Dinosaur James

by Scott Taylor

A rhyming tale that introduces James, a young boy whose stubborn refusal to outgrow his penchant for dinosaur games and memorabilia has surprising results

32 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1990

About the author

There is more than one author with this name

Reviews

[Dana Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Over the years, I have heard various opinions on Dinosaur James. Some people find it too different, too edgy. But, I have always felt that they fail to give children credit for recognizing the difference between reality and fiction, particularly when children should have access to adults for explanations. In fact, it was an elementary teacher that pushed for its publication. I know that there are others out there who feel as I do.

In short, it is a wonderful rhyming, picture book fantasy. The illustrations are creative and become more interesting with each reading. The pictures themselves generate opportunities for discussion with children. It is really a piece of quirky, irreverent art.

I love it, and most children and adults with whom I've shared it have said the same. This is one that I would like to see back in publication.

[Mallory]

James has an obsession with dinosaurs. His entire life revolves only around playing with dinosaurs and learning as much as he can about them. This seems to be strange and unhealthy to the other children until one day a bully named Muggins Malone approached James at recess. The bully teased and taunted him, but James seemed unaffected. Secretly, James decided to use his love of dinosaurs helps ward off the bully on the playground. From then on, no one seemed to think that James was so strange anymore.

[K Morlando · Rating 3 out of 5]

James is unique. James is picked on by a bully. James Sets his pet dinosaur on the bully and the dino eats the bully... what kind of message is being sent here?