suitable for shared reading for kids (Ages 5+) that love dinosaurs and adventure with parents and carers
Choo Choo Dino Crew
Choo Choo Dino Crew takes young readers on a delightful and imaginative journey filled with adventure, learning, and heartwarming lessons. Stark and Vivi set out to meet fascinating prehistoric creatures like the spiky stegosaurus and the towering and elegant brachiosaurus. Through their interactions, Stark and Vivi discover not only the uniqueness of their dino friends but also valuable lessons about friendship, diversity, and embracing their individuality.
The story stands out with its rhythmic and playful rhyming scheme, which captures the attention of young readers while subtly teaching them about the art of rhyme. This engaging children’s book is more than just an adventure, it’s an educational dive into the prehistoric era. Stark and Vivi’s encounters introduce children to a variety of dinosaur species and their distinctive traits, fostering curiosity and a love for learning about nature and history. For example, young readers will marvel at the spiky armor of the stegosaurus or the long neck of the brachiosaurus, all while appreciating how every dinosaur’s unique features make them special.
Beyond its scientific tidbits, this kid’s book excels in delivering universal messages about kindness, compassion, and open-mindedness. Stark and Vivi model these values as they celebrate the differences among their new friends, teaching children the importance of seeing beauty in diversity. These lessons are seamlessly woven into the storyline, making them easy for young readers to grasp and apply in their own lives.
The vibrant illustrations add another layer of enchantment to the picture book. Each page is a visual feast, full of bold colors and charming details that bring the prehistoric world to life. These illustrations invite young readers to linger on each page, sparking conversations and inspiring questions that parents can explore with their children. By combining the excitement of a train adventure with the wonders of the dinosaur world, the book offers an irresistible package for curious young minds.
Choo Choo Dino Crew is a gem of a children’s book. Its engaging storytelling, lyrical rhymes, and valuable life lessons make it a standout choice for young readers. Whether your child loves dinosaurs, trains, or tales about friendship, this book promises to entertain, educate, and inspire.
Pages: 18 | ISBN : 1962202968
I Have Many Layers
The Adventures of Rynnie Roo and Tater, Too! Yucatan follows a kangaroo and her parakeet friend as they explore the Yucatan jungle and make new friends. What inspired you to write this story?
Thinking about my childhood after the birth of my granddaughter.
I was raised in the Yucatán jungle. I thought about how different her memories would be from mine.
What educational aspects were important for you to include in this children’s book?
New vocabulary words, because growing our lingual pallet is a huge stepping stone, and confidence builder. Facts about new animals from other places, and of course dinosaurs.
Are there any books or authors that inspired you to become a writer?
Not really inspired by them but I enjoy reading them. Since I write children’s books and I like crime fiction. We can say I have many layers.
I collect Sherlock Holmes the old dusty books pre 1900.
I find enjoyable entertainment in Perry Mason, Mrs. Marple, Murder she wrote, I’m an old soul when it comes to reading a good book.
Authors: Sir Conan Doyle, Erle Stanley Gardener, Agatha Christie, Jessica Fletcher & Donald Bain.
Where does the next book in the series take the characters?
We are heading to Alabama!
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Instagram | Website
In this book, kids will learn about the Mayan Indian language still spoken in this part of Mexico, including how to say “please” and “thank you.” Be sure you check out Rynnie Roo’s Adventures for more locations and learning fun!
The Adventures of Rynnie Roo & Tater, Too! Yucatán
In The Adventures of Rynnie Roo and Tater, Too! Yucatan, author and illustrator Jean Johnson introduces young readers to the enchanting world of Rynnie Roo, a spirited kangaroo, and her amiable friend, Tater Tot the parakeet. Their excursion to Mexico’s Yucatan Jungle forms the crux of this delightful narrative, blending adventure with the wholesome message of politeness. The duo sets a playful challenge to see who can use “please” and “thank you” more frequently, turning courtesy into an engaging game. Their journey through the jungle is not just a solitary experience; they encounter unique characters like Blakelita, a coatimundi, part of the raccoon family, and Jungle Bob, a caretaker of the region’s fauna and flora.
An educational aspect seamlessly woven into the storyline is the introduction of Spanish and Mayan languages, which Rynnie Roo and Tater Tot endeavor to learn, adding “please” and “thank you” into their new linguistic repertoire. The narrative keeps readers wondering what other fascinating animals the pair might meet next.
A notable strength of this book is its subtle educational quality. Johnson skillfully introduces language learning and native wildlife knowledge to young minds, fostering an awareness of cultural and ecological diversity in an entertaining manner. This approach enables children to absorb new information effortlessly, almost without realizing they are learning.
Jean Johnson’s illustrations deserve special mention. Her vibrant and immersive artwork transports readers into the heart of the Yucatan Jungle, complementing the story’s lively spirit. The illustrations are a visual treat, enhancing the narrative and making the book an engaging experience for children.
This third installment in the Rynnie Roo’s Adventures series is aptly suited for the intended age group of babies to 6 years. Its blend of adventure, learning, and captivating visuals makes it an excellent choice for young readers. The Adventures of Rynnie Roo and Tater, Too! Yucatan is a commendable addition to children’s literature, combining entertainment with education in a charming way.
Pages: 35 | ASIN : B0CLB4FH2X
