Title: There Are Dinosaurs in the Library

Author: A.G. Allen

Genre: Children’s Fiction / Fantasy

 

There Are Dinosaurs in the Library begins in the classroom of Mrs. Barker. The class is enthused over the class’s trip to the library, with the exception of Alyssa. Alyssa is vocal in her lack of enthusiasm and her indifference toward books. Mrs. Barker sets out to inspire Alyssa and grabs a book about dinosaurs. As Mrs. Barker commences her reading of the book, the dinosaurs appear to the student’s awe and wonder. Alyssa is floored with the arrival of each new dinosaur and her curiosity is piqued. Alyssa wants to see what dinosaur comes next if she were in charge of the book.

Author A.G. Allen brings the monumental creatures of the prehistoric period and places them in the modern-day world in this endearing read. Allen’s tale is complemented by the vivid and excellent illustration from Octavio Cordova. The brilliant illustration is comparable to the animated programs that populate current day television and elevate the narrative. Allen focuses primarily on the interactions between Mrs. Barker and Alyssa, but never to the exclusion of the story’s action.

Mrs. Barker is a teacher who cares about her class. She is animated in her enthusiasm for the class trip. Her desire to reach out to Alyssa and stoke her interest is admirable and affirming. Mrs. Barker is an inspiring character because she refuses to give up on her students. Alyssa is introduced as apathetic to the library visit. Her emotions are restrained as the class transitions from their homeroom to the library. Her evolution begins with the popping up of each dinosaur, her amazement comparable with the rest of the class.

The primary theme in the book is the power of imagination. Mrs. Barker seizes the attention of her students as she reads from each page of the chosen book. Her imagination combined with the children allow the long extinct creatures to rise and walk among the kids. The depth of imagination in each child allows nearly limitless possibilities. Alyssa represents the youth who is longing to be reached, but hasn’t allowed themselves to open up their minds.

An underlying theme is education as played out in the teacher-student dynamic. Rather than ignoring or chastising Alyssa’s lack of interest, Mrs. Barker reaches out to her. In the current state of education, this has never been so paramount. The power of imagination that is unleashed through reading a book allows an impactful connection to be made between teacher and pupil.

The book isn’t inhibited by many particular shortcomings; however, a conversation or two between Alyssa and another student would have invigorated her character even more, which would endear the reader to her further.

There Are Dinosaurs in the Library opens up an awesome portal into the past and allows it near free rein in a modern environment. The book is a brisk but highly enjoyable read. Author A.G. Allen has written a story with a broad appeal to book-loving kids as well as kids with a well-developed imagination.

 

 

This Editorial Review was written by the Book Review Directory staff. To receive a similarly honest, professional review for one of your own books, click here.