If You Were Raised by a Dinosaur by Isabella Brooklyn, illustrated by Haude Levesque Ages 7-12 80 pages Imagine!/Charlesbridge August 2010 Hardcover     Focusing on how dinosaurs cared for their young, Isabella Brooklyn writes a detailed narrative discussing recent paleontological discoveries which support various theories about dinosaur families. The book goes into some detail about how scientific theory has changed based on new discoveries, commonalities between different types of dinosaurs and their living descendents. Much of the information is based on what scientists have learned from dinosaur bones, combined with their footprints and characteristics of teeth. Likewise, the theories also gain strength based on observations of modern animals and similarities they have with dinosaurs. Brilliant, full-color, computer-aided graphic illustrations bring the images of dinosaur families alive. A glossary, pronunciation guide and index complete the book. Although the title and cover illustrations will appeal to a younger elementary audience, this is not a book for those with a casual or primary interest but rather is a strong resource for more serious elementary or middle school research. The chapters are fairly long; organized with pages of text facing illustrations with a few diagrams, cutaways, captions and close-ups. The reading level is relatively high, structured as a long essay for children. The illustrations provide an additional level of understanding, much like an animated movie with texture and depth. Overall, If You Were Raised by a Dinosaur is an interesting, detailed look at one particular subset of knowledge about dinosaurs. Recommended for dinosaur enthusiasts.     web reviews   Kristine Wildner/2011 for curled up with a good kid's book   For grown-up fiction, nonfiction and speculative fiction book reviews, visit our sister site Curled Up With a Good Book (www.curledup.com)