Yasuda, Anita. The Crazy Clues.

Yasuda, Anita.  The Crazy Clues.  Capstone/Stone Arch  2014  32p  ISBN 978-1-4342-5971-4  series: Dino Detectives  preK-elem  E    Mystery/Detective

This first entry into the mystery genre is a book for independent reading by emerging readers.  It would have been a book of note, except that our committee gives that designation only to books suitable for grades 5-12.

Dot has to be the cutest dinosaur around.  Her swimsuit, goggles and swim cap show that she is ready for her swimming lesson.  Her mom and brother are equally visually appealing.  The names of the four dinosaurs in the series are well thought out and represent the type of dinosaur each one is.  This book is perfect for independent reading for emerging readers, with a glossary on the last page.  The mystery format will introduce young readers to that genre, with the posing of a problem to be solved, clues along the way, and finally, the resolution of the mystery.  This is a first-rate addition to early-reader

collections.

Summary: The dinosaurs are adorable, adorned with headsets, i-pods, swimsuits and goggles.  This book will appeal to young readers from preschool through grade 2.   

Mystery-Fiction, Dinosaurs-Fiction                  --Lois McNicol

Dodson, Peter. Diplodocus Up Close

Dodson, Peter Diplodocus Up Close
Enslow 2011 24 15.95 978-0-7660-3333-7
elem VG-BNes Zoom in on Dinosaurs


This is a book about diplodocus dinosaurs for the very youngest researcher, with illustrations, facts, vocabulary words, and references for further information. This is a well written book for the very youngest child, pre-K to grade 2 or so. After that, a child will want a little more detail, including some sort of idea about the time frame for dinosaur life, which this book does not include. The format is attractive, the “words to know” section is welcome, and the “learn more” section, illustrations, and index will introduce the young child to these concepts painlessly. Kennedy, Carol