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Encyclopedia Prehistorica: Sharks and Other Sea Monsters (by Matthew Reinhart)

common sense media says

Stunning paper-art makes non-fiction pop.


parents & educators say

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this pop-up book is a work of art sure to fascinate most kids, but it's too delicate for rough handling. Because sometimes scary-looking animals literally leap out of the page, young kids might want to take a look at this from the safety of a parent's lap.

Positive messages: Not applicable.
Violence: Not applicable.
Sex: Not applicable.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.

More on Encyclopedia Prehistorica: Sharks and Other Sea Monsters

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about the artistry of the book -- how do the paper engineers put it all together? They may want to try to make their own moving paper sculptures. Parents can use this book to talk about how modern-day animals are similar or dissimilar to their ancient relatives.

What's the story?

What's the story?
A detailed pop-up encyclopedia of prehistoric sea life, this non-fiction book is more than a novelty. The research and reporting meets the high standards set by the book's incredible paper engineering.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

The illustrations in the book are literally eye-popping. Complex paper sculptures leap out from the center of each two-page spread, unfolding as the reader leafs through the book. Don't be fooled by the reported 12 pages -- the corners of each page have miniature books with smaller pop-ups with more detailed information. The result is a true encyclopedic take on prehistoric sea creatures that lives up to the high standard set by the illustrations.

The text is dry, as befits its scientific subject, and is likely to keep the attention of only the most devoted fans of prehistoric creatures. Happily, with 3-D illustrations as enticing as these, the Paleozoic era is likely to win some new enthusiasts. Even if they skip the bulk of the text, kids are likely to learn something just by spending time examining the intricate paper engineering.

Book themes & details

Book Details
Author: Matthew Reinhart
Illustrator: Robert Sabuda
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Publication date: August 11, 2006
Number of pages: 12
Hardcover price: $39.00
Read Aloud: 7
Read Alone: 8

This review was written by Dawn Friedman
 
 

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About our rating system
ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
OFF: Not age appropriate for kids this age