Review of "Scaly Spotted Feathered Frilled: How Do We Know What Dinosaurs Really Looked Like?" by Catherine Thimmesh

Review of

Scaly Spotted Feathered Frilled: How Do We Know What Dinosaurs Really Looked Like? by Catherine Thimmesh ISBN 9780547991344

Five out of five stars

 This is the best book about dinosaurs written at the level of the middle school person that I have ever encountered. It is an honest (re)appraisal of the appearance of the dinosaurs with explanations and demonstrations of how the experts have altered their positions over time. Basic principles of biomechanics are used to explain how they had to walk and why even the larger ones were probably fairly fast afoot.

 The growing consensus that many dinosaurs had feathers is also put forward, something that dramatically alters their appearance. Their ability to moderate their body temperature, allowing them to live in colder climates, is also explained.

 While this book is officially a junior library guild selection, it is one that will further the education of adults as well.