"Little Kids First Big Book of Dinosaurs"

Book: National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book of Dinosaurs by Catherine Hughes.

Target audience: Probably age 4 and up

Topic: Dinosaurs

Basic summary: With beautiful illustrations, National Geographic briefly describes over 50 dinosaurs based on size from small to gigantic.

Let's face it, kids love dinos. Our household has read many, many books about them. This book has captured my 5-year-old's interest like no other has. He loves the pictures (as do I). Each double-page spread includes a couple of fun facts, short description, and a question to ask your child, like "Can you think of another animal that is a fierce hunter?" Also fun is the diagram for each dinosaur that compares it to the size of a person. Helpfully, there is a pronunciation for each dino name (which my son doesn't need, but I sure do!).

We work through this book in short sections each night (the entire book is a little much for one sitting), but I haven't found a dino fact book as entertaining for parent and child like this one. It's a true stand-out in its genre.

Like this book? Try this game: "Dino Duel". It's a simplified version of the card game 'War' featuring three dinosaurs. Minimal counting and no reading required. Available at Piccolo Mondo Toys.