Dinosaur Expert

Reviewed by: Kathy George - Gray Public Library, Gray, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: October 9, 2018

Review

More fun and exploration in Mr. Tiffin's class. readers have been to Mr. T's class in McNamara's previous books, How Many Seeds in a Pumpkin,The Apple Orchard Riddle, and A Poem in Your Pocket. This time the reader joins the class on a field trip to the Museum of Natural History where they are to experience all things dinosaur. Kimmy is passionate about dinosaurs and shares her knowledge with her classmates until a fellow student informs her that girls cannot t be paleontologists. To prove it- he shows her the names credited with the fossil discoveries and they are indeed all men. Kimmy is brought to silence until a savvy Mr. Tiffin shows her a special exhibit. McNamara's strength in this series of books is dispensing information on a chosen subject in a manner the reader can understand and acknowledging that the students in the class possess both strengths and weaknesses. He helps guide them to be their best selves. Brian Karas's signature illustrations brings Mr. Tiffin's class to life. this book can be used in a STEAM unit on dinosaurs, feelings,girls can be anything, and navigating a classrooom. A good choice for your library.

Overall Book Score: excellent