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Brianosaurus

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From the author of Bird Hugs, a story about being yourself, even if that means becoming a new kind of dinosaur!

Brian loves dinosaurs. When he discovers that frogs were around when dinosaurs were alive, he decides that makes him a dinosaur—a Brianosaurus, in fact. At first, it’s fun. But his woodland friends think he should roar all the time, not use trampolines or read books. And the frogs think he’s making the pond look bad. So Brianosaurus decides to act exactly the way they want. The trouble is, he isn’t happy…until he decides to be himself.

Kindle Edition

Published April 2, 2024

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About the author

Ged Adamson

33 books71 followers
Ged Adamson is a British picture-book author and artist. He has worked as a cartoonist, a storyboard artist, and a composer for television and film. He grew up in Liverpool and now lives in London with his partner, Helen, and their son, Rex.

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5 stars
64 (38%)
4 stars
64 (38%)
3 stars
31 (18%)
2 stars
5 (2%)
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3 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
Profile Image for Francisca.
248 reviews120 followers
February 27, 2024
Brian Frog loves dinosaurs—don’t we all?

When he learns that, millions of years ago, frogs coexisted with them, Brian decides to become a dinosaur himself.

That’s how he became Brianosaurus.

But the frogs aren’t happy about one of them suddenly identifying himself as a dinosaur. And just as bad, the forest animals (a.k.a. Brian’s friends), who until now seemed to have accepted Brianosaurus as he is, now are not very willing to let him do what he wants to do because of their “that’s not what dinosaurs do…” preconceived ideas.

Poor Brian is left to choose between being who he truly is but lose all his frog friends, being who he wants to be and never do any of the things he likes, or giving up his saurus side to fit in among the other forest creatures.

This is a really sweet book that may help children realize that we can and should be who we truly are and do what we love to do as long as we respect the true-self and interests of others. This is a book about acceptance and recognition, of who we are and what we like.

I love the illustrations in this book, and the kind of graphic novel style for the dialogue and storytelling, makes it very engaging. And the soft but vibrant color palette complements it all nicely.

The story feels a tiny tad too messagey (a.k.a. a bit on the nose) but that doesn’t make it any less readable. On the contrary, this is both a heartfelt and funny story filled with little moments that would make bedtime reading a wonderful experience.

Adamson took great care to explain a complex subject in a way that any child can understand and he did it without preaching, giving children a good opportunity to consider their feelings about who they are and how that relates to what they like to do.

All in all, a lovely book.
Profile Image for Mary   Beth.
336 reviews52 followers
January 25, 2024
A fantastic book for young readers! The illustrations are vibrant and very appealing while the story is easy to follow and relatable.

The message of this delightful book is very well conveyed to young children. It shows it's okay to be yourself and not worrying about what others think of your individuality. This is done in a very positive and uplifting way.

I read this book to a three year old and a five year old. They enjoyed it very much. The three year old was pulled in by the bright, fun illustrations and loved it when Brian roared. While the five year old felt sad for Brian when the other frogs complained that he was just a frog and not a dinosaur but she was very happy at the end quickly asking if we could read it again. We discussed why it was okay for Brian to be a dinosaur even though others were against him.

I highly recommend this delightful children's book especially for children ages three to seven but could be enjoyed by older children also.

I am grateful to Two Lions and Netgalley for granting me the opportunity to read a digital ARC of this beautiful children's book.
Profile Image for S.A. Krishnan.
Author 31 books238 followers
July 2, 2024
Enjoyable fun and deep tale
Brian the frog wanted to be a dinosaur and suddenly he ended up being a dinosaur. But the frogs and the other animals have a list of things that a dinosaur can or cannot do. The other forest animals also seem to tell him how a dinosaur should behave.
Cute story, lovely illustrations to make children understand a simple and deep fact. Enjoyed reading it.
Profile Image for A Robin Reads.
161 reviews58 followers
February 26, 2024
Amazing! Loved this so much. The drawing style is really fun. I really liked how the story was written and set up. Absolutely loved the message and it was very relatable. A delight!
Profile Image for Julia✨Book Reviews by Jules✨.
483 reviews56 followers
March 30, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with this book for free in exchange for my review! All opinions are my own.

This was a very charming and entertaining story that also teaches children important life lessons that they should be learning at an early age. I also really enjoyed the illustrations. They were eye catching. I can see this book being popular with children. I recommend this one for families to read together.


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Profile Image for Annie.
4,829 reviews89 followers
January 18, 2024
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.

Brianosaurus is an adorable illustrated book for the youngest readers written and illustrated by Ged Adamson. Due out 2nd April 2024 from Brilliance (Amazon) on their Two Lions imprint, it's 40 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book will be included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free.

The illustrations are whimsical, beautiful, and colorfully appealing. There are lots of small details (like the tiny insects) which invite readers to stop and take a closer look. The text is in simple free verse and easy enough for new readers to master and understand. It's also a great candidate for a read along in the classroom (with "roar-alongs" from students) or a read-together with an older sibling or adult.

The basic message of being yourself, individuality, love of reading/learning, and diversity are all positively presented in a simple and accessible manner.

Five stars. A delightful read and it would make a great selection for public, school, or classroom acquisition, home use, or gift giving.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Profile Image for Freya.
302 reviews75 followers
March 17, 2024
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with this arc in exchange for my honest review.

Such a cute cover!! I love the soft colors and cuteness of the illustrations inside too.

This little book has lots of animals and a great message.

Brian loves reading and dinosaurs so when he reads about frogs already being around when dinosaurs were and he tells his friends, one of them says that that kind of means Brian is a dinosaur. This leads to Brian dressing up as a dinosaur and becoming Brianosaurus.

But soon all the other animals have opinions about it.. And about how he should act. This is so frustrating for Brian and when he decides to ignore them, it even leads to the animals fighting about how/what he should be until Brian shouts: “No, I’m me!!!!”. What follows after that was a little too sweet for my liking but the ending was great! And I loved the message of just being yourself :).
Profile Image for Stacey Miller .
150 reviews14 followers
February 26, 2024
Brian is a frog.

When he finds that frogs were around when the dinosaurs roamed, he decides he would like to tap into his dinosaur self.

The only problem is, being himself, doesn't make him a fan favorite with the other frogs OR with the other forest creatures. The frogs want him to be "more" frog. The forest animals want him to be "more" dinosaur.

Until he says enough and chooses to be exactly who he wants to be, pointing out how the other animals haven't been accepting him.

Because he deserves to be appreciated for who he is. Who he is, is enough.

The story is really sweet, the message is valuable and the illustrations are endearing and vibrant. My little guy who loves dinosaurs was especially delighted by Brian's dinosaur "costume" and is pretty sure he needs one now too.
Profile Image for Donna Maguire.
5,723 reviews125 followers
September 8, 2024
https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...

I read this book with my daughter and we both really enjoyed it

I liked the illustrations, they were very cute and in keeping with the story - she is a massive fan of dinosaurs s I guessed this one would be a hit with her, and I was correct!

We liked the mix of characters and how the book was written, she was 6 when we read it and it was perfect for her, she can read independently and enjoys a book she can read without help too

I liked the messages that Brian doesn't need to change and that he ends up happy as he is at the end, a great concept and delivered well.

It is 4.5 stars from me for this one, rounded up to 5 stars for Goodreads and Amazon - very highly recommended!
Profile Image for Therearenobadbooks.
2,054 reviews106 followers
February 9, 2024
Ahah This is such a fun read and very witty. Brian discovers that there were frogs during dino times so he decides to become one, Roarrr... while the forest animals love the idea, it doesn't go well after a while because they expect him to act as a dino not as a frog or like Brian at all. In the pond, things do not go well either. The other frogs don't want a dino around, they are frogs. The first solution that Brian finds doesn't work either, but both the pond and the forest animals realize they are being mean. The last solution is the best. Love the simple but filled with fun and loud illustrations. This is such a great and fun read to remind us of being to accept others and be more ourselves.
Thank you NetGalley and Publisher for this e-arc.
Profile Image for Ivonne Rovira.
2,633 reviews261 followers
January 29, 2024
When Brian the frog discovers that frogs co-existed with dinosaurs, he gets an inspiration: He must be some type of dinosaur himself! He throws on a dinosaur costume and begins roaring away. Other forest animals were thrilled, but back at the pond, his fellow frogs were nothing but negative.

But even his forest friends wanted to police what dinosaurs do and don’t do. What’s an aspiring dinosaur to do? Brian’s resolution will put a smile on any reader’s face, young or old. Roar!

In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Two Lions in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Katie.
512 reviews6 followers
January 29, 2024
Brianosaurus is a delightful story about a frog who learns his ancestors were around at the time of dinosaurs. As Brian explores his new dinosaur identity, he starts to struggle to be who his friends and family expect him to be.

This is a bright, cheery story about discovering the magic of being yourself. The prose is simple, and easy to follow, and is brought to life by the vibrant and energetic illustrations.

A fun read for children to share with their grownups, and a great introduction to discussions and celebrations about what makes them unique!

Thank you Two Lions and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Jasmine | jazzyreadsbooks.
25 reviews5 followers
February 10, 2024
I am an Early Years practitioner and I think this book would go down well with my class of Preschoolers. Dinosaurs and animals are always a big hit and this book includes opportunities for the children to roar along with the main character. The images are clear and bright which I always find is what gets them to choose their favourites from the book corner. I also found this to flow easily meaning it can be read well aloud and funny voices can be done alongside too which makes for great group reading. This book also offers opportunities for children to think about who they are and also talk about their feelings.
Profile Image for Pam.
10.1k reviews57 followers
May 6, 2024
Brian the frog loved dinosaurs. To start the book, he discovers that frogs were alive when dinosaurs were. So, he reinvents himself as a dinosaur. Readers see how his friends love this at first but then want to tell him how he should behave as a Brianosaurus. The frogs aren't happy that he changed and don't understand why he did so don't want him in the pond. Sadly, Brian stops interacting with everyone as he is frustrated and confused. By the end, he has declared that everyone is themselves and can do as they choose without stereotypes.
Love the message to be yourself and stand up for yourself.
Profile Image for Mary.
65 reviews1 follower
January 18, 2024
Brianosaurus is a sweet children’s book about a young frog’s struggle to find, become and express himself without judgement from his family or peers. It’s a story everyone can relate to. Charming llustrations appear to be an eclectic mix of various mediums including pencil, pen, marker, crayon, and paint. It’s enjoyable for all ages, but especially young and primary grades. New readers may struggle with a few words, so this is best read together.

Thank you NetGalley and Two Lions for sending this temporary digital book for advanced review consideration. All opinions are my own
Profile Image for pineapple tofu.
329 reviews45 followers
January 24, 2024
I received an advanced copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
ROAR! When the local frog of the forest, Brian, learns that frogs were from the time of the dinosaurs, he's ecstatic. And so he becomes someone new: Briansaurus. However, the frogs and the forest animals believe Brian should act a certain way, not himself. With a bit of help along the way, Brian proves that you can be yourself no matter what. It is a delightful tale of being true to yourself and still having fun. This picture books ROARS!
Profile Image for Lisa Roppel.
296 reviews2 followers
February 14, 2024
Brianosaurus by: Ged Adamson
This is a such a delightful story! Brianosaurus teaches children that it is okay to be yourself.
The illustrations are eye catching for children and adults alike. If you are teaching with this book there is a great message, tons of print concepts to explore and the children will love it!
Expected publication date is April 2, 2024 and would be a perfect addition to any child’s personal library, classroom/school library or a public library!
Thank you to Net Galley, Two Lions and Ged Adamson for this ARC.
#Brianosaurus #NetGalley #GedAdamson #TwoLions
Profile Image for Amanda.
931 reviews4 followers
February 15, 2024
Read a review copy for NetGalley. Very cute book for kids, has a message about letting people be who they are in simple kid terms. Very inspiring for kiddos.



Spoilers:



Brian was a frog who read that frogs existed when dinosaurs did and he decides he will be a dinosaur too. After all the opinions he gets on how dinosaurs or frogs should act and what they should do, he decides he is a Me-O-Saurus. I’ve always marched to the beat of my own drum and this book definitely had that vibe. Enjoyed reading it to the Littles.
Profile Image for Alice.
5,375 reviews1 follower
May 27, 2024
3.5 stars
I read a digital copy courtesy of the publisher
When frog Brian discovers that frogs existed in the time of the dinosaurs, he decides he is a Brianosaurus. The other frogs don't understand and they think he's ridiculous. The forest animals champion him, but only when he's acting like their image of a dinosaur. Finally Brian gives them all what they want, and they're still not happy! Turns out Brian only wants to be himself and no one should tell him what he can or can't or should do.
Profile Image for Erth.
4,744 reviews
July 23, 2024
a story about being yourself, even if that means becoming a new kind of dinosaur! Brian loves dinosaurs. When he discovers that frogs were around when dinosaurs were alive, he decides that makes him a dinosaur―a Brianosaurus, in fact. At first, it’s fun. But his woodland friends think he should roar all the time, not use trampolines or read books. And the frogs think he’s making the pond look bad. So Brianosaurus decides to act exactly the way they want. The trouble is, he isn’t happy…until he decides to be himself.
Profile Image for Diane.
7,297 reviews
July 29, 2024
When Brian the frog finds out that frogs were around at the time of the dinosaurs, he’s very excited. His forest friends tell him that makes him a dinosaur, too, so he calls himself Brianosaurus. That makes the frogs mad. “You’re making the pond look bad.” But the forest animals also have strict ideas about how Brian should act if he’s a dinosaur. “Dinosaurs don’t read books.” Brian gets fed up with both sides and decides he’s going to quit worrying about what others think of him.

Good job, Brian!
12 reviews1 follower
January 21, 2024
This was a really fun book with such an important message. Teaching children and the world that is ok to be yourself and that people can't tell you what you should or shouldn't like or do based on what you look like seems to be more important every day. I think this would be a great book to teach kids about pre conceived notions and judgements and the importance of listening to their inner voice.

Thank you to Two Lions and Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Rebecca.
6 reviews1 follower
Read
January 27, 2024
This picture book, is a delightful read for young readers. The adorable illustrations bring the story to life, capturing the imagination with vibrant colours and charming characters.

The book carries a wonderful message – the importance of being yourself. The storyline is simple yet powerful, encouraging children to embrace their uniqueness. Reinforcing the concept in a way that is easy for children to grasp.
Profile Image for Cody Tylor.
71 reviews1 follower
January 30, 2024
Brianosaurus is a cute story that carries a meaningful message about finding yourself and the importance of staying true to who you are. After struggling to receive support from his peers, this cheerful and inspiring story is one for everyone to relate to. With vivid illustrations and lovable characters, this story deserves ROARing praise, and I recommend to anyone with young readers. Thank you NETGALLEY for the free ARC.
Profile Image for Guisel Berry.
193 reviews4 followers
February 9, 2024
Love the illustration to this book. I read it to my daughter and we had fun imitating the dinosaur roars. I think this is a great book to show children they can express themselves in anyway even if others may have their opinions of how one “should act” or how something “should be”. This is a great read for those who are trying to get their children to 1,000 books before kindergarten.

I received this advanced reader copy from NetGalley for an honest review.
Profile Image for Kimberly Tierney.
761 reviews4 followers
February 21, 2024
A very curious frog learns that frogs were around alongside the dinosaurs. He thinks that means he is technically a dinosaur too. Eventually, his frog family and his forest friends end up making him feel bad about wanting to be a dinosaur. Ultimately they realize they were wrong to hurt his feelings and should just let everyone be who they want to be. It is a great story about loving your friends and family and all of the things that make them unique.
Profile Image for Rachel.
222 reviews4 followers
February 28, 2024
Immensely sweet, brilliant artwork, and an absolutely perfect example of how to handle some big issues in a really accessible and child-focused way. This book could be used to talk about so many different topics with children and yet it doesn’t feel heavy or hard going - it’s a fun story with deeper meanings embedded carefully.

Honestly, it’s everything I want from a childrens book!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an E-ARC
Profile Image for Tyra.
138 reviews4 followers
March 7, 2024
This is a fun book about being yourself, it centres on a frog who decides to be a dinosaur but soon realises that everyone has a different idea of what he should be doing, this felt like I was watching a short movie with the art style and I loved it, I highly recommend it, especially for children who feel as though they don't fit in with others

I was sent this e-Arc on Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Profile Image for Heather.
71 reviews7 followers
April 28, 2024
Brianosaurus by Ged Adamson is an adorable book about Brian the frog. This book will make a great addition to my classroom library. The text layout makes it easy to read for young readers. The illustrations and graphics are nicely done. When I received the book the first thing I noticed was the quality of the book. The pages are nice and thick making it last a long time with heavy use in the classroom.

I received this book from a giveaway on Goodreads
Profile Image for Elaine Fultz, Teacher Librarian, MLS.
2,424 reviews37 followers
August 26, 2024
Be yourself lesson with a nod to societal expectations, possibly, dare I say, a subtle message about being transgender. Brian the frog dresses like a dinosaur and the forest animals support him BUT they don't want him to do anything froggy whatsoever since he's changed. But the frogs want him to ditch the dino outfit and be a normal frog. I'm not usually so nitpicky but in some of the illustrations, Brian's dino costume has arm straps (like suspenders or a vest), and some don't.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews