Go Back in Time With These 10 Dinosaur Books for Kids
Few things capture the imagination of children like dinosaurs. Whether it is a massive T-Rex thrashing through the jungle or a triceratops grazing on the planes, dinosaurs are highly recognizable and loved by kids of all ages. Even if you weren’t dinosaur obsessive growing up, chances are high that you knew someone who was. Dinosaurs have a near mystical appeal due to their size, stature, and the fact that they disappeared millions of years ago. All of this combines to create a perfect storm to capture the hearts and minds of children of all ages.
Because of this, dinosaur books are a perfect way to introduce kids to reading and learning about new subjects. Below, you’ll find our list of the best dinosaur books for kids and why we recommend each one. From encyclopedias to pop-up books to the perfect bedtime story, this list has something for everyone.
Top Dinosaur Books For Kids
1. The Dinosaur Book
by John Woodward
Ages: 4-10
We start with the essential encyclopedia for all things Dinosaur. John Woodward and The Smithsonian partnered to create a sprawling collection of facts, stories, and illustrations from the entire history of the dinosaurs. This is the perfect starting point for any child who loves dinosaurs and wants to learn more.
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2. Dinosaurs: A Visual Encyclopedia
by DK
Ages: 4-10
Partnering the essential encyclopedia above, we move to a more visual version of all things dinosaur. Dinosaurs: A Visual Encyclopedia highlights a vast array of dinosaurs from throughout history in stunning new detail. This book is the perfect companion for anyone who loves dinosaurs and wants to see them in new ways.
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3. Encyclopedia Prehistorica Dinosaurs: The Definitive Pop-Up
by Robert Sabuda
Ages: 3-7
Our final encyclopedia-style book on the list brings dinosaurs to life in the form of beautifully illustrated pop-ups. Full of fascinating information, humor, and intricately crafted dinosaurs, this book is one that will live on the coffee tables of dinosaur lovers forever.
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4. Colorful World of Dinosaurs
by Matt Sewell
Ages: 2-5
A wonderful blend of interesting facts and stunning artwork, Colorful World of Dinosaurs is a fascinating book for dinosaur fans. The delicate watercolor illustrations highlight what dinosaurs really looked like based on recent findings and discoveries. Readers will learn about over 40 dinosaurs from across history in a new and scientifically accurate way.
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5. Tiny T. Rex and the Impossible Hug
by Jonathan Stutzman
Ages: 3-5
Go for a journey with a lovable dinosaur as he teaches us a valuable lesson about overcoming obstacles. Follow along with Tiny T. Rex as he searches for a way to cheer up his best friend Pointy. How can he hug anyone with such short arms? There is only one way to find out.
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6. How Do Dinosaurs Say Goodnight?
by Jane Yolen
Ages: 2-3
A classic that helps even the most energetic dinosaurs fall asleep when it’s their bedtime. How Do Dinosaurs Say Goodnight is a cleverly illustrated book full of good-hearted humor that has helped children fall asleep for over 20 years. Featuring 10+ full-page pictures of popular favorites, this book will fit nicely on any child’s bedside table.
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7. Tea Rex
by Molly Idle
Ages: 3-5
A very special tea party must play host to a very special guest. Tea Rex teaches readers how to host the perfect party, from picking the right chairs to selecting the right tea to how to partake in polite conversation. Despite their size and big appetites, even dinosaurs appreciate a properly planned tea party.
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8. The Dinosaur Expert
by Margaret McNamera
Ages: 4-8
Anyone can become a dinosaur expert. Follow along as Kimmy teaches us about dinosaurs while discovering that girls can be paleontologists too. The perfect book for young girls who love science and learning.
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9. Dinosaur Lady: The Daring Discoveries of Mary Anning, the First Paleontologist
by Linda Skeers
Ages: 4-8
On the topic of paleontologists, Dinosaur Lady teaches readers about Mary Anning, whose discovery of dinosaur bones near her home changed the course of science forever. Mary defies the previously held belief that women couldn’t be scientists as she uncovers more and more discoveries that will delight and astonish.
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10. The Discovery and Mystery of a Dinosaur Named Jane
by Judith Williams
Ages: 8-12
Go from the dig site to the museum to back in time with Jane the dinosaur. Discovered by accident in the badlands of Montana, Jane was a new dinosaur different from any that had been found before and it is up to the museum and its workers to properly identify her.
Buy on AmazonWe hope you enjoyed our roundup of great dinosaur books for kids. Did you know that authors provide free children’s ebooks from time to time? At Freebooksy, we alert you when free ebooks for kids become available for your Kindle, iPad or phone. Join thousands of other parents and sign up for alerts today.