What do you think?
Rate this book
Dinosaur vs.
Dinosaur vs. the Library
Dinosaur is going to one of his favorite places: the library! On the way, he invites his friends--a lonesome turtle, a sad owl and more-- to roar along with him. But how will his roaring go over at the library? Has Dinosaur finally met his match in Storytime? By combining everyone's favorite feisty red dinosaur with a variety of animals and a celebration of reading, author-illustrator-designer Bob Shea has created another irresistable romp for toddlers and parents to enjoy together.
40 pages, Hardcover
First published September 27, 2011
2 people are currently reading
449 people want to read
About the author
Bob Shea
54 books354 followersBob Shea has written and illustrated over a dozen picture books including the popular Dinosaur vs. Bedtime and the cult favorite Big Plans illustrated by Lane Smith.
His characters and animations have appeared on Nick Jr, Playhouse Disney and PBS Kids.
Bob spends his days writing, drawing and having “conversations” with NPR.
His characters and animations have appeared on Nick Jr, Playhouse Disney and PBS Kids.
Bob spends his days writing, drawing and having “conversations” with NPR.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 256 reviews
July 29, 2016
This is the best book in the series yet. When dinosaur visits the library will he remember to use his "inside roar"? The illustration of Dinosaur trying to stay quiet during storytime is priceless! You'll have to read it to see whether Dinosaur or the Library wins, but one thing's for certain... the reader is definitely wins by checking out this excellent picture book.
February 8, 2025
Dinosaurs like to go to the library...I KNEW IT! Great book in this wonderful series. Something about dinos just doing what we do has always appealed to me. Sure it has to do with me wanting to be a paleontologist when I was a small boy. Bob Shea does a great job of connecting us through the experiences of dinos.
November 22, 2011
My four year old is the reason for the 4 stars. I wasn't completely sold, but he went nuts. He read it for a solid 45 minutes in bed tonight, complete with gigantic roars.
Sometimes I feel like in order to understand a books quality you need to read it to its intended audience.
Sometimes I feel like in order to understand a books quality you need to read it to its intended audience.
March 26, 2019
Hasta el dinosaurio más ruidoso e imperactivo sabe que en la biblioteca se guarda silencio.
December 3, 2011
Like other reviewers, I wanted more library in this library book! I did notice that all the animals he met on the way TO the library showed up as friends at storytime, so there was a slight connection between the walk to the library and the library itself. The "inside roar" is good, as is "Okay, they both win" at the end. The first one is the best!
July 17, 2014
January 9, 2013
I am charmed by the small growly dino. He is up against a worthy opponent.
***
July 11, 2014
My favorite of the series, because library.
Library copy.
I am charmed by the small growly dino. He is up against a worthy opponent.
***
July 11, 2014
My favorite of the series, because library.
Library copy.
August 18, 2015
I was going to go with three stars, but we turned the page and *gasp* there was ballet cat. My 7 yr. old and I were both so excited, that was a 5 star moment!
October 10, 2011
We've read both Dinosaur vs. Bedtime and Dinosaur vs. the Potty and while our girls are getting a little too big for these books, they still find them to be quite humorous. The loud roaring and the all-too apt description of toddler/preschooler behavior is fun. And since the dinosaur is the one with the focus on him, children won't feel like the spotlight is on their own behavior.
We saw the author, Bob Shea, at the 2011 National Book Festival at the National Mall in Washington DC on 25 September, and we just had to put this book on hold. It was an entertaining story and we enjoyed roaring together as we read it aloud. And it's about a visit to the library, always a plus for me!
We saw the author, Bob Shea, at the 2011 National Book Festival at the National Mall in Washington DC on 25 September, and we just had to put this book on hold. It was an entertaining story and we enjoyed roaring together as we read it aloud. And it's about a visit to the library, always a plus for me!
February 29, 2012
As a Children's librarian, I LOVE this book!
As the dinosaur makes his way to the library, he meets many shy and quiet animals. After having a roaring contest with each of them, he's left them in quite a tizzy. And now, they're all roaring, too! But once he arrives at the library for storytime, he has to choose whether or not he will have a roaring contest with his library friends.
The illustrations in this book are phenomenal and I felt as though I could really relate to the book. Although the department is usually quiet, sometimes after storytime has been let out, you begin to wonder if each child has just a tiny bit of roaring dinosaur inside. :)
As the dinosaur makes his way to the library, he meets many shy and quiet animals. After having a roaring contest with each of them, he's left them in quite a tizzy. And now, they're all roaring, too! But once he arrives at the library for storytime, he has to choose whether or not he will have a roaring contest with his library friends.
The illustrations in this book are phenomenal and I felt as though I could really relate to the book. Although the department is usually quiet, sometimes after storytime has been let out, you begin to wonder if each child has just a tiny bit of roaring dinosaur inside. :)
November 2, 2011
My first "Dinosaur vs." book. I think I may be missing a few things about it, but it was still fun. I loved all the roaring and the animals with their roars. Some of the story didn't flow for me. I'd have to think how to read this with the kids (besides having them roar along). Loved the pictures--some of the expressions, especially of the dinosaur near the end, were great!
December 5, 2014
This is a fantastic read-aloud for preschool listeners. Bright illustrations and a big roaring dinosaur make this a great participation story. Also there is a gentle reminder about storytime manners thrown in.
November 4, 2011
Happy National Picture Book Month! Perfect to kick off the month with.
January 22, 2018
Once again, I just kind of wish there was more here for storytime use. I think kids will like these, but they are a bit repetitive and fluffy for me to want to use them.
July 23, 2025
My three year old loved when I read this to him
May 28, 2015
Horn Book Guide Spring 2012
"Roar! Roar! Roar!" cries the cheeky red dinosaur making his way to the library. Told to use his "inside roar," the easily excitable dino manages a dull roar. However, he soon meets his ultimate challenge--storytime--leading to the question: "Can Dinosaur not roar for a whole story?" Bold, expressive black lines and pops of color display the endearing dino's dilemma.
Kirkus Reviews August 1, 2011
Shea's irrepressible hero returns-stubby, red and toothier than ever. Dinosaur has faced tremendous obstacles in his first few years of growing up (Dinosaur vs. Bedtime, 2008; Dinosaur vs. the Potty, 2010). So far only two things have ever proven to be worthy opponents. Until now. On his way to one of his most favorite places-the library-Dinosaur meets new animal friends. He convinces each one, from a flock of tiny chicks to a shy turtle and a hopelessly sobbing owl, to loudly ROAR along with him. Dinosaur wins every time! (He is no bully though; his opponents are clearly enjoying this roaring game.) But upon reaching the library, Dinosaur is met with an excruciating task. He must be quiet ... for an entire story. Hands clamped tightly over his mouth and eyes popping with exertion, Dinosaur worries. Can he do it? The power of a story wins! Observant readers will spot familiar characters amid Shea's bold, expressive scrawls, and everyone will cheer the library's success. Story time may have conquered Dinosaur, but with boisterous noise and boundless energy, Shea's Dinosaur titles will never fail to be read-aloud hits. Dinosaur wins again! (Just deny it if he ever asks.) (Picture book. 3-5)
School Library Journal August 1, 2011
PreS-Gr 2-This third adventure of the roaring red reptile finds the scrappy contender setting out to roar his way to the library. Along the way, Dinosaur makes stealthy advances on a variety of unwary animals and succeeds in recruiting them as roarers, too. However, when he arrives at the library, he is told, "Use your inside roar!" Will Dinosaur be able to restrain himself during storytime? This episode is a bit disjointed compared to the previous ones, and it lacks the appeal of Dinosaur's triumphs over the more-routine childhood nemeses, like bedtime, bath time, and the potty. However children will still enjoy the spunky hero. Young readers will be captivated by the visual feast of bold, black strokes set off by bright primary colors and text that practically jumps off the page. The repetitive roaring makes this book well-suited as an interactive read-aloud.-Debbie Lewis, Alachua County Library District, FL (c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
"Roar! Roar! Roar!" cries the cheeky red dinosaur making his way to the library. Told to use his "inside roar," the easily excitable dino manages a dull roar. However, he soon meets his ultimate challenge--storytime--leading to the question: "Can Dinosaur not roar for a whole story?" Bold, expressive black lines and pops of color display the endearing dino's dilemma.
Kirkus Reviews August 1, 2011
Shea's irrepressible hero returns-stubby, red and toothier than ever. Dinosaur has faced tremendous obstacles in his first few years of growing up (Dinosaur vs. Bedtime, 2008; Dinosaur vs. the Potty, 2010). So far only two things have ever proven to be worthy opponents. Until now. On his way to one of his most favorite places-the library-Dinosaur meets new animal friends. He convinces each one, from a flock of tiny chicks to a shy turtle and a hopelessly sobbing owl, to loudly ROAR along with him. Dinosaur wins every time! (He is no bully though; his opponents are clearly enjoying this roaring game.) But upon reaching the library, Dinosaur is met with an excruciating task. He must be quiet ... for an entire story. Hands clamped tightly over his mouth and eyes popping with exertion, Dinosaur worries. Can he do it? The power of a story wins! Observant readers will spot familiar characters amid Shea's bold, expressive scrawls, and everyone will cheer the library's success. Story time may have conquered Dinosaur, but with boisterous noise and boundless energy, Shea's Dinosaur titles will never fail to be read-aloud hits. Dinosaur wins again! (Just deny it if he ever asks.) (Picture book. 3-5)
School Library Journal August 1, 2011
PreS-Gr 2-This third adventure of the roaring red reptile finds the scrappy contender setting out to roar his way to the library. Along the way, Dinosaur makes stealthy advances on a variety of unwary animals and succeeds in recruiting them as roarers, too. However, when he arrives at the library, he is told, "Use your inside roar!" Will Dinosaur be able to restrain himself during storytime? This episode is a bit disjointed compared to the previous ones, and it lacks the appeal of Dinosaur's triumphs over the more-routine childhood nemeses, like bedtime, bath time, and the potty. However children will still enjoy the spunky hero. Young readers will be captivated by the visual feast of bold, black strokes set off by bright primary colors and text that practically jumps off the page. The repetitive roaring makes this book well-suited as an interactive read-aloud.-Debbie Lewis, Alachua County Library District, FL (c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2014
The ending of Dinosaur vs. the Library was a bit of a letdown, and you could tell by the reactions of the storytime kids, but overall, it was the most successful book of the books/libraries themed storytime. It mainly consists of roaring like a dinosaur, and I made sure that every time the dinosaur roared (almost everyone at storytime was over five and could read already, so they knew when the ROAR!s were coming), they made a "scary dinosaur face" and ROARed their little hearts out. Much of it consists of pairing dinosaur in a fight against various animals: baby chicks (peep peep peep), a sad owl (boo hoo hoo!), a cow (moo moo moo), and finally, as you can guess from the title, the library. Dinosaur is admonished to use his "inside roar" and finally, challenged not to roar for an entire storytime. (So I guess the library wins because Dinosaur was forced to be quiet?) It's a little cheesy, but the roaring more than makes up for it. Plus, it was fun making the kids do an "inside roar." This made an excellent lead in for storytime. It's kind of impossible to mess this one up, so long as it's read with enthusiasm.
Ages 2-6
Would work well for a library class orientation, dinosaurs, or library themed storytime.
Ages 2-6
Would work well for a library class orientation, dinosaurs, or library themed storytime.
October 15, 2016
Dinosaur takes a walk to the library and meets friends along the way. He wins with his animal friends and everyone starts roaring. At the library, the roars need to quiet and can a dinosaur roar during a story?
It's fun to roar along with Dinosaur. We practice all types of roars - loud, soft, small, etc. It is also important to count and roar so it's not just a dino zoo. The end of the book show which book they listened to at the library - New Socks by Bob Shea. (Another fun story to share at storytime.)
2013 Storytime Theme: Dinosaurs
2016 Storytime Theme: Bob Shea
Reviewed from a library copy.
It's fun to roar along with Dinosaur. We practice all types of roars - loud, soft, small, etc. It is also important to count and roar so it's not just a dino zoo. The end of the book show which book they listened to at the library - New Socks by Bob Shea. (Another fun story to share at storytime.)
2013 Storytime Theme: Dinosaurs
2016 Storytime Theme: Bob Shea
Reviewed from a library copy.
August 14, 2012
Errol read this to me. Errol is amazing and an amazing book reader. Ooh ah. This book is also pretty nice and great. Especially the illustrations and the very very bold color choices. The narrative is fairly absurd throughout and devolves into nonsense in the best way ever at the end. A great book for weirdo parents and weirdo kids and weirdos period. Read: Us. And Sharka.
P.S. Errol's special note: Dinosaurs Rule.
P.S. Errol's special note: Dinosaurs Rule.
November 1, 2021
Update, 11/1/21:
I've read it five times now. With the current, very young, storytime audience I have this year in mind - I like it better.
I still don't get the dino drinking the cow's milk.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ok, I've read this four times now.
I don't get it.
Is the dinosaur scaring the other animals? Is he teaching them how to roar?
Is he drinking the cow's milk?!
I don't get it.
I've read it five times now. With the current, very young, storytime audience I have this year in mind - I like it better.
I still don't get the dino drinking the cow's milk.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ok, I've read this four times now.
I don't get it.
Is the dinosaur scaring the other animals? Is he teaching them how to roar?
Is he drinking the cow's milk?!
I don't get it.
November 29, 2012
Appeal Characteristics: THE LIBRARIAN ALWAYS WIN! Child Behaviors, Story Time etiquette, Great animal concept
If you have a noisy kid in storytime, or have a parent asking about story-time etiquette...this is the book! I loved the fact he was louder than all the other "animals" (kids) on his way to the library...but at the library... :) Well I'll leave that up to you to find out!
If you have a noisy kid in storytime, or have a parent asking about story-time etiquette...this is the book! I loved the fact he was louder than all the other "animals" (kids) on his way to the library...but at the library... :) Well I'll leave that up to you to find out!
March 11, 2015
The pictures were cute, but I wasn't quite sold on the "battles". I personally would rather have a dinosaur come into the library and roar, instead of screaming kids, people with loud ringtones, people talking too loudly on their cellphones, and patrons who argue loudly over any- and everything. I don't have to do story time, though. :)
June 19, 2020
Adorable. Roar!
May 8, 2015
Dinosaur vs.... maybe hes just a dick with a huge ego.
Guess what? I win!
Guess what? I win!
May 9, 2015
Roar...mediocrity wins. It was meh! I liked it but a little anti climactic.
November 28, 2018
This was a super cute book for library-themed storytime! It would have been perfect had I not lost my voice at the first ROAR. Oops.
October 13, 2016
A cute and silly way of teaching children what we do in libraries. Great for toddlers, as it's not a difficult plot.
November 7, 2016
Loved all the books in this series
December 23, 2016
Cute! I love the word/picture balance and how little he has to write.
November 30, 2017
Awards the book has received (if any):none
Appropriate grade level(s):1-3rd
Original 3-line summary: Our favorite little dinosaur faces a new mission - the library! He calls on all his friends to go to story time in the library, but with his loud roaring in the hallways, how will he know how to act in the library.
Original 3-line review: This is another book within a series that is good for children. I like the topic of it because there is not a lot of books that help learn/ teach children how to act in a public space. All in all its really cute, and its helpful for children that the animation is similar to ones on TV.
2-3 possible in-class uses:- Help children know how to act in a library
- teaches children to not always do what your friends do
Appropriate grade level(s):1-3rd
Original 3-line summary: Our favorite little dinosaur faces a new mission - the library! He calls on all his friends to go to story time in the library, but with his loud roaring in the hallways, how will he know how to act in the library.
Original 3-line review: This is another book within a series that is good for children. I like the topic of it because there is not a lot of books that help learn/ teach children how to act in a public space. All in all its really cute, and its helpful for children that the animation is similar to ones on TV.
2-3 possible in-class uses:- Help children know how to act in a library
- teaches children to not always do what your friends do
December 28, 2022
Update, 11/1/21:
I've read it five times now. With the current, very young, storytime audience I have this year in mind - I like it better.
I still don't get the dino drinking the cow's milk.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ok, I've read this four times now.
I don't get it.
Is the dinosaur scaring the other animals? Is he teaching them how to roar?
Is he drinking the cow's milk?!
I don't get it.
I've read it five times now. With the current, very young, storytime audience I have this year in mind - I like it better.
I still don't get the dino drinking the cow's milk.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ok, I've read this four times now.
I don't get it.
Is the dinosaur scaring the other animals? Is he teaching them how to roar?
Is he drinking the cow's milk?!
I don't get it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 256 reviews