School Library Journal Review
YAA dinosaur book that is equal parts spectacular color photography and interesting informative text. Psihoyos introduces the important figures of modern paleontology (e.g. Bob Bakker, on whose theories Jurassic Park was based), and more unusual researchers such as dinosaur trackers, and even an expert on dinosaur dung. The author is a natural storyteller, managing to convey the importance of the science with the humor and exuberance of an Indiana Jones movie. For example, the story of what happens when Psihoyos and his assistant bring the remains of Edward Drinker Cope, the father of American paleontology, with them on their travels, makes for an unusual and offbeat introduction that sets the tone for the rest of the book. This wry perspective is apparent in the illustrations as well, in which specimens are filmed in quirky, yet oddly natural poses. Other photos reveal insights about the difficulties involved with digging up the past as the researchers hang off the edge of cliffs to obtain a specimen or try to rescue a Tyrannosaurus from the FBI. The author's enthusiasm for the lives of his subjects will inspire future scientists, making this an excellent choice for career exploration as well as for booktalks to general audiences. Lots of dino info, related with a grin, and wrapped in a beautiful slick format make Hunting Dinosaurs a must for every library.-Robin Deffendall, Prince William Public Library System, Manassas, VA (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
